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How to Choose a Web Designer: 20 Questions to Ask

Hiring someone to build your website is one of the most significant investments you'll make in your business. The right web design partner can create a powerful asset that fuels your growth for years to come. The wrong one can lead to a costly, frustrating experience with a poor return on your investment. So, how do you tell the difference?

You ask the right questions.

This guide is designed to empower you. It’s a comprehensive checklist of 20 essential questions to ask any potential web designer or developer. Their answers will reveal their expertise, their process, and whether they are the right fit to bring your vision to life.

Part 1: Questions About Their Experience and Portfolio

These initial questions help you gauge their track record and see if their style aligns with your brand.

1. Can I see your portfolio of recent work?

Why it's important: This is the most obvious first step. Look for high-quality, professional, modern designs. Do their sites look clean and easy to navigate?

2. Have you worked with businesses in my industry before?

Why it's important: While not always a deal-breaker, a designer with experience in your field (e.g., restaurants, law firms, e-commerce) will already understand your unique challenges, target audience, and goals.

3. Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients?

Why it's important: Social proof is powerful. A confident designer will be happy to share testimonials or connect you with past clients who can speak to their experience.

4. What kind of results have your websites achieved for other clients?

Why it's important: This question moves the conversation beyond just looks. A great website is a business tool. Ask if past projects have led to increased leads, more sales, or better customer engagement.

Part 2: Questions About Their Process and Communication

These questions reveal how they work and what it will be like to be their client.

5. What does your web design process look like from start to finish?

Why it's important: A professional will have a clear, structured process (e.g., discovery, design, development, launch). A vague answer can be a red flag for disorganization.

6. Who will be my main point of contact through the project?

Why it's important: You need to know if you'll be working directly with the designer or with a project manager. A direct line of communication is often more efficient.

7. How often will we communicate, and through what channels?

Why it's important: This sets clear expectations for updates, whether they're weekly check-in calls, emails, or project management software.

8. What will you need from me to make this project a success?

Why it's important: This shows they view the project as a partnership. Be prepared to provide content, photos, and timely feedback.

9. How do you handle client feedback and revisions?

Why it's important: You need to understand their revision process. How many rounds of revisions are included in the price? A clear system prevents "scope creep" and extra costs.

10. What happens right after the website is launched? Do you offer training?

Why it's important: A good partner doesn't just disappear after launch. They should offer training on how to use your new site.

My process is built on clear communication and a direct partnership. When you work with me, you work directly with me—the person designing and building your site. To experience this straightforward, one-on-one approach, call me at 608.888.3735 for a free consultation.

Part 3: Questions About Technology and Strategy

These questions dig into the technical side and ensure your site is built on a solid foundation.

11. What platform (Squarespace, Shopify, Webflow, WordPress) do you recommend for me, and why?

Why it's important: The designer should recommend a platform based on your specific needs (e.g., e-commerce, portfolio, ease of use), not just the only one they know how to use.

12. Will my website be mobile-friendly and responsive?

Why it's important: The answer must be an immediate "yes." In 2025, a non-mobile-friendly website is unacceptable.

13. How do you approach Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?

Why it's important: This shows if they build websites to be found on Google. A good designer should, at minimum, cover foundational on-page SEO.

14. Will I be able to update the website myself after it's launched?

Why it's important: Your website should be built on a Content Management System (CMS) that allows you to easily make simple updates to text and images without needing to call a developer.

15. What do you do to ensure the website is fast and secure?

Why it's important: Site speed and security (HTTPS) are critical for both user experience and SEO rankings.

Choosing the right technology is one of the most important decisions we'll make. As an expert in multiple platforms, I provide unbiased advice on the best foundation for your business. To discuss the pros and cons for your specific situation, call me at 608.888.3735.

Part 4: Questions About Cost, Timeline, and Ownership

These final questions clarify the business side of the agreement.

16. How do you price your projects? Is it a flat fee or hourly?

Why it's important: This provides pricing transparency. A flat fee for the entire project is often best for budgeting.

17. Can you provide a detailed, itemized proposal?

Why it's important: A formal proposal should clearly outline exactly what is included in the price, ensuring there are no hidden costs.

18. What is the estimated timeline for the project from start to finish?

Why it's important: This sets realistic expectations for when your new website will be live.

19. What are your payment terms?

Why it's important: This clarifies the payment schedule, which is often a 50% deposit upfront and 50% upon completion.

20. Who will own the website and all its assets upon final payment?

Why it's important: The answer must be, unequivocally, "You, the client." You should own your domain, your website files, and all your content. This is a critical red flag if not.

Conclusion: Choose Your Partner with Confidence

Choosing a web designer is choosing a partner in your business's growth. By asking these questions, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to look beyond the portfolio and find someone with a professional process, strategic thinking, and a commitment to your success.

I believe in a transparent, collaborative process where all these questions are answered upfront. If you're looking for a web design partner who can confidently answer every question on this list, your search is over. Call me, Jeremy, at 608.888.3735 for a free, no-pressure consultation to discuss your project.