How to choose a web designer

Points to check

• Ask the designer to explain one similar project from discovery to launch, including how they handled copy, revisions and mobile usability. A polished screenshot cannot show how the site was delivered.
• Confirm whether you can edit the site, which accounts you will own and what support is available after launch. Put these points in the written proposal.
• If search traffic already matters, ask for a plan to retain valuable URLs and test redirects before replacing the current site.

Start with the brief

Write down the business outcome you need, the people you want to reach and any practical constraints. This makes it easier to judge whether a suggested service or platform is appropriate.

Define the goal of the website before reviewing portfolios. Ask each provider to explain how their process will support that goal.

Compare the work, not just the headline

Ask providers to describe the deliverables, who will do the work, what they need from you and when the result will be reviewed. A written proposal should distinguish included work from optional extras.

• Page structure, content and visual design
• Mobile layouts, accessibility and launch checks
• Hosting, ownership and handover arrangements

Questions worth asking

• Who owns the finished website and accounts?
• What content and revisions are included?
• What happens after launch?

Compare relevant work, ownership, content responsibilities, accessibility and launch support.

Make a fair comparison

Use the same brief for each provider, request any missing details in writing, and consider ownership and ongoing support alongside price. You can use the free worksheet to record the answers.