Frequently Asked Questions

You're a website strategist? Is that the same as a web designer or developer?

A web designer will brand your site. A web developer builds it. A web strategist (that's what I am!) will make sure your website supports your unique business and client goals and is optimized for success.

A website may look good and be built well, but first and foremost it should be built to meet the needs of your business and your users and help you convert your right clients.

But what if I'm looking web designer or developer?

Glad you asked! If you're looking for a website that feels branded and is solidly built, I can help with that too.

My website implementation package includes light customization of a pre-existing Squarespace template (go check them out!). It ALSO includes a one-on-one training session with me, so when you get the keys to your brand new car, you'll be able to manage future tune-ups like the pro that you are.

That said, if you're looking for uber fancy designs and functionality, I'm not your girl.

I want to redesign my website. When does website strategy come into play?

Strategy should always come first. Getting really clear about your website's architecture, user's journey, and core goals, will help ensure a successful website launch.

If you're already in the middle of a redesign with a separate vendor, we can possibly still work together! Touch base and let's chat. While it's helpful to have strategy ironed out before you begin, in most cases, I can still offer content and UX consulting along the way.

I don't have a website yet. Does that matter?

Not at all! Our work together at the beginning of the project will get me up to speed on your brand, your clients, and your goals. We'll make sure you're set-up for success as you begin your web design project.

Why do you recommend Squarespace? What if I'm on a different platform?

There are a ton of quality, affordable website CMS platforms out there, but I believe Squarespace uniquely strikes the balance between customization and customer support.

• Squarespace templates deliver sophistication without the need for crazy custom code. Compared to other platforms, formatting is a breeze. It's also easy to immediately test mobile view so there are no surprises after you hit publish.
• 24/7 customer support via email and chat. PLUS helpful forums. But the most important part is that nose diving into these forums is a choice, not your ownly option. Have a question? Just ask them. This means you can confidently handle future updates without relying 100% on outside help (that costs $$$).
• Squarespace is not open source. This means developers can't contribute their own plug-ins and features like they can in Wordpress. While it restricts some customization, it also means it's easier for you to manage. The plug-ins that are available simply work—there's less compatability issues and zero need for frequent manual upgrades so your site doesn't, well, break.

If you're on a different platform that you like, there is absolutely no requirement for you to switch. I'll consider specific CMS and template when developing your strategy. Just know that implementation will be back in your court once the project is complete.

I didn't think I wanted extra support with copywriting, branding, or implementation, but now I do. Can I add on services mid-project?

Absolutely! But it's best to get clear on what you want before we get started. Adding on an additional service, extends the time we work together which may interfere with other projects in the pipeline. Which means I won't be able to guarantee this deliverable will happen seamlessly in conjunction with your strategy project.

As the client, what is my expected involvement in the project?

Beginning: Before we get started, you will complete a business and web strategy questionnaire. This will set the foundation of our time together. The more you can share, the more I can dig-in and prepare for our project kick-off call.

Middle: There may be times throughout the strategy phase that I have questions for you to help me dive in a little deeper. I ask that you be ready and eager to reply to these questions so we can keep the project momentum moving.

End: Once I share the project deliverables, it's your turn to review. This is where you can share your gut reactions, ask questions, and share what feels right (or not).

How long will we work together?

Forever! No, I'm kidding—but I'm sure by the end of our project I'll be wishing it were true. Our project timeline will be agreed upon before we dive in so what we both can expect is crystal clear. The content strategy projects run 4-6 weeks. The whole kit and caboodle package runs 10-12 weeks. If you are interested in the content strategy package and additional add-ons, we'll discuss timelines during the contract review.

What happens if a deadline is missed?

We won't! (Right?) Look, life happens. (We are in the middle of a pandemic... all of us.) It's understood that we both will do our darndest not to miss deadlines (for the sake of the project, our sanity, and out of respect to my other clients already in the books).

If you are unable to meet an agreed upon deadline, please reach out—and I will do the same. All projects will have a two-week grace period for "just in case" coverage, should extra time be needed.

Because I work with a limited number of clients at a time, extending your project timeline past the two week grace period may not be possible. But that doesn't mean you'll be left in the lurch. Reach out, and we can review options together.

How many clients do you work with at a time? Is there a waitlist?

I work with no more than two clients at a time because I want to be able to devote my attention to each unique project. If you think you may be interested in working together, inquire sooner rather than later! Projects can book anywhere from 1-3 months in advance.

Why do offers say "starting at"? Should I be worried?

Nope and NOPE. 9 times out of 10 the starting at is an accurate price point. Because every project is unique, there may be occasions that the project scope is a little more than average. (Think, a 30 page website audit vs a 15 pager.)

I will consider each business' unique starting point and project goals before determining a fair price point. But don't worry, you'll know up front what your investment will be. You will never find hidden fees or unexpected "running out of hours" excuses here. cough (unlike most agencies...)

Do you offer payment plans?

Sure do! Be sure to mention your interest when completing the Work With Me form.