When you hire a web designer, it's easy to assume they'll take care of everything.
The reality is that building a website is a partnership.
I'll guide you through the process, make recommendations and take care of the technical side of building your website. But there are also parts of the project that can only come from you, because they're about your business, not your website.
Understanding who does what helps avoid delays, keeps your accounts secure and makes the whole project much smoother.
What I'll do
As your web designer, I'll:
- Design and build your website.
- Recommend layouts and page structures.
- Create a website that's easy to use.
- Connect your website to third-party services.
- Test everything before your website goes live.
- Explain the technical bits in plain English.
- Offer advice and recommendations throughout the project.
If I think something could work better, I'll explain why and suggest an alternative. My job is to help you make informed decisions, not leave you guessing.
What I'll need from you
There are some things I simply can't decide for you because they're unique to your business.
These include:
- Your branding, including colours, fonts and logo.
- Your tone of voice.
- The content for your website.
- The images you'd like to use.
- Your products or services.
- Your pricing.
- Your business policies.
- Which payment provider, booking system or email marketing platform you'd like to use.
- Any legal documents your business needs, such as a Privacy Policy or Terms and Conditions.
I'll happily offer guidance if you're unsure, but these decisions need to come from you because they're part of running your business.
Why I'll ask you to create your own accounts
Your website may rely on a number of third-party services, such as:
- Stripe or PayPal
- Mailchimp or MailerLite
- Booking systems
- Google Analytics
- Google Search Console
- Premium WordPress plugins
Where possible, I'll ask you to create these accounts or purchase any plugins yourself. Don't worry, I'll guide you through the process and tell you exactly what you need.
There are a few good reasons for doing it this way.
You own everything
Your website is an investment in your business, so it's important that you own the accounts and licences connected to it.
If you ever need to update your payment details, renew a plugin licence or work with another web designer in the future, you'll already have full access.
Your business stays in control
Many services require you to verify your identity, enter payment details or accept their terms before an account can be used.
These are things only you can do because the account belongs to your business.
It's easier to manage in the future
If a plugin needs renewing or a payment provider asks you to confirm your details, you won't need to rely on someone else to access your account.
Everything is already in your name.
I'll still help
Creating the account doesn't mean you're on your own.
I'll recommend the right services, explain why I've suggested them and guide you through the setup if needed. Once everything is ready, I'll connect it to your website and make sure it's working as expected.
What are API keys?
Sometimes I'll ask you for an API key.
Don't worry if you've never heard of one before.
An API key is simply a secure code that allows your website to communicate with another service.
Because it gives access to your account, you'll usually need to generate it yourself. I'll tell you exactly where to find it and what I need.
Why I don't usually log into client accounts
Years ago, sharing usernames and passwords was fairly common.
Now, most platforms have security measures like verification emails, authentication apps and one-time passcodes.
I've found it's usually quicker, easier and more secure if you create and manage your own accounts while I guide you through anything I need.
It also means you'll always have full control of your business accounts after your website launches.
What happens if something stops working?
Sometimes the problem isn't the website.
For example, if someone fills in your newsletter form, I can check that the form is working and that your website is sending the information correctly.
But if your email marketing provider has suspended your account, changed its settings or is having technical issues, that's something only they can investigate.
The same applies to payment providers and booking systems.
I'll always help identify where the problem is.
If it's your website, I'll fix it.
If it's a third-party platform, I'll explain what's happening and point you towards the right support team.
What about legal requirements?
If your website needs a cookie banner, Privacy Policy or Terms and Conditions, I can add these to your website.
However, I'm not a solicitor, so I can't advise on what legal documents your business needs or write them for you.
If you're unsure about your legal obligations, it's always best to speak to a qualified legal professional.
You don't need to be technical
You don't need to understand API keys, DNS records or website hosting.
That's my job.
If I need something from you, I'll explain what it is, why it's needed and where to find it.
My aim is to make the whole process as straightforward as possible, while making sure your business stays in control of the accounts and decisions that belong to it.
A successful website is a team effort
You know your business.
I know websites.
When we each focus on what we do best, we can create a website that's built around your business, works reliably and gives you complete ownership of the tools and accounts that support it.