How to choose a web design agency?
Choosing a web agency is not like ordering pizza. Wrong choice = 6 lost months and a site that does not convert. Here are the 7 criteria that really matter.
The 7 criteria to choose the right agency
Beyond price: what separates a good agency from a bad one.
Portfolio
Ask for 3 delivered websites similar to yours, live for > 6 months.
Detailed quote
A vague quote = a vague project. Ask for line-by-line details.
SEO included?
Basic technical SEO must be included, otherwise the site is invisible.
Performance
Ask for the PageSpeed score of delivered sites. At least 80/100 mobile.
Code is yours
Make sure you own the site (no blocking SaaS).
Availability
Response time, post-launch support, updates: must be clear.
How to proceed in practice?
A simple, step-by-step approach.
Format, features, budget, timeline: before any quote.
Min: 3 quotes. Ideal: a freelancer, an agency, a mid-size.
Call 1 past client. 5 minutes worth €1,000.
Payment terms, deadlines, code ownership, maintenance.
Reply within 24h? Good. Over 48h? Run.
No “starting from” without clear deliverables.
FAQ — How to choose a web design agency
Answers to the questions we get most often.
Agency or freelancer?
Freelancer = faster, more human, cheaper for SMEs. Agency = for big-volume projects.
How to check site quality?
PageSpeed Insights test, mobile open, SEO structure. 5 minutes to assess.
Should I pay a deposit?
Yes, it is standard: 30% on order, 40% on mockup, 30% on delivery.
What if the project drags?
Contract with clear deadlines + penalties. Never pay more than 30% upfront.
How to cancel if issue?
The contract must include cancellation terms. Read before signing.
Need a maintenance contract?
Recommended for WordPress (updates, security). From €39/month.
Got a project? Let’s talk.
Send us your business, goal and indicative budget. We reply with a clear plan.
Send my projectcontact@websteve.fr
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