A new website is one of the bigger marketing investments a small business makes, and it is one you will live with for years. Most proposals look alike at first glance. The differences show up after launch, when you need a change made, your rankings drop, or you want to move on.
These nine questions will help you compare Kingston web designers on the things that matter. If you are hiring for more than a website, our 10 questions for choosing a marketing agency cover the bigger picture.
1. Who owns the domain, the content and the design?
Your domain should be registered in your business's name, with you able to log in. Ask who owns the written content, the photos and the design, and what happens if you leave. A good answer is short and in writing.
2. What platform will you build on, and can I edit it myself?
WordPress, Shopify, Duda, Squarespace and Wix all have their place. What matters is that the platform suits your business (an online store has different needs than a clinic) and that someone on your team can update hours, photos and text without calling the designer. Ask for a short walkthrough of the editor before you sign.
3. Will the site be built for search?
A beautiful site nobody finds is an expensive brochure. Ask how the designer handles page titles, headings, one page per main service, location pages for the towns you serve, and a Google Business Profile link.
If you are replacing an existing site, ask for their redirect plan. Without one, a redesign can wipe out years of rankings overnight. Our guide to redesigning without losing your Google rankings explains what to check.
4. Is it accessible?
Under Ontario's accessibility law (AODA), many organizations must have websites that meet WCAG 2.0 Level AA. Even when it is not required, an accessible site is easier for everyone to use. Ask how the designer checks colour contrast, alt text, headings and keyboard navigation. Our AODA guide covers who needs to comply.
5. How fast will it load on a phone?
Most of your visitors will arrive on a phone, often on mobile data. Ask how the designer handles image sizes and page speed, and if they test with Google's Core Web Vitals. Our plain-language guide to website speed explains what those scores mean.
6. Who writes the words and takes the photos?
This question causes more delays than any other. Some designers expect you to supply all the text and images. Others write the copy and shoot on site. Find out which before you compare prices, because the cheaper quote may leave the hardest work with you.
Strong websites start with the words. When the copy is clear, the design has something to support.
7. What does it cost, and what happens after launch?
Ask for a quote that lists what is included: number of pages, copywriting, photography, forms, integrations, revisions and training. Then ask about the ongoing costs: domain, hosting, platform fees, security updates and support for small changes.
A low build price with an unclear care plan often costs more over three years than a higher, all-in quote.
8. What is the timeline, and what do you need from me?
A typical small business site takes several weeks to a few months. Ask for the steps, who approves each one, and what the designer needs from you and by when. Our checklist of what your website needs before it launches is a good way to see if anything is missing.
9. Can I see sites you have built and talk to those clients?
Look at live sites, not just screenshots. Click through them on your phone. Then ask to speak with one or two past clients about how the project went and how support has been since. You can see our recent work on our projects page.
Red flags to watch for
- The domain will be registered in the designer's name.
- No mention of search, redirects or accessibility.
- A quote with no list of what is included.
- No plan for who maintains the site after launch.
- Pressure to sign before you have seen live examples.
Web design questions, answered
How much does a website cost in Kingston?
It depends on the number of pages, features like booking or online sales, and who writes the content. Ask every designer for an itemized quote so you can compare like with like.
How long does a new website take?
Several weeks for a small site, longer for stores or sites with many pages. Content is usually what sets the pace.
Should I hire a local web designer?
A local designer can meet in person, visit for photos and knows the area your customers search in. That matters most when your business serves Kingston and the towns around it.
Do you build websites outside Kingston?
Yes. We design and build sites for businesses across Eastern Ontario, from Cobourg and Port Hope to Perth and Ottawa.
Looking for Kingston web design?
We plan, write, design and build websites made to be found, easy to use and easy to update, then look after them once they are live. See our Kingston web design services or book a free discovery call.
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