Most custom websites for small businesses take three to six weeks to build. The process involves a 15-minute call, a fixed price agreement, and a series of steps to launch the site.
What happens in the first week of building a custom website?
The first week typically involves a 15-minute call to discuss the project scope, followed by a fixed price agreement and a simple online agreement to sign. After that, the client receives a portal login to send over their logo, photos, and answers to questions that help with the build. This is also a good time to discuss any specific requirements, such as online booking or member areas, and to clarify the project timeline. For example, if you're a law firm, you may need a secure client portal or a payment gateway, which can be factored into the project plan from the start.
How long does it take to design and build the website?
Once the client has sent over their materials, the design process begins. The homepage design is usually approved before the full build, which can take around two to four weeks, depending on the scope of the project. The launch is then handled end-to-end, including setting up the domain, DNS, and email records. For instance, if you're a contractor, your website might include a portfolio of your work, a services page, and a contact form. Thornwood Digital will work with you to create a custom design that reflects your business and meets your needs. They'll also ensure that the site is optimized for search engines and that it's easy for visitors to find what they're looking for.
What usually slows down a custom website project?
Content, photos, and feedback from the client can slow down a project. It's essential to have a clear plan and timeline in place to keep the project on track. Providing content and photos in a timely manner and responding promptly to feedback requests can help ensure the project stays on schedule. For instance, if you're waiting on a photographer to take photos of your work, it's a good idea to schedule the photo shoot as early as possible to avoid delays. You can also prepare your content in advance, such as writing the text for your services page or gathering testimonials from satisfied customers.
Can I launch my custom website by a hard date?
Yes, it's possible to launch a custom website by a hard date. Thornwood Digital, a small studio that builds custom websites, web apps, and AI automation, can work with you to create a timeline that meets your needs. They offer a direct line to the developer, no ticket queues, and a 30-day post-launch review with real data to ensure your site is working as expected. If you have a specific launch date in mind, be sure to discuss it with Thornwood Digital during the initial call so they can plan accordingly. They'll work with you to prioritize the most important features and ensure that the site is launched on time.
What's included in the custom website build process?
Every custom website build includes custom design and custom code, copywriting in the owner's voice, on-page SEO, analytics, and Search Console setup from day one. The site is also mobile-first, fast, and secure by default. Thornwood Digital handles the launch end-to-end, including setting up the domain, DNS, and email records. Additionally, they provide a 30-day post-launch review to ensure the site is working as expected and to make any necessary adjustments. You'll also receive a copy of your site's code once the project is complete, so you have full ownership and control over your online presence.
How do I get started with a custom website project?
To get started, you can visit the contact page to book a 15-minute call and discuss your project with Thornwood Digital. They'll provide a fixed price agreement and a simple online agreement to sign, and then you can begin the process of building your custom website. You can also learn more about what Thornwood Digital builds, including custom websites, web apps, and AI automation, and how they can help your small business succeed online. During the call, be sure to ask about their experience with businesses like yours and what kind of support they offer after the site launches.
What kind of support can I expect after my website launches?
After your website launches, Thornwood Digital offers a range of care plans to help keep your site running smoothly. The Care plan includes managed hosting, uptime checks, security monitoring, and software updates, as well as 2 hours of developer time per month for edits and revisions. They also offer a Growth plan that includes additional services such as keyword-targeted SEO articles and Google Business Profile management. You can choose the plan that best fits your needs and budget. For example, if you're a salon, you may want to prioritize social media integration and online booking, while a law firm may need more focus on security and data protection.
How can I measure the success of my custom website?
Thornwood Digital provides a 30-day post-launch review with real data to help you measure the success of your site. You can also use tools like Google Analytics to track visitor behavior, conversion rates, and other key metrics. By monitoring your site's performance and making data-driven decisions, you can continually improve the user experience and drive more sales or leads for your business. Additionally, Thornwood Digital's care plans include regular reporting and analysis to help you stay on top of your site's performance and make adjustments as needed.
Learn more about what happens after launch, including how to access your client portal and what to expect from the post-launch review. You can also visit the live client builds page to see examples of Thornwood Digital's work and get inspiration for your own project. If you're looking for more information on what a custom website costs, you can visit the pricing page or contact Thornwood Digital directly.
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