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FAQ

Through the years, we have had many questions regarding the design process. We have compiled a list below of some of the most common questions we have been asked prior to a project.

What is web hosting, and why do I need it?
This is a great question because it's the most fundamental part of web development yet most people have no idea what it is. There is no such thing as a running website without web hosting. I can answer both of these questions with one simple analogy:

Think of your website as a magazine advertistement. You have your ad. You love it. Now you're ready for the whole world to see it in magazines across the globe. What is your next step? To contact a magazine and pay for them to run the ad for you. Right? Well that is what web hosting is to websites. You have to pay an internet service to run or "host" your new website onto the internet for the entire world to see it.

Unlike running a magazine ad which can cost thousands of dollars per month, web hosting fees start at only $4.95 a month.

We usually recommentd that you have your website hosted by the same company you registered your web address through. Otherwise technical records have to be modified and redirected which can cause a delay in placing your website onto your host server. So if you register your domain name through GoDaddy, then you should sign up for hosting through GoDaddy as well because they already have your URL. That's not to say that you HAVE to do it this way. However, it makes things more manageable to keep everything with the same company.

How do I get started with a new web site or print marketing project?
We have a very simple, full proof process to help get you on your way.

1) Consultation and Strategy: Before we begin, we need to figure out these three things:

• What your goals are
• What your demographic is
• What type of message you want to portray

It is important that we know what your overall objective is to make sure we develop a strong game plan for your marketing objective.

2) Proposal and Quote: After we establish a game plane, we submit a formal proposal and quote with a breakdown of every step.

3) The "thumbs-up": Once the proposal is approved, we submit our first invoice for a deposit to begin creating the design comps. Depending on project size, deposits are normally 50% of the overall project quote.

4) Design: Our favorite part! We present you with multiple design proofs to give you a broad range of ideas and looks. Each design is posted on a private web page for you and your associates to view. We work with you through revisions and modifications to make sure your completely in love with the look and feel of each piece.

4) Development: If working on a website, we begin the build-out and coding of your new website consulting with you along the way to ensure you are getting the functionality you need. This is also the point when we collect your web site copy, images and any files that need to be included in your project.

If a print piece, we make sure your materials are print ready with appropriate bleeds and sizing meet your printers specs and requirements.

6) The Grand Finale: Once a design is approved, we begin to either develop your web site or arrange for your print piece to go to the printer (or both). We stick with you every step of the way until your website is "live" on your hosting server or your print materials are delivered to you.

If having your web site built through a content management system, we arrange for either a phone consult or in-person meeting to show you step-by-step how to maintain your web site. We also send you a PDF on instructions how to maintain your web site so you always have it for future reference.

How long will it take for my web site or print materials to be designed?
The timescale of a design project is often dictated by both the client and how fully booked our schedule is. If you have a deadline in mind, we will endeavor to meet it for you. Please note that projects with tighter turn around times (such as seven days or less) will generally incur a "rush" fee.

Once my print materials are created and off to the printer, where do the original files go? Do I have to come to you everytime I need a reprint?
After every project, we send a copy of all print-ready files to YOU so you have them for future use. Depending on size, we either send the files to you on a CD, flash drive, or send you a link to download them directly to your computer. We also keep a copy of your files in the event of any future modifications or redesigns.

Will we need to have a meeting in connection with the web or print project?
In the majority of cases a meeting isn't necessary. Most of our projects are usually completed with contact via email and telephone; However, we always look forward to meeting our clients when necessary.

Once my web site design is completed - what maintenance service do you offer?
We fully support any website we design and are always available should you encounter any problems or require any enhancements. We offer ongoing web site maintenance to make sure your web site never gets stale. We have a very affordable monthly package if you believe you will need regular updates. Please contact us for more information on our maintenance package.

Will my web site design be "Search Engine" friendly?
All of our websites are created with search engines in mind. For more in-depth information on SEO and how it works, check our our article on SEO on our "Scoop" page.

Do you use Flash animation in your web site design?
We DO use Flash but only when required. It is important to note that there are times when Flash animations can be an asset but it would be unwise to use "Flash" to create an entire web site or even entire pages of your website. Search engines are not able to read the content of Flash and therefore any words used in animations will not be indexed by the search engines. Generally it is best to use Flash exclusively for smaller banners, advertisements, picture slideshows or demonstrations. This way the search engines will be able to index your information.

Do you redesign existing web sites?
Yes we do. We can redesign your site while retaining your corporate style. We can also redesign your site to give you a complete new image. Please contact us for more information.