5 Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Web Design & Development Company

1. Past Performance

One of the most reliable indicators of future success is past performance.

Before choosing a web development company, take time to review their track record and ask yourself:

• Have they built websites similar to what you need, whether that’s a simple brochure site or a complex web application?
• Have they successfully worked with the technology stack you want to use, or can they recommend widely supported technologies that won’t lock you in?
• Do they have satisfied clients who are willing to vouch for their work?
• Most importantly: have they delivered real business results for past clients? Look for outcomes such as higher Google rankings, increased leads, improved conversions, or measurable revenue growth—ideally aligned with your own goals.

2. User-Focused & Design-Led Thinking

Good design isn’t just about aesthetics. A well-designed website should also be simple, intuitive, and easy to use.

When reviewing a company’s past work, don’t just judge how the sites look. Click through them. Pay attention to usability, clarity, navigation, and the small details that make an experience feel polished.

The right web company prioritizes usability first, while still presenting your brand professionally and effectively online.

3. Ongoing Website Performance & Technical Support

Once your website is live, the work isn’t finished.

Months down the line, you’ll want to know that your web company can help you measure performance, improve results, and resolve any technical issues—big or small.

Websites that achieve real business goals require ongoing monitoring, optimization, and support. A website should be treated as a living asset, not a one-off project.

4. Strong Processes & Project Management

Ask potential web companies to walk you through their process. It should be clear, structured, and cover all essential stages of building a website, including planning, design, development, testing, and launch (see this list).

Strong project management is critical to delivering a website on time, within budget, and to a high standard. Make sure you clearly understand:

• What you are responsible for
• What the web company will handle
• Where third-party services may be involved

A good web company also understands its own strengths and limitations. Be cautious of small teams or freelancers who claim to offer every service in-house—from design and development to content, marketing, photography, and video. More often than not, they excel in only a few of these areas.

5. Pricing Transparency & Certainty

Look for a company that offers clear and predictable pricing.

Most projects involve an upfront cost for building the website, along with ongoing monthly fees for hosting, support, performance optimization, or marketing. Make sure you understand exactly what you’re paying for.

If you’re new to commissioning websites, try to avoid open-ended hourly billing. Fixed or clearly scoped pricing provides far more certainty and helps prevent unexpected costs later on.