How do you know you are getting a good deal when you hire a web developer? The only advise that can be given is “Caveat emptor…buyer beware!” Like buying a new car or a used computer everyone is not as honest as they should be and before you begin shelling out money for a website there are a few things you need to know.
1. Make sure your web developer runs a usability test. The test will evaluate the ease with which customers navigate through your website.
2. Tell your web developer that you would like your website accessible for those with disabilities or handicaps.
3. Insist that your website is compatible with all browser types. Your web developer should design your web site to be compatible with Internet Explorer 4.0 and above,
Netscape Navigator 4.0 and above, Mozilla, and Macintosh Browsers.
4. The web developer you select should use web safe colors, so the color you select is the same as the color that appears on your site.
5. Meta Tags are vital. Every web developer should use Meta Tags, the codes behind the website page that give pertinent information, (website description, keywords, instructions, etc.) to search engine robots.
6. Your web developer should design the website to display properly on all screen sizes. (800 by 600 pixels and 1024 by 768 pixels are the most common screen size, while 1280 by 768 pixels, 1280 by 1024 pixels are the least common)
7. Insist your web developer go over in detail their contract as well as the exact details of your needs, before they begin working on your site.