Frequently Asked Questions
Lots of people have contacted us to ask about setting up a web site, the website design or the possibility of modifying their existing website.
Many wish to arrange for us to design a brand new website or move their website to a different web server. Perhaps they have queries concerning either existing domain names or new domain names.
We have listed below for you some of the most frequently asked questions in connection with website design - along with answers - appertaining to web design and associated web issues.
How long will it take for my web site to be designed?
7-14 business days. Please note: Completion time is also dependent on communication or between the client and provider. If communication is slow (i.e. late receipt of hosting provider log in details, etc.), then the completion date cannot be guaranteed.
The time scale of a website design project is often dictated by the client. If you have a deadline in mind we will endeavour to meet it for you at an extra cost as we are busy with other clients.
The most common delay in the creation and completion of a new website is waiting for content (text/images) to be sent to us by the client.
Will we need to have a meeting in connection with the website design?
In the majority of cases a meeting isn't necessary and most of our websites are generally completed with contact via email and Skype only. We place suggested website designs onto the Internet in a private place where only you and us can view the content.
We then liaise with you regularly to discuss the web designs in order that the website design and functionality is exactly as you wish.
Once my website design is completed -what after sales service do you offer?
We offer web site maintenance so that your website never gets out of date. We are always available should you encounter any problems or require any improvements and maintenance to your website. Any additional work after the final completion of the site will be charged at a rate of R500 per hour if updates are required, with a minimum of R500 spent. We also offer a monthly SEO package.
In what format should I supply words and photographs about my business for my new website?
It would be helpful if you are able to provide text and photographs in electronic form - for example, the files output by a digital camera and the words in MS word or similar format. If this is not possible, we can help get your information ready for use on the website.
Will my website design be "Search Engine" friendly?
Search engine optimization is not included in the price and will require an additional monthly contract.
It is a good idea for your website to be re-evaluated in time as over a period of time the search engines do alter their rules and algorithms and you will want to be certain that your website is kept up to date and complies with new rules, etc.
I run a small/medium size business and want an online presence to promote my business in a professional manner to new customers and to provide a more professional image to existing customers. What do I need to achieve this?
You need a professionally developed website, a domain name, and hosting facilities for your website. You also need the website to be uploaded onto your hosting facilities. And if you really want to rock with Google you will need an SEO plan which will require an additional monthly contract.
How can I update my website?
You can either update your website yourself or use Future River Designs to do the updates for you. This will mean you will have to pay the hourly maintenance fee if you want major updates to your website, or... take our website maintenance plan so you can be sure that your website never gets outdated.
Am I tied to Future River Designs for any site maintenance or updates I wish to do once my website is designed?
No, once your website is designed it belongs to you and you can commission anyone to update it for you - although of course we would like to think that you are happy with our services and will continue to use us for your website maintenance.
Will everyone see my web site the same?
Your website visitors will see some things differently depending on their browser, screen resolution setting and their individual computer settings and toolbars. We design sites with that in mind and preview them in several browser types and resolution settings before publishing.
Thus meaning that your website will be a fully responsive website design. Obviously as technology alters then eventually all websites may need reevaluation.
Can you provide all our web design and hosting services?
We will design the website for you but you will need to register a domain and get a hosting plan yourself. The reason for this is that you are not tied up with future river designs. You can use our recommended hosting and domain registrars.
Do you guarantee that my site will always be available?
No, web hosting service can guarantee a 100% uptime. However, most hosts are generally available most of the time.
Do you use Flash animation in your website design?
Yes, we do use flash as and when required. It is important to note that there are times when flash animations can be an asset but it would be unwise to use "flash" to create an entire website or even entire pages of your website as search engines are not able to read the content of flash and therefore any words used in animations will not be indexed by the search engines.
Generally it is best to use flash for smaller banners, advertisements or demonstrations and incorporate the flash animation into a web page which also includes some written text in html. This way, the search engines will be able to index your information.
Do I get an email address with the website?
Yes, most hosts provide for more than one email account.
Can I have an e-commerce system for my website?
Yes you can. On the discovery form please spesify that you need an ecommerce site.
How much will a website cost me?
The cost of a web site varies depending on the site and complexity. Please fill in our discovery form and we’ll let you know as possible.
How many pages can I have on my web site?
As many as you like. Please make sure you specify exactly how many pages you would like when completing our discovery form.
I already have a website and I need it updated, can you help me?
Yes, we would be happy to look at your existing website and give you a quote for updating it.
Do you redesign existing websites?
Yes we do. We can redesign, retaining your company corporate style or we can redesign to give you a complete new image. Is your website up to date - let us provide you a Free of Charge Website Evaluation - we can redesign your website to take advantage of the latest web technologies.
Do you display any banners or pop-up ads on my website?
Absolutely not! - It's your website and you have total control over the contents and who advertises on it.
What if I do not like the design?
If you do not like the design which we have suggested for you, we will discuss further with a view to ascertaining what type of design you would like to see and then place another "suggested design" in your web area for you to view. We would not like to think that you are not happy with the final website design.
Our aim is to design a website specific to your requirements which you are completely happy with. That is why we recommend that you already have a specific design in mind, which will make our job much easier and ignore confusion between the client and us.
Who owns the website once the website design is completed?
The website belongs to you. If required we will send you an email copy of all the necessary details and everything you need. This copy is for your retention and should you wish to use another web design or web hosting company - you are completely at liberty to take this copy to them for them to use.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept PayPal and direct deposits.
What you can expect during the design process?
After your initial inquiry for our website design or services we will give you the next available date and quote which is valid for 48 hours. Without a deposit, we cannot guarantee any dates. We try to encourage clients to be fully prepared with what exactly their vision is before the design process begins.
Once we have completed the design we will send you a link so you can view it. You have 2 revisions should you wish to have something changed with no additional cost, however; for each additional revision there will be a R500 revision fee. Please note: If you wish to have a completely new design look there will be a R1000 fee.
Once you finalize your design we will begin installation. Once your site is installed, our design services are complete. However; we also offer website maintenance plans.
Please contact us so we can customize the right plan for you within your budget here!
Website Revisions
Our website designs include up to two revisions. For each additional revision the client will be charged a R500 revision fee.
What is a major site or blog revision?
A major revision for example can consist of a new header, background or completely new mock up of the site.
What if I need a rush website order?
No problem. It just means placing a rush website order, which means we will have to work on an overtime schedule. Because of this there will be a rush order fee. Current orders will not be affected and will stay in queue.
Do you allow refunds?
Because of the nature of website design, no refunds are allowed unless the project is canceled by Future River Designs in which case we will refund your deposit. If you need to have your project postponed, please let us know and we can schedule you for a later date on our design calendar.
What is Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of bringing your site to the top pages of major search engines via organic search results using certain keywords. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us!
Why do I need SEO services?
With so many sites on-line competing for visibility in your field you need an edge to help get you ranked and stand out to the top page in major search engines to improve your visibility and be seen by more clients, thereby helping increase sales. With targeted keywords geared to your audience and site optimization SEO services can do this for you. This is an investment you can’t afford to overlook.
Office Hours
Generally we are available:
Monday – Friday 8AM - 6PM
Weekends & Holidays - We are closed
Liability
Future River Designs are not liable for any images provided by the client. Please make sure you have permission to use the image if it’s not one of your own.
Credit
A Future river designs link will be placed at the footer of your site or blog. Upon hiring us you agree to keep it placed at the footer for as long as you are using our design for your amazing new site.
Preparing yourself for the design process
In order for the design process to run smoothly we suggest having a clear idea of the design you are looking for. Details such as; fonts, design inspirations (other sites that have similar styles you are looking for). This can help avoid an additional fee if you change your design process. So make sure you have a clear idea of what you want before we jump right in.
Payment Terms
Our payment terms are simple and convenient. We accept PayPal and direct deposits. For all work we require 50% deposit before we begin. Should you need to cancel we will hold the credit which you can use in the future and does not expire.
If you have a question that is not answered here, or you want to talk to us about any aspect of your website design, setting up or changing your web site, SEO, web hosting or website maintenance or domain name registration please feel free to contact us to discuss your requirements.
