Frequently Asked Questions about Web Design

Frequently Asked Questions

While many web sites share a common thread, each is unique unto itself. Therefore it stands to reason that the questions which arise during the course of design are somewhat different for each project. The list of Frequently Asked Questions listed below is not intended as a comprehensive answer to all your potential questions. Rather, it serves to answer a few of the more common queries and give you, if you have not experienced it yet, a feel of what is entailed during the creation of a web site.

Q. I have no idea what I want!
A. No problem! That is what we are here for, to assist you in each and every step of the process including determining exactly what your web site should do. We start off by establishing the function of the web site and once that is finalized then we proceed onto what is should look like. Our design philosophy of "Form follows function" means that a web site should be practical first and foremost, with graphics and layout supporting the function.

Q. How long does a web site take to design?
A. As stated earlier, each web site is unique. Once we both have a clear understanding of exactly what it is we are about to create, we can provide you with definite timelines. Many variables come into play when estimating design time. The size of the site in terms of number of pages, complexity and volume of graphics, special features such as interactive forms to name but a few. As a guide line, an average web site may take 2-8 weeks to complete in full. Deadlines are a harsh reality of life and business. While we will adhere to deadlines if essential to the project, we urge our clients to not rush the design phase if at all possible.

Q. I am not connected to the Internet. Can I still have a web site?
A. Yes you can but with certain limitations. You don't have to be connected yourself to the Internet for the world to see you but if you wish to receive email you will need to have a connection to the Internet and a tangible email address to receive messages. And besides, connection to the Internet allows you to go online and see how wonderful your site looks!

Q. I am not located anywhere near you. Is that a problem?
A. Not in the least. In fact very few of our clients are close by and several are in other countries! Information may be forwarded to us either electronically i.e. email attachments, FTP, or through the mail. Once we have received your information and commenced design, your web site will be posted to a secure address on the internet where you can go and review progress each and every step of the way.

Q. What is the procedure for retaining your design services?
A. To begin with, we will determine between us exactly what your requirements are. Once established, we will provide you with a quotation for the projected work together with a time frame for designing your web site. Once we have both agreed upon all the details. We will be ready to commence. A deposit of 50% of the total design cost will be required from you up front, with the remaining balance being equally broken up on a monthly basis, depending upon the project time estimate. For example, if your site is to cost $2000 and the estimated time to complete is two months, a deposit of $1,000 up front will be required with $500 due after the first month and $500 at the end of the second month. During the course of designing your web site, as mentioned earlier, we will be posting work on the internet in a secure area so you may view, monitor and provide input as we progress. There should be no big surprise at the end!

Q. What form of payment do you accept?
A. We accept certified cheques, money orders and corporate cheques only. For clients located outside of the US, we request funds in US Dollars.

Q. How can I add or update the information on my web site?
A. We can provide web site maintenance to your site in one of two ways. Either we can schedule revisions on a fixed time frame or we can do this only when you require it. No matter which way, the cost of maintaining your web site is based on time, which is charged out at US$50 per hour. It is strongly advised that you consider this and budget for maintenance as there is nothing worse than to go to a web site and find information which is months or even years out of date. It does not reflect well on the company!

2Hot Designs
El Cajon, CA 92020
Tel: (619) 442-8349