On the face of it, the process of getting a web design quote or proposal for a new website project can appear a straight forward task.  But, listening to our clients, we know that people are often confused by the huge variation in approaches and web design quotes/proposals they get back from different freelance web designers and agencies.  To find out how you can get the best web design quote/proposal for your project, read on.

What’s the difference between a ‘website proposal’ and a ‘website quote’?

The terms ‘website proposal’ and ‘website quote’ are often used interchangeably.  Different agencies adopt different approaches to quoting for web design projects.  Some web development agencies send quick, informal websites quotes by email.  Others send full written, formal proposals that contain detailed design and development recommendations, deliverables and costs.  The approach taken can depend on a number of factors, such as the complexity of the website project, where the client is in the purchasing decision process, whether there is an existing client relationship between the designer and the client, or depending on the number of agencies competing in the design tender process, etc.  Either way, the response should contain sufficient information to enable the client to understand the general proposed approach and required budget to deliver the approach.

How can I improve my chances of getting a suitable website quote/proposal?

The process of obtaining website quotes/proposals can sometimes be a bit trickier than one might first imagine. But, there are a few things a client can do to minimise their risk of making the wrong choices. 

Having a clear understanding of the project brief is vital. Remember: a good website design brief lays the foundation for an accurate quote and successful design process.  Before the web design quote and design process can begin, consider, for example, your aims and objectives, your target audience(s), the required functionality, etc.  Investing time in understanding the web design brief and communicating this to your design agency will be indispensible for both parties in achieving a suitable website quote or proposal, and, ultimately, a successful project. 

Whilst in-depth technical knowledge is not a pre-requisite for clients, a little basic knowledge goes a long way.  When developing proposal costings for your website project, your web agency will consider the required deliverables to meet the website brief - and the necessary skills and resources.

Typical deliverables considered by web agencies include:

• Branding/logo design quote

• Creative development quote

• Build of website templates and/or site bug testing

• Quote for implementing a standard or bespoke CMS

• Quote for web design / web development work

• Quote for fixed design costs, such as imagery or photography

• Quote for variable design elements on the site, such as icons and adverts

• Quote for implementing search engine optimisation (SEO)

• Quote for further offline marketing communications development, e.g. quotes for leaflets, brochures, etc

Having some knowledge of what is being proposed enables clients to correctly evaluate the various proposal/quote responses, and to then make the right choice in selecting the right design agency for their project.

For creative web design that works, talk to greensplash.  Our talented team can assist you in defining the project brief and provide consultancy on the right approach for your project.

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