Advanced Marketing Techniques

Maybe you're excited about the possibility of a new webpage, or just looking to overhauling your current site. The Internet offers incredible possibility for your organization, but you need to find the right partner to bring your dreams to reality. We've put together a few things you should know before settling on a webmaster.

1. What are your goals for the website?
It's always easier to get what you want when you plan for it. Before you decide on a webmaster, you need to know what you want from your website.
Do you want customers to buy from your website? If you want to do business online, you may want to feature products in an online inventory and process orders. In that case, you need to ask your potential webmaster about their e-commerce and database capabilities.
Are you looking to provide information to a community? You may want to incorporate community management tools such as a blog or newsletter. Finding one place to handle all your internet work will keep your process streamlined.

Template websites - are you cutting costs or losing customers?
Some companies make the mistake of judging websites by cost alone. They can't justify the hiring a webmaster when they can buy a template for $50.
Think of your website in terms of cars. You can pick through the junkyard of discarded cars and have your company logo stenciled on the side of a dented '70 Chevy truck. As the car behind you chokes on black clouds of exhaust, they'll notice a faint company logo smeared with dirt and vow never to do business with that company. But you got a GREAT deal.

2. How will the website reflect my company image?
Or you could select with an eye for performance. Your website should operate as the flagship of your company, and clients will judge you accordingly.
Think of a Mercedes Benz or Jaguar, each sleek turn executed with precision and power. Your company website should conjure the same impression of excellence. Which type of business do you think your clients prefer to do business with? Which one matches your level of service?

3. Should I try to work with a one-man operation?
You may see a one-man webmaster firm as a great savings opportunity, but what are you trading for that savings? Many solo webmasters carry part-time jobs in addition to their freelance work, which means your project could suffer as their other projects intrude. They may also close their doors at any moment, leaving you high and dry.

4. Are larger firms capable of handling my project?
Larger firms have an established reputation to uphold. They have been around long enough to provide accountability, and have the resources to give your company personalized attention. They can also offer an entire suite of web
Try to locate a firm that's large enough to offer you good service, but not so large that your project will be lost in the corporate shuffle.

5. What am I looking for in a portfolio?
Diversity in design and past clients can give you a clue to their abilities. If every site looks the same, your webmaster probably won't consider your needs as important as their personal style.
Look for a good range of design and client experience to ensure your company gets personalized treatment. When you're trying to establish your company's unique value, the last thing you want is a glorified template website.

6. How can I tell if I'll be treated well?
Looking at the past is a good way to predict future results. If you want a good customer experience, you need to look at what your webmaster's past clients have to say about them. Case studies, testimonials, referrals, all offer clues as to what you're really getting into with a webmaster.

7. What happens after the site goes live?
Make sure you understand your support options for your site. Many webmasters tend to disappear after the website goes live. You may get stuck in voicemail trying to get updates, only to find that each edit comes with a hefty price tag. Ask your webmaster about their policy on updates, and see if they offer a retainer for updating your site.