“Hey everyone, our competitors just launched a new website and it looks great. We haven’t updated ours since 2010, and I think we’re losing leads because of it.”

Does that conversation sound familiar? Many industrial B2B companies have a website, but unfortunately, they haven’t done much to update it. The site doesn’t get much traffic, and those who do visit the website can’t find the information they need. So, they go elsewhere.

You know you can’t afford to miss out on qualified leads, especially now, so you decide to invest in building a new or updated website. But where do you start?

Before you start researching web development companies, let’s go over what you should look for in an agency. Because the last thing you want is to make a large investment in a website that doesn’t meet your needs or expectations.

1. Credibility & Experience

Do not…I repeat, do not…hire someone’s friend/family member/bored neighbor who dabbles in building websites. It might seem like a cheap and convenient option, but trying to save money in the beginning will only cost you more in the end.

Why? Because they most likely will not have the experience needed to build a site that ticks all the boxes for functionality, user experience (UX), search engine performance, and security. If you want the most out of your investment, you need to hire a professional website development company.

Look for a company with case study examples and a strong portfolio of website examples from various industries. Do the sites look like something you want for your company? Remember, your website is a virtual storefront that should help sell your products or services!

2. Transparency in Pricing & Processes

You hire a web design company, and then, halfway through your project, they have a few surprises for you. Maybe it’s a cost increase or news that they can’t add that functionality you wanted. Or they tell you the website will take months longer than expected.  Worst case scenario, you get through the entire project, and your new website falls miles below your expectations, so you need to find a new company to “fix” everything.

Sadly, these things happen all the time. Doing your due diligence before hiring a web developer can help prevent these issues and more. Ask questions and get things in writing. Check out company reviews and make sure you’re working with a company that’s transparent in their communications.

3. Different Platform Options

Options! You need them. The website development company you choose should offer options for a CMS (content management system), ecommerce, RFQ site, or something that combines these functionalities. If you’re an OEM and they say, “well, we usually build ecommerce platforms but can make something work for you,” please run away as fast as you can. Clearly, you will not get what you need from that company.

Make sure you ask about responsive design as well. You need a website that maintains its functionality and provides a good user experience regardless of the device the customer uses.  Remember, not everyone sits at a desktop or laptop while they work.

4. Functionality & Customizations

You know those popular template platforms that let you build a “customized” website? Stay away from those, please. Yes, those platforms are inexpensive and make it easy to create a site quickly. But they’re not nearly as effective as something built from the ground up.

The biggest issue is that template website platforms rely on plug-ins that can break and, if not updated regularly, create security risks for you site. Nobody needs that headache, right?

Look for a website development company that builds its functionalities and customizations into your site code. I won’t get too technical here but believe me when I say it makes a difference, especially if you’re looking for features like ERP integration, part builders, and 3D/CAD functionalities.

5. Full-Service

Some companies only offer web design and don’t have a marketing department on staff. Not a big deal since you just need a website, right? Wrong!

Marketing actually plays a huge role in website design and development. There are all these little technical details behind the scenes that affect user experience and help your website perform well in search engines. After all, having a shiny new website isn’t worth it if new customers can’t find you and experience its awesomeness!

Full-service agencies also have copywriters on standby to help you craft search engine optimized, conversion-driven content for your site. Having well-written content and nice visuals also helps you build credibility—looks do matter!

Grow Your Business with A Professionally Designed & Built Website

Hiring a professional company to build or redesign your website is a significant but worthwhile investment when it’s done well. Ecreative’s collaborative approach to the website design process ensures you know exactly what to expect from the beginning, no surprises. Send us a message to let us know how we can help your business get the website you deserve