Frequently asked questions-

Q - I’m new to all this, where do we start?
A - If this is your first experience with the website creation process, it can all be a bit confusing and intimidating. Lots of new jargon, and many decisions to be made. You are off to a good start by reading this FAQ section.  At Artistry Webdesign, we work very closely with you every step of the design process and encourage your active participation and feedback. We even provide a development server so that you can view the progress.

Q - What is Web Hosting and do you offer that service?
A - All the content that you see when you view websites in your browser  has to be stored on a hardware device called a server. These servers are really nothing more than PC’s that have been built to perform specific Internet related tasks. Each website on the Internet is being hosted by a server located somewhere around the world. YES, we do offer hosting for our clients.

Q - What is a Domain Name (URL), and how do I get one?
A - www.something.com is a domain name (or URL - Universal Resource Locator). It’s how you identify the website that you wish to view in your browser. Since every website has to have one, (and there are millions of registered websites), many of the more desirable domain names have already been taken. The most common  are .COM, .ORG, or .NET and here in Australia .COM.AU

Q - How much does a website cost?
A - Its hard to give a hard and fast answer to this question. Its like asking how much does a house cost, there are so many variables on house prices, the same applies to a website. Our price range for previous sites have been between $2000-$20000, however the average site is usually around $3000-$5000.

Q - Can you create FLASH content?
A - Yes, but we don’t always recommend it’s use. Even though FLASH animation has become an acceptable “standard” and is well supported by the latest browsers, not every website needs it. We need to make sure that the addition of FLASH enhances your message, rather than detracting from it (sometimes more is less). However when we do use Flash, we can some up with some fantastic ideas and designs that help convey your message with more impact than a purely static page.

Q- Can we add/change content later? What do you charge for site updates?
A - Sure, that’s one of the great things about web content, you can easily make changes/updates/additions to your site’s content. We provide ongoing site maintenance for our clients (usually completing the changes within 24 hours). If the change is minor (or as a result of an error on our part), there is usually no charge.

Q- Can you redesign/modify an existing site that was created by another designer?
A - Yes this is one of our specialties. Because you have a site with text and pictures already, it gives us somewhere to start from in the redesign process.

Q- How can you make my site look GREAT!?
A - One of the first steps undertaken with you is a harmonious choice of colours from a colour wheel. Color Harmony can be defined as a pleasing arrangement of colors that engages the user and creates an inner sense of order. When a piece of artwork or web design is not harmonious, it's either boring or chaotic.

Q- How long does it take to design and build a website?
A - This, as you might imagine, depends on the size and complexity of the site. Websites that have on-line catalogs, shopping carts, databases, or specialized functionality, typically take the longest to create and test. However, we have found that most websites can usually be launched within 3-4 weeks. This time frame can also be effected by how prepared you are (how much thought have you put into your website) and how quickly you can provide us with content (pictures, text, etc.)

Q- How do I get listed on search engines?
A - Here are some of the basics.

We can optimise your site for the search engines. We will embed the proper META tags in your code (keywords, title, description) and also make sure that your keywords are located somewhere in the text portion of your home page. There are also many companies who’s sole business is to help you get high search engine rankings .

With millions of active websites (and more being created everyday), it’s not hard to understand that your website can easily be a needle in a haystack. The more unique your business is, the better your chances are of being found. It’s more realistic to make search engine visibility just one part of your advertising strategy. Think of other ways that you can get your domain name out there (business cards, brochures, news letters, newspaper/radio/tv ads, etc.)

Q- As a client, what are my responsibilities?
A - We view each project that we undertake as a partnership. Together with the client, we work through all the decisions and unique challenges that each project offers. This partnership means that you have a huge role in it’s success. We ask that you give serious thought to what it is you want designed. Make diagrams, sketches, and collect materials we will need (photos, documents, etc.) It’s also very helpful to show us examples of work that you like (or don’t like). Think about color choices, font styles, and who your intended audience is (should the work appeal to professionals, kids, seniors, male and/or female, etc.) At various points in the project we will ask you for feedback, and/or additional materials.  The closer we work together, the better the results will be. That’s why it’s so critical that you select a designer that you feel will listen to you, and that you feel comfortable communicating with.

Q- I’m not located in the Adelaide area, will that be a problem?
A - It’s always nice when we can sit down face to face and discuss your project. It gives us a chance to get to know each other a little better and allows us to discuss ideas at the same table. However,  we don’t always have that luxury. As long as we communicate on a regular basis via phone or email, things normally go smoothly. Photos and other materials can be sent to us on CD or via email.