Because Not All Websites Are Created Equal

A beautiful design means nothing if it doesn’t bring customers. Whether you’re opening a shop in Downtown Roanoke or rebranding a local service business, hiring the right website designer can be the difference between an online portfolio and a powerful growth tool.

Before signing a contract, ask these crucial questions to make sure your designer understands your goals, your audience, and your brand.

1. What’s your process from concept to launch?

A good designer won’t jump straight into colors and layouts. They’ll start with discovery - learning about your business, your customers, and your marketing goals.

Ask them:

Do they build wireframes or prototypes?
How do they handle revisions and feedback?
What milestones or checkpoints exist before launch?

💡 Pro Tip: Look for designers who mention “strategy” or “user experience” (UX). They’re focused on results, not just aesthetics.

2. Do you design with SEO in mind?

Designing for search engines (Google, Bing, etc.) is critical for Roanoke businesses. Without basic SEO structure, your site might never appear when people search “website designer near me.”

Ask:

Will your site include metadata, alt text, and schema markup?
Are pages optimized for mobile and loading speed?
Can they integrate Google Search Console or Analytics?

A designer who understands SEO saves you from major headaches later.

3. What platform do you build on, and can I update it myself?

Many small businesses want control after launch.

Ask whether your site will be built on:

Squarespace: great for visually driven brands (and what you already use).
WordPress: highly customizable but needs more maintenance.
Webflow: sleek visuals but higher learning curve.

Your site should be easy to update without coding experience. Request a short tutorial or documentation after launch.

4. What results should I expect, and how will we measure them?

Design is just one piece of your marketing ecosystem. Ask how success will be measured:

Increased leads or calls?
More email sign-ups?
Better Google ranking?

Clear metrics help you judge ROI and keep your project goal-focused.

5. What happens after launch?

Even the best websites need maintenance, updates, backups, and occasional content refreshes.

Ask if your designer offers:

Ongoing support plans
Hosting and security monitoring
Quarterly SEO checkups

Reliable aftercare means peace of mind long-term.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a web designer isn’t just about looks - it’s about finding a creative partner who understands your Roanoke business, your customers, and your vision.

By asking the right questions up front, you’ll set your website (and your brand) up for lasting success.

What to Ask Before Hiring a Website Designer in Roanoke, VA