FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Got a question? We've got an answer!
If you don't find your question here, a lot more questions and answers can be found on the page of Web Site Myths and on Your First Web Site. Or just contact us for an answer.
- What are your office hours?
- Where are you located?
- How can I contact you?
- How long does it take to make a web site?
- Why does site creation take so long if there's only a few hours of actual work?
- Can I get an estimate from you without the free consultation?
- I want to get this process moving right now. Is there an online form?
- Why are your web sites so simple looking?
- What is SEO?
- What is Web 2.0?
- Can you give me some pointers for learning to make web sites?
- What is accessibility?
- What is usability?
- What happens after the site is created?
1. What are your office hours?
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9am to 6pm, CST.
2. Where are you located?
In Garland, Texas, a suburb of Dallas, TX. However, the vast majority of the sites created have been done while never living in the same city, or state, as the client.
3. How can I contact you?
Contact information can be found on the page of contact info .
4. How long does it take to make a web site?
Much of the time frame depends on you. Custom website contracts are typically set with a 6 month site completion deadline. However, if you need your site sooner we may be able to arrange that. Site deadlines typically depend on your schedule and how quickly you can get content to us.
Template sites can be customized in a day or so depending on our current workload and if you can provide all necessary content in that time period. More complex sites, such as those selling a large number of items online, will take longer.
5. Why does site creation take so long if there's only a few hours of actual work?
Much of the information to be put on a site comes from the organization we are working for (you). This is because you know your business or non-profit better than we do. As a result, many people must add gathering web site information, such as written content, logos, or photography, to a busy schedule. By allowing several months for site creation, this gives you time to provide the information we will need to make a web site that suits you. We will guide you through the process to help you determine what information is best suited for your site.
Before a web site is begun, we will meet with you online, by phone or in person to determine your needs and desires. No estimate will be given without a consultation. An accurate estimate can not be made with guesswork. All estimates are placed in the contract.
6. Can I get an estimate from you for a custom site and price package without the free consultation?
No way, no how, not happening at all. We can't give you an accurate estimate without learning about your project. Would you ask a contractor to provide a roof repair estimate without inspecting your roof? The pricing packages give you an idea of what you will get. Changes to those components can cause prices to vary depending on what work needs to be done. These packages are customizable.
7. I want to get this process moving right now. Is there an online form?
Yes, if you are ready to get to work for web design, there is a form that you can send to get the process moving. If you want web hosting, that form is here. For all other services, please contact us using your preferred contact method.
8. Why are your web sites so simple looking?
Simplicity means the information on the site is easier to find and easier on the eyes. Too much information is confusing. Too much art makes the site take too long to load. Too much animation is distracting. All of these problems can drive away web surfers, and thus, potential customers. Also, many of our clients are on limited budgets so keeping photography and artwork to a minimum keeps web design prices down for clients.
9. What is SEO?
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. This has to do with creating a web site (or modifying an existing one) to help it obtain higher rankings in search engine results. This terms has also come to mean: any effort taken to increase website traffic. We have a short SEO FAQ and a blog that discusses SEO in more detail here.
10. What is Web 2.0?
A concept created by Tim O'Reilly in 2004, referring to the latest services, designs, and uses of the web today. Web 2.0 is just a quick way to say "what's going on with the web today". This can include uses of the web, technologies introduced, design trends, etc. There is a tendency for people to jump on this bandwagon for design look and feel. And while we do use some of the design concepts of Web 2.0, we would rather your web site not look just like everyone else's Web 2.0 site. Your site should be as unique as your business. You can read an article Janice Schwarz wrote on the subject here.
11. Can you give me some pointers for learning to make web sites?
Certainly! A page of resources is available here for budding designers. Web design training is also available.
12. What is accessibility?
Like your physical business location, your website must be accessible to all customers. In a nutshell, accessibility has to do with how accessible a web site is to those with disabilities. For example, blind web surfers use readers that read what is on each web page and provide the information verbally. If code is not set properly, these readers won't interpret the page correctly, or the information may be presented in a confusing manner. There are a great many things we must take into consideration when designing to accomodate various web surfers. Learn more at my blog and at Section508.gov.
13. What is usability?
Usability has to do with how easily a site or software is, well, USED. For example: Is it easy to navigate? Is the message clear? If so, then good job! If not, then its not very usable. Poor usability means people will spend less time using your site. Remember: all surfers love the Back button. Read more at the blog.
14. What happens after the site is created?
Your site will be submitted to search engines and added to any free directories relevant to your field. This is also the time to contact those you would like to link to your site.
What happens next is up to you. Whether you continue to use GeekArtist Web Solutions or not, make sure your site is updated at least quarterly. A web site should not be ignored after creation. Use it to communicate with your existing customers and potential customers by adding more information regarding your industry and/or business, a blog, a newsletter, coupons, advertisements of sales, etc. Continue to find relevant sites to link back to your web site. If you wish, GeekArtistcan be hired to assist with this as well. Remember: building a site without promoting it is like shooting a commercial and never airing it!
The more frequently your site is updated, the better a response you will get from your audience. There are also steps you can take to improve your traffic coming in from Google.
