Hiring a web developer is a big decision, and the best projects start long before the first line of code. Spend an hour on this checklist and you’ll get better quotes, a smoother project and a website that actually does its job.
1. Know what the website is for
Write down the single most important action you want visitors to take: call you, book a slot, request a quote or buy a product. Every design decision should support that action.
2. List the pages you need
A simple list is enough: Home, About, Services, Contact, plus anything special such as a booking page, a shop or a blog. This is the biggest factor in price and timeline.
3. Collect examples you like
Find three to five websites you like, ideally from different industries, and note why you like each one. “Clean”, “bold”, “easy to find prices”: all useful.
4. Gather your content
- Your logo and brand colors (if you have them)
- Text for each page, even as rough notes
- Photos of your work, team or products
- Testimonials and reviews from customers
- Contact details and social links
Content is the number one reason website projects get delayed. If writing isn’t your thing, ask your developer about copywriting help early.
5. Decide on a budget range
You don’t need an exact figure, but a range helps a developer suggest the right solution instead of guessing. A clear budget often gets you a better proposal, not a more expensive one.
6. Check domain and hosting access
Make sure the domain is registered in your name and you can log in to your hosting account. If a previous developer controls these, sort it out before starting.
7. Ask the right questions
- Can I see live websites you’ve built?
- Who will I be talking to day to day?
- Will I be able to edit the site myself?
- What happens after launch if something breaks?
- What exactly is included in the price?
8. Get it in writing
A good proposal lists the pages, features, timeline, number of revisions, payment schedule and what’s not included. It protects both of you.
Ready to start?
If you’ve worked through this list, you’re already ahead of most clients. Send me your notes and I’ll come back with a clear plan and a fixed quote.
