How much does a website cost?

When it comes to quoting for a website project, sometimes it’s like asking “how long is a ball of string?”

During a free consultation we discuss the needs of the client and what they want from their online presence. In most cases a new design is required as the current site is dated and not that user-friendly. However, there have been a few cases where the client expectations have not been realistic with what can be achieved within their budget.

The pricing for a website depends on a number of factors:

• how many pages?

  A website with 20 pages will take longer to build and link up than a site with just 5 pages, and a website that has complex design elements or an e-commerce feature will take longer to build than a site with just text and images. Where possible be as clear as you can with what you need - think of it like building a house. Would you approach a builder for a quote and say “I’d like a house” without mentioning the number of rooms, possible layout, type of roof, etc.?

• what content is needed on each page?

  A team page of 15 people that requires links to individual emails and social media will require more work than a single profile page. The same applies to custom design elements that require coding and testing, working out the logical display of products and services so online visitors can find information quickly and easily, set up blogs / portfolio pages, embedding videos or audio, ensuring the mobile display looks just as good as on desktop, etc.

• what do you need your website to do?

  Is your site just for informational purposes, or do you want visitors to sign up / buy / register / listen or watch content? This may involve embedding third party integrations, linking to mailing lists, setting up an online store with pricing and confirmation emails, and ensuring any call to actions are clear to optimise the visitor’s experience.

• are there design elements that you would like to feature on your site?

  This is where the skills of a designer really come to the fore with customised hover effects, mega menus, gradient banners, pop-up pages, graphic design elements on images and profile pictures, etc. The sky is the limit - it just comes down to budget. I always recommend showing your designer examples of other sites that have the design features you would like so they get a better idea of what you have in mind and to see if it can be implemented within your site.

• when do you need your new site to go live?

  Some clients require a new site to go live ASAP, others are looking a little further ahead and fees will reflect if it is an urgent project. At Hot Lizard Designs we try to be as flexible as possible, and our turnaround times are much faster than most without any compromise on quality.

If you are working within a budget, be upfront. It saves time on both sides as the website designer can establish if a tailored solution can be achieved within your budget and let you know your options accordingly.

It is important to remember that your website can be the first impression of your business to an online visitor - make it count.

The price you pay is an investment as your website is working 24/7 to promote your business.