Managing a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) or a start-up is an exciting adventure. But it can also be a bit overwhelming. Here's how to choose the right web agency for your SME in 8 simple steps.
With so many things to manage, from developing your product or service to implementing your marketing strategy, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
Today, one of the most important tasks for your SME is to create a website that reaches your target audience, showcases your products and services and leaves an excellent first impression. But with so many web agencies available, how do you know which one is right for your business?
Well, we can already tell you which one we think is the best: Iterates Agency.
Here are the key factors to consider when making an informed choice, whether you're launching your business or looking to modernise an existing site.
1. Define your objectives
Before looking for a web agency, it's essential to know what you want to achieve with your website.
Would you like to generate more leads? Sell more products or services? Or simply raise your brand's profile?
Knowing your objectives will help you choose a web agency that can help you achieve them.
2. Consider your budget
When it comes to web design and development, you get what you pay for. That's why it's important to define your budget from the outset. Bear in mind that a quality site is a profitable investment in the long term.
You don't need to break the bank, but look for an agency that offers good value for money, and be transparent about your budget.
How do you define your budget? Evaluate the cost to your company if this site were not created. What would be the impact if you didn't achieve your objectives? Calculate this potential loss over a period of 1 to 5 years.
Don't forget: a website is an investment that is generally amortised over 3 years in accounting terms.
3. Look for an agency with experience in your sector
This is not an absolute criterion, but it is a plus. An agency that has already worked in your sector will have a better understanding of your challenges and opportunities.
It can design a site that really sets you apart from your competitors.
4. Check the agency's portfolio
An agency's portfolio is an excellent way of assessing the quality of its work and its graphic style.
Choose an agency that shows a variety of projects, capable of creating personalised, ergonomic and secure sites.
5. Ask to work with real developers
Too many agencies simply reuse ready-made models. Make sure your site is designed by a team with genuine technical skills.
Tailor-made development means you can grow the site with your business, and easily integrate other solutions.
Otherwise, you run the risk of getting stuck in a slow-moving environment, which could stunt your growth.
6. Choose an agency with good communication skills
Fluid communication is essential if your site is to live up to your expectations.
Choose a team that listens, is able to translate your needs into technical language, and with whom you feel comfortable collaborating.
7. Examine the technologies and tools used
An agency that uses modern technologies will be able to create a site that is fast, secure and easy to use.
Proven solutions such as WordPress or PrestaShop also make it easier for another agency to take over your project in the future, so you don't have to depend on anyone else.
8. Think about post-launch support
A website is never really «finished». It's essential to work with an agency that can support you after you've gone live.
Choose a team that offers a regular maintenance and support service that you can rely on when you need it.
In a nutshell...
Now that you know how to choose the right web agency for your SME or start-up, it's time to start your research...
Or quite simply choose Iterates Agency from now on.
Good luck!
