The cost of building a website for your business can vary depending on several factors such as the design, the features and functionalities you want on your website, the platform or technology of choose and ongoing maintenance and support costs.
When it comes to web design, I often compare it to choosing a car. You can opt for a functional and basic model like a Fiat Punto, which will get you from point A to point B reliably. However, if you want to make a statement, stand out from the crowd, and leave a lasting impression, you might consider something more akin to a Porsche. Like the Porsche, a well-designed website not only serves its purpose effectively but also captivates visitors with its speed, elegance, and ability to turn heads. Just as a sleek sports car commands attention on the road, a visually stunning and user-friendly website grabs attention in the digital landscape, setting your business apart and leaving a memorable impression on visitors.
With every business we engage with, our approach is straightforward: we tailor a quote that precisely aligns with your specific needs. We design options and prices based on the features and functionalities essential to your narrative, ensuring that you receive a clear understanding of what you’re investing in. Our goal is to empower you with choices that not only meet but exceed your expectations, providing a solution perfectly suited to your business objectives.
Costs you should be aware of before designing your website.
Prior to developing a website, there are several fundamental steps that are essential to in order to GO LIVE. Firstly, securing a domain name is crucial, followed by selecting a reliable website hosting provider.
Additionally, it’s imperative to consider obtaining an SSL certificate for enhanced security if you are building a shopping cart website, typically service-based websites bundle these in with your hosting.
While it’s possible to launch a website with minimal investment, prioritising essential components is key to optimizing its performance. Aim for a website that not only attracts visitors but also encourages engagement and instils confidence through its design and security measures. Ultimately, your website should serve as a trusted hub for information and transactions, fostering positive interactions with your audience.
There are two types of website. Service or ecommerce based websites.
Service-based websites serve as the online gateway for customers to explore your business services, acting as a digital shop front that showcases the essence of your services. Often, these websites become the primary destination for potential customers after discovering your business through platforms like Google Business Page (GBP).
They provide a comprehensive overview of your services, offering valuable insights and encouraging visitors to engage further.
On the other hand, ecommerce websites open the door to a dynamic online marketplace, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your physical products into a virtual shopping environment. With features like customizable shopping carts and secure payment gateways, these platforms empower visitors to browse, select, and purchase products with ease. From placing orders to facilitating smooth delivery processes, ecommerce websites streamline the entire purchasing journey, enhancing customer satisfaction and driving sales growth.
Whether you’re showcasing services or selling products, having a professionally designed website tailored to your business needs is essential in today’s digital landscape. It serves as a powerful tool to attract, engage, and convert visitors into loyal customers, ultimately contributing to the success and growth of your business.
How much does a Service Based Website cost?
Our billing structure is primarily based on the number of pages required for your website.
For a standard package comprising up to 5 pages – typically including the Home Page, About Us, Services, Privacy Policy, and Contact Page – the cost ranges from £1,000 to £1,500. This package offers a solid foundation for presenting essential information about your business and establishing an online presence.
However, the complexity arises when additional features are desired, such as showcasing case studies or maintaining a blog section for regular updates. It’s crucial to recognize that search engines like Google prioritize actively updated websites in their rankings. Just like a physical storefront, your website serves as a window into your business – regular updates signal activity and relevance, enhancing your visibility in search results.
For more extensive service-based websites spanning 5 to 10 pages, prices start from £3,000. The final cost is determined by various factors, including the number of pages required and the level of design sophistication needed to resonate with your target audience.
Throughout the project, our focus remains on aligning every decision with your goals and objectives. We leverage our expertise to provide tailored recommendations that optimize your website’s performance and impact. Our commitment is to empower you with the knowledge and guidance necessary to make informed choices, ensuring that your website reflects the essence of your brand and effectively engages your audience.
How much does an eCommerce Website Design cost?
e-commerce websites, often referred to as Shopping Cart websites, provide payment services directly on your website However, integrating this functionality securely incurs higher costs compared to service-based websites. The choice of platform significantly influences these costs. For instance, Magento stands out as a premium platform, offering extensive functionality capable of handling large product catalogues and transactions. Conversely, platforms like WooCommerce and Shopify offer robust cart engines, requiring less bespoke development.
To determine the most suitable platform for your needs, we’ll ask you some questions:
- How many categories do you need on the header menu of your website?
- How many products will be added to the website?
- Do you require variations or product attributes adding?
- Apart from the Shopping Cart functionality what additional requirements does the site need for example Abandon Cart?
- Do you need BOGOFFs, Quantity Discounts added?
- Do you have suitable images for your products or video?
- Do you have special shipping rules based either on weight or volumetric?
- What payment providers do you require?
- Do you need integrations to MailChimp, ActiveCampaign or GetResponse?
These are just some of the main questions you will be asked before we can put together a quote.
eCommerce websites start from £2,595 as we explained above the price will increase based on the number of products and the functionality that is required. Why? because the time it takes to build in this level of detail.
aIn virtually every industry worldwide, the adage holds true, but nowhere is it more evident than in Website Design. Our field is teeming with freelancers, “your wife’s best friends son who has just completed a degree in IT” who all profess to being able to build websites. Whilst its true these solo designers may offer lower rates, they often lack the breadth of skills and depth of knowledge that an established agency can provide, the result a website that is put together with masking tape and something that may not be fast or efficient for your business. Not to mention that if its WordPress or Magento it will require updates to ensure it stays secure.
Partnering with a design agency that proudly touts 20 years of industry experience means you’re investing in far more than just design aesthetics. You’re gaining access to a treasure trove of expertise honed over decades, a team equipped with diverse skill sets tailored to meet your project’s unique demands, and a track record of success that speaks volumes about our commitment to excellence.
By choosing our agency, you’re not just getting a design solution; you’re embarking on a journey marked by meticulous attention to detail and strategic foresight. Our seasoned professionals don’t just create; they craft experiences that resonate with your audience and drive tangible results for your business. With us, your project isn’t merely executed; it’s elevated to its fullest potential, ensuring every aspect aligns seamlessly with your objectives.
Remember your website is the digital shop front Replacing the traditional brick-and-mortar shop
Similar to a physical storefront on a bustling high street, your website requires regular ‘window dressing’ and seasonal updates. Google’s algorithms are keenly aware of stagnant websites, often penalizing them by lowering their search rankings compared to dynamic, frequently updated websites. Thus, it’s crucial to invest in a website that allows for easy updates without relying on continuous paid development services.
Opting for cheaper freelancers may seem cost-effective initially, but it often leads to ongoing expenses and limited flexibility. Some freelancers intentionally design websites that necessitate their continued involvement for updates, resulting in added costs down the line. Investing in a website solution that empowers you to make updates independently ensures long-term cost-effectiveness and agility in adapting to market changes.
Our eCommerce website designs see examples of work we’ve developed websites that are achieving remarkable conversion rates, driving substantial sales for our clients.
In addition to providing top-tier website design, we have a knowledgable team of designers and developers who synergize to bring your project to life. Our company includes some of Birmingham’s finest talents in both design and development, complemented by a dedicated Project Manager who ensures seamless project execution. What sets us apart is our integrated approach: not only do we excel in website creation, but we also boast one of the most dynamic in-house Digital Marketing Departments to amplify your online presence even further.
But our commitment doesn’t end with the launch of your website. Far from it. We stand by you with ongoing support. Our HelpDesk Department becomes your go-to resource for any website-related inquiries post-launch. Moreover, you’ll have the invaluable expertise of our Commercial Manager, Wave White, at your disposal. Wave not only provides guidance on optimizing your website but also offers strategic insights to maximize your online impact. With us, you’re not just getting a website; you’re gaining a dedicated team committed to your success every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a Website Cost?
The cost of a website can vary, depending on several factors, including its complexity, functionality, design, and the expertise of the professionals involved.
Here’s a breakdown to help you estimate costs:
Domain Name: Typically, this ranges from £10 to £20 per year, depending on the domain registrar and the domain extension (.co.uk, .com, .net, .org, etc.).
Website Hosting: Hosting costs can vary depending on the type of hosting (shared, Cloud, VPS, dedicated), the hosting provider, and the level of resources required. Shared hosting plans can start from as low as £5 to £10 per month, whilst dedicated hosting can range from £80 to £200+ per month.
Web Design and Development: If you hire a professional web designer or developer, costs can vary based on their experience, location, and the complexity of the project. Simple service based websites may cost anywhere from £895 to £5,000, whilst more complex websites with custom features, e-commerce functionality, or integration with third-party services can range from £5,000 to £50,000 or more if more customisation is needed.
SSL Certificate: Depending on the type and validity period, SSL certificates can cost anywhere from £10 to £200 or more per year.
What is custom website development?
Custom web development offers a bespoke solution perfectly aligned with your brand, product, or company ethos, providing a distinct advantage over competitors. Tailored to your specific target audience, these websites are crafted to resonate deeply with users, fostering stronger connections and engagement. An example of a website that is fully customised and built from the ground up is Puppies.
Every aspect, from the design layout to fonts and colours, is meticulously designed to elevate your online brand presence and leave a lasting impression on visitors. By integrating unique visual elements and intuitive user experiences, custom websites not only captivate attention but also reinforce brand identity and credibility.
Furthermore, the flexibility of custom development allows for seamless integration of advanced features and functionalities tailored to your business objectives.
In essence, custom web development isn’t just about building a website; it’s about crafting a digital experience that embodies your brand’s essence, resonates with your audience, and sets you apart in a competitive online landscape.
Should my website be mobile responsive?
Absolutely, Google claims 50% of all web traffic is visited via a mobile. So ensuring that your website is mobile responsive is crucial! Here’s why mobile responsiveness is essential:
User Experience: A mobile responsive website adjusts its layout and content to fit the screen size of various devices, providing users with an optimal viewing experience. This enhances usability and accessibility, making it easier for visitors to navigate your site, consume content, and engage with your brand.
SEO Benefits: Search engines like Google prioritize mobile friendly websites in their search results. Having a mobile responsive website can improve your search engine rankings and drive more organic traffic to your website.
Increased Engagement: Mobile responsive design encourages visitors to spend more time on your site and explore its content. By delivering a seamless and enjoyable experience across devices, you can increase user engagement and reduce bounce rates.
Broader Audience Reach: With a mobile responsive website, you can reach a wider audience, including users who primarily access the internet through mobile devices. This is particularly important if your target audience includes people on the go or in regions where mobile internet usage is prevalent.
Future-Proofing: As mobile technology continues to evolve, having a mobile-responsive website ensures that your online presence remains relevant and effective regardless of new device formats or screen sizes that emerge in the future.
In summary, investing in mobile responsiveness is essential for providing an excellent user experience, improving search visibility, increasing engagement, reaching a broader audience, and future-proofing your website. It’s a critical aspect of modern web design that shouldn’t be overlooked.
What technologies are commonly used in website development?
This question delves into the programming languages, frameworks, content management systems (CMS), and other tools commonly used in website development, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, WordPress, Laravel etc.
How do I ensure my website is secure?
This question addresses website security measures, including SSL certificates, secure coding practices, regular updates, backups, and protection against malware and cyber threats. Please contact us for more information.
What is SEO, and how can it be integrated into website development?
This question discusses search engine optimization (SEO) techniques and strategies for improving website visibility and ranking in search engine results pages (SERPs), such as optimizing content, metadata, site structure, and mobile responsiveness. Please contact us for more information.