Creating a Website Estimate

Charging for Website design takes skill and know how. There are several methods used to earn money designing websites. The most effective is through custom sites. Another is through selling add features such as streaming video and flash animation. Finally, in order for a website to be effective, it has to be maintained. By offering monthly maintenance, blogs, and search engine optimization perks that raise the website search engine rankings, it becomes a win-win for the client since higher rankings can also mean more customers.

Instructions

1. Interview potential clients. There are some who try to do it all online, but in order to get a clear idea there has to be an interview. During that interview the website designer will find out the purpose of the website such as e-commerce or static. Is it a five page generic or one that requires several pages? Will there be secure pages, multimedia, user-content, or multiple access requirements?

2. Write down exactly what the client is looking for: Is it just a basic "business card" site or a high tech AJAX enabled site? Is it a new site or a remodel? By understanding what the client is looking for a designer will be able to make sure it is within their skill level and ability. Is it a one time thing or do they also need you to maintain the site as well?

3. Determine if you will charge an hourly rate or flat fee. This is actually a psychological component since most people arrive at their flat rate by multiplying their hourly rate by the number of hours it will take to build the site. Business owners tend to balk less at a flat fee, particularly if your average hourly rate is $50 or higher.

4. Tell the customer exactly what you will do for them and when. This keeps everyone on the same page, so there are no unrealistic expectations of a multiple page site in 24 hours. The milestones also help so you don't create a whole site, and find out they want another design.

5. Put the estimate in writing so they can see what they are getting, what is required of them, and when they can expect delivery.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn multiple programs

• Get the estimate done quickly

• Make sample sites

• Don't under price your services