More Questions?

Persistent type, huh?

Can I update my site myself?

Probably. Assuming we're talking mainly text updates, maybe adding the odd link, photograph or PDF.

Realistically, if it involves site design elements or new programming, it'll probably be me doing it. But updating content yourself is a lot easier than it used to be.

There's some very clever, inexpensive, software called 'Contribute' which allows you or your staff to update precisely the bits I let you touch, and nothing more. So don't upset me, or I won't let you touch anything, and you'll have to sit with your hands in your pockets.

If your needs are more complex - particularly if we're talking a transactional (e-commerce) site - you'll probably require some sort of database-driven CMS (Content Management System). As ever, talk to me at the start of the project.

How do I know if anybody looks at my site?

Every site I build has stuff included to tell you who's looking at it. Not their names and addresses, and what they like to eat, but how many of them, where they're from, which search engine they used and stuff like that.

You can tell other stuff too from these statistics. For example, which are the most (and least) popular pages, how long visitors spent on your site, etc.

Every website develops its own distinct pattern of usage. You can see why this might be useful. Which is why I charge you money for it.

What's this stuff about Accessibility?

Well, in the UK, it's covered by the Disability Discrimination Act. The means of improving accessibility, which has been defined for some time, is now fairly well supported by virtually all modern browsers and brings a number of other benefits relating to download speed, 'search engine friendliness' and access via cellphones, PDAs etc.

Accessibility issues, Web Standards and CSS layout are all inter-linked. The theory and technology might not interest you, but the benefits are very real.

So what happens next?

First we can talk about what you think you need. We'll wonder if we're going to get on. (We don't have to be best friends, but there has to be a certain empathy). You'll worry about how much this might cost. I'll worry about telling you how much this might cost (but not for long).

Then you go back to your office and I'll look up the price of something expensive I'd like to own so I can decide on a fee for your design project. (If I mention the name 'Kevin Scott' you should back away slowly, keep smiling and make no sudden movements).

Next time, I'll tell you about my ideas. You'll go 'wow!' If we're in my office, you'll be so excited you'll even forget about trying to steal my cool stuff. And when you get to the page in my proposal where it says I want at least one third of the fees in advance (or a minimum of £1000 ex VAT), you won't even choke on your biscuit.

I've got another question...

Really? Good God. You should probably be getting out in the fresh air more.

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