FAQ
Q. How do you charge for your work?
A. There are two ways. First, I can charge by the hour. My rates generally range between $55 and $60 per hour, depending on the kind of work. Second, and preferred by most of my clients, I can work on a project basis. I spend some time with a client going over their needs, and then present an estimate for the entire project.
Q. Do you do HTML programming?
A. Yes, I do HTML programming, to the extent of ensuring that a web page looks and navigates like it's supposed to. The design and programming processes are tightly intertwined in web development; I don't feel that I would be able to design an effective site without understanding the technology. I also have some experience with JavaScript for creating special effects and Macromedia Flash for web animation. I do not, however, do intensive back-end programming, such as database programming, Cold Fusion, ASP, etc. If your web site needs such interactive features, I have collaborate relationships with other professionals who can meet any of these challenges.
Q. What other software do you use? What kind of computer system do you have?
A. I generally rely on Adobe Photoshop for graphics, both for websites and print media. Additionally, I have experience with Flash, which adds rich interactivity and animation to web sites. For web site development, I use a combination of Macromedia Dreamweaver and hand-coded HTML. I do all my work on a Windows platform. My system also includes a scanner, CD Burner, fax machine, color inkjet printer, and ISDN connection to the Internet.
Q. How much does a web site cost?
A. That's a little bit like asking "How much does it cost to build a house?" There are so many factors - how big is it, what special features does it have, what tools are necessary to build it, etc. Generally, there are four parts to the cost of building a site:
- Domain name registration.
To register a domain name (i.e., www.yourcompany.com) you pay a fee for a two or five-year registration plan. - Site design/building
This is usually the biggest part of the job. I include in this fee graphic design, typography, photo/logo scanning, and HTML programming. The cost really depends on exactly what you want. I encourage you to call or e-mail me to discuss an estimate, or just to ask any questions you might have. - Site hosting
"Hosting" can be thought of as renting space. You pay this monthly fee to rent space on a "host server" for your site to live on. - Site maintenance
One of the most important things to do with a web site is to keep the content fresh. By that, I mean the site should be updated regularly with current information, news, new services, personnel changes, seasonal specials, etc. There are two ways we can handle maintenance: I can either bill you hourly whenever you want to change or update something, or we can set up a monthly or quarterly maintenance retainer.
Q. Do you offer web site hosting?
A. Indirectly. I don't personally host sites on my own server, but I can recommend a hosting company that is appropriate to a client's particular needs.