Thinking about investing in a new business, ministry, or church website?
Before you choose a website developer, make sure you vet them well.
In this Website Design Frequently Asked Questions (Web Design FAQs) video blog, I address the topic 9 Questions to Ask a Church Website Developer Before Hiring
(The article below is a summary of the video, but you’ll get more details and examples if you watch the video.)
9 Questions to Ask a Church Website Developer Before Hiring
1. What’s Your Mission?
It’s important your developer’s mission aligns with your values. For example, OurChurch.com’s mission is to help Christian organizations live out their mission online. Understanding a developer’s mission helps gauge their commitment to your specific needs.
2. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experience matters in web development. The longer a company has been in business, the more likely they have a proven track record, a sustainable business model, and a commitment to their clients.
3. How Many Employees Do You Have?
Knowing the size of a web development team is important. You’ll want to work with a company that has enough staff to ensure timely and reliable support for your project.
4. Have You Worked in My Industry Before?
Any website developer can simply build you the website you ask for. But a web developer with experience in your industry will understand its unique requirements and terminology. They will be able to provide you with guidance as to how best to organize your website, and suggest things you may not have considered.
Ask for examples of websites they’ve built for organizations similar to yours, and see if you like their work.
5. What Website Platform(s) Do You Use?
Earlier in this series we addressed the question, “What is the best platform for my website?”
Once you’ve answered that question for your organization, you’ll want to make sure the developer you’re considering hiring uses that platform.
We at OurChurch.com use WordPress, the world’s leading website platform.
6. What’s Your Development Timeline and Process?
A clear development process is vital to ensure your project progresses smoothly. Ask for a detailed timeline, and a step-by-step process, so you can stay informed about the project’s status.
This will also help you understand whether the date you’d like your website to launch is realistic for each developer you’re considering.
7. How Many Revisions Are Included?
Find out how many revision rounds are included in the project. This will help you understand how many changes you can make to the website before incurring additional costs.
8. What Are Your Pricing and Payment Terms?
Discuss pricing and payment terms upfront. Inquire about down payments, subsequent payment schedules, and any available payment plans.
9. What Support Is Offered After Launch?
After your website is live, you may need ongoing support. Ask about the type of support offered, whether it’s via email, live chat, or phone, and what their availability is like.
Also make sure you clarify who will be responsible for software and content updates after launch.
Asking these nine questions will help you make an informed decision when choosing a website developer!
Good design is obvious. Great design is transparent. –Joe Sparano
Ask one of our website developers
If you want to reach and serve more people, a new website design and SEO services will help you do that. We would be happy to answer these 9 questions plus any others you have.
Compete the form below (mobile) or to the right (desktop) to schedule an no cost call!
Comment and discuss
- Which of the 9 questions above do you think is most important and why?
- Do you have any other questions you think are important to ask a web developer before hiring them?
Read or watch more Web Design FAQs
Co-founder & CEO, OurChurch.Com
Paul has been the CEO of OurChurch.Com since its founding in 1996, combining his passion for faith and technology to lead the organization.
An accomplished writer, Paul has authored over 2,000 articles on faith and technology, featured on platforms like ChurchLeaders.com, The JoyFM, and his personal blog, LiveIntentionally.org.
Beyond his professional achievements, Paul serves as an elder at Journey Community Church and is deeply engaged in his community through his involvement with the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranch and the Safety Harbor Chamber of Commerce. He is a contributing author of the book Outspoken! Conversations on Church Communication.
1 Comment
These are such great questions to consider asking. #1 I agree is so crucial, it is important to carry certain values, standards and a “why” so to speak for why you want to serve clients. I have found that a lot of people are just in it to make some money, thats it, and you really need a lot more than that at least if you’re planning on working with other quality clients. I have been through a couple of developers initially until I landed on a solid gal to manage my business website. I think if you’re in it for a quick buck and lack integrity, honour and other important qualities, you’ll only acquire the same level of clients that end up hiring you. Great tips Mark, I’m definitely going to share this with my pastor.