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First Things First...
I want a web site. Where do I begin?
Prior to contacting a web designer we recommend you think about your individual needs and goals related to the creation of your web site. Web sites designed to inform a consumer, sell a product, or pass on general information will all have different characteristics and features. Having a basic idea of your needs is important before scheduling your first meeting.
We also suggest you visit multiple web sites and bring their addresses to your first meeting, this helps us understand the styles you prefer, what inspires you, and quickly understand your likes & dislikes.
Of course, if you feel you aren’t sure or need guidance we’re happy to help. We include some basic consulting time in our pricing, but can always expand on this to accommodate the special needs a client may have.
We use a consistent analogy that building a web site is very similar to building a home. We like to think of ourselves as the architects, builders, and finished craftsmen who will provide you with someplace your clients, friends and family will visit for years to come. The first step starts with ideas, budgets, and rough estimates.
Do I really need a contract?
Yes. We execute contracts with each of our clients as we believe in clearly defining everyone's expectations up front.
We focus on delivering exemplary customer service. We believe things like surprises, misunderstandings, and lack of communication are all contributors to a poor customer experience. While any contract can not address every possibility, we believe it's an essential part of living up to your expectations.
How long does it take you to build a web site?
There are many variables in determining the turn-around time on a web site project. From the completion of the design process, content development, and site programming, testing, and development of any custom features, there are many opportunities for delays and set-backs.
We have found that our biggest variable in this time is the commitment of the client in building their site. We have worked with clients who had the time, desire, and organizational skills and created sites in less than a week. We have also had clients who all stated they had the time, desire, and commitment, but once the project started, other things took precedence and site builds took six months or more.
At the time of contract execution, we will give you an estimated completion dated based on the availability of your content, our work load, and specific needs of your project.
Why can't my project be completed quicker?!
We are hearing this more frequently these days. Like life itself, our studio is constantly evolving and changing. As we grow, we strive continue to deliver exceptional customer service, exceed client expectations, and demonstrate a positive return on our client’s investments. Sometimes to do this, we need to slow things down a bit or delay a new project. We make every effort at producing products on a reliable time line, and truly value the responsibility our clients provide us.
While it would be easy to just hire more people, we are very passionate about our client relationships, meticulous about out work, and focused on customer service. As we grow, we turn away several talented individuals for every one designer, artist, photographer, or programmer we may utilize on our client projects. Our owners remain involved on every project.
Although you might complain we are booked for the time frame you are looking for to produce a new project, we ask your understanding and patience. If you are the owner of the project you are working on, we know you appreciate the fact that we sometimes convey “We are booked!”
Do you host the web sites yourself?
No. We do not host web sites ourselves. There are very few studios, agencies, or web site development corporations who have been successful in the design and development areas as well as able to offer comprehensive and quality hosting services. We work with large companies who offer the quality, customer service, and competitive pricing which you should expect from any hosting provider, but only get with a very few.
How much does a web site cost?
This is like asking a builder how much does it cost to build a house. Like a builder, we need to know many details of what you are looking for in your construction project. The foundation, structure, and finishing touches each have associated costs and can be modified for your individual needs or desires. This customizing creates a very diverse price range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. We no longer offer package deals, our work is done on a hourly basis. (Time & Materials) Please contact us to obtain estimated pricing for your individual project, but don't be surprised if we ask you a bunch of questions before we can give you a quote!
What if I want my deposit back?
If at any time you wish to receive your deposit back or stop stop work, it is imperative you contact us by phone and follow it up by US mail. We will halt all work upon notification.
Clients are responsible for all work completed up to the time of cancellation. If the hourly rate multiplied by the number of hours is less than the amount of the deposit, the difference will be returned to you. If the amount is greater, you will be billed for this amount.
Will you come to my office?
We do work with many clients in their place of business. (Unless other arrangements are made in advance, clients will be billed for all time beyond the initial consultation meeting.) Travel expenses may apply for those outside of Greater Binghamton. Please contact us for details.
Do you offer discounts for non-profits?
Yes, we offer discounts for bona fide non-profit organizations. We realize that these organizations often have limited resources while providing services which make our world a better place. We believe this is our way of showing our support to their cause. Please contact us for specific pricing.
Will you build my site for free or barter?
The short answer is no. We used to do some projects for free and we tried a barter once... we had many disastrous results. We believe our non-profit discounts and custom project management allows an organization serious about creating a web presence the ability to at least have a basic web site. We have worked with many organizations with limited budgets and created results which exceeded their expectations. Contact us today to see what we can do for you.
The Design / Build Process...
What is this Design / Build Process you use?
We believe the design / build process for a web site is very similar to building a house.
It starts with the architectural drawings brings thoughts, concepts, and ideas to a working document that is modified to create a basic framework and design.
Next we create some pictorial representations of your site to verify our design accurately represents YOU, YOUR NEEDS, and addresses YOUR GOALS. These "comps" are modified until you are completely satisfied as we know from experience that if you are not excited about your web site, you will not use it to its fullest potential.
Once you are excited and approve with the "comp", we build a few pages of your site for your review. We like to have you see at least two or sometimes three pages up and working, seeing the actual colors, backgrounds, navigational systems, etc. After any last minute adjustments, we then take your content and build your site.
The last step before we launch your new site is a quick review or "walk through". We have you look at your entire site and provide us with any last minute changes in your content as well as verifying we are representing your throughout the site in a way you approve. If needed, a "punch list" is made for us to complete any last minute work and upon your acceptance we launch your site for the world to see.
Do you use templates?
No. While we believe and encourage clients to show us examples of sites and or web pages with inspire them, we do not copy the work of other designers nor do we utilize standard stock templates. All of our work is customized and although me might use different components from a variety of sources, you will end up with a design custom build to exceed the needs of your project.
What tools or software do you use to design and build web sites?
Our Studio is equipped with state of the art technology, including computers, high resolution monitors, scanners, printers, digital cameras, and graphic tablets.
Each site we build is custom and each requires a little different approach. We use regularly use the following software packages; Adobe CS, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Flash, Microsoft Office, Movavi, ProShow, PTGui & IPSwitch. We also have several other titles which may be used depending on the project.
We review all of our work before final submission in many browsers including; Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, and Goggle Chrome.
One thing that is a little unique to our industry is we operate in an "apple free environment" which while our competitors think we are "bananas!", this continues to be a great decision for us!
Content, Illustrations & Imagery...
What is content?
Content is the text, photos, graphics, video, and anything else you see on a web page. When you think about building a web site and answer the question "What do I want people to see?" this is content. Going back to our analogy, content is the fixtures, appliances, or furnishings of your home.
Like a house, most clients have at least an idea of what they want. If you have not thought about this... it's an important part of a successful site. If you don't yet have your content, start writing, clipping photos, articles, etc. and organizing them so you can have your own content. (Remember to be careful with the use of copyrighted materials.) And lastly, we don't want you to feel all alone... we can help you with the editing or final organization of your site content.
Will you create it for me?
On occasion we do work with clients who either do not have any content, need help organizing it, or need guidance in focusing their web site. We are happy to assist where needed, however because more of our time is required, these clients often realize a larger expenditure in comparison to those who provide us "copy ready content".
Are graphics and photos extra?
Unless specifically specified in a client contract, graphics and photos are not included in web site projects. Clients are not only responsible for obtaining their own photos and graphics, but if they are from any source other than the client’s own work, the client is also responsible for all legal releases, copyright concerns, or special permission requirements.
Do you do custom graphics and illustrations?
Yes, we can develop your custom graphics and/or illustrations.
What are stock photos?
Stock photos are for people who desire specialized photos and do not have their own, or legal access to other photos from other artists. From a few to several hundred dollars per photos, clients may purchase the rights to photos for use on their projects. If you require stock photos, contact us to discuss your needs so we can make sure you are purchasing compatible works that will not only function on your site, but also maximize your return on investment.
Can you get stock photos for me.
Yes, we obtain stock photos for clients on a regular basis. We will complete the page(s) where the photos will be placed and then select and place photos with a water mark on them for client approval. Once the photos are approved, we then purchase them on behalf of the client. The client is responsible for the costs of the photo plus the cost of our time for selection and configuration/editing required for placement into the client's project.
What if I want to use my own photos or graphics?
When possible, we will make every attempt to utilize a client's own photos or graphics. Having your own photos and/or graphics will ultimately save you money. However it is important to note that much of the content on the web today is copyrighted. Client's are solely responsible for all required copyright permissions to use other's content on their own site.
After the Build...
Can I manage my own site after you finish?
Yes! Each and every site we build is designed to be managed by clients on their own. Like a home, your site will need regular attention and maintenance or it will soon loose it's value and your friends will stop visiting.
There are some basic requirements for you to manage your site… You’ll need a computer, an internet connection, and some basic software to get you started. While we offer this to each client, a majority of our clients (almost all of them actually) keep us on board to maintain their web site at a nominal cost in comparison to the investment of hardware, software, training, and actual time it will take you to manage your site.
What does maintenance cost?
Updates to your site and/or regular site maintenance is billed at a set hourly rate in 15 minute increments. We do not believe in charging one hour minimums as clients will often hold their updates until they think they can fill an hour and thus some of the content may be outdated before it is posted to their web site.
What if I need additional support?
We offer clients many support options. From free initial project consultations to ongoing support at our hourly rates, we can provide you with the customized support you require. We have experience in educating clients about the web, their site, updating their site, and many other areas within our realm of expertise. This support is available during normal business hours, or by appointment outside of normal business hours.
Other Questions...
What is Site Migration?
Site Migration is moving a complete web site from one web hosting company to another. This can be done for various reasons, but most often occurs during establishment of a new hosting account, or in preparation of a significant site revision.
I need a logo, can you do that?
We welcome the opportunity to design a custom logo for your business, organization and/or campaign. We've had great success at producing both static and animated/flash logos for various projects. Check out our identity page for some examples of our work.
Can you take photos for me?
Yes! Please contact us to discuss your individual needs and how we can exceed them in this area.
Can you do my graphic design work?
Yes! From logos to business cards, signs to packaging, we have the skills, staff, and relationships with many resources to get your job done from start to finish. Have a special project coming up... contact us today to see how we can be a part of it and how we strive to maximize our client's return on investment.
How much does logo or custom graphics work cost?
All specialty work, including graphic design, graphics, photography, photo editing, etc. is billed at a set hourly rate in 15 minute increments.
Can we hire you for just maintenance or an upgrade on our existing site?
Yes. We offer a broad range of services from new web site design to development, and maintenance of existing sites. We have acquired many clients as a result of our quick turn around time with site updates and revisions. If your content is outdated before your current web design team can get it up on your site... Contact us! We can Help.
Do you keep files from long ago?
We do our best to retain client files and projects. At some point files may be archived and/or deleted at our discretion. Please be advised that NYS considers digital media being placed on a disc to be tangible property and thus may change the tax status of your particular project. Contact us for details.
When are you available?
We are available by phone during normal business hours. (Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5:00pm) When we are out of the office or unavailable to answer, our phones do forward to a member of our management team's phone. Please leave a message and we will return your call at our earliest opportunity.
Outside of normal business hours, we ask that you please be considerate of our personal time. Again, our phones are forwarded to a member of management team's phone to address emergencies or situations which can not wait until the next business day. If available, they will answer immediately or will respond to a voice mail at their earliest opportunity. If the request is for something non-urgent, please note your request will be scheduled to be handled during normal business hours.
If your question was not addressed, or you need more information, please Contact Us!
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