In order to save myself consistently typing out very similar email responses I’ve decided to create this page of Frequently Asked Questions. Hopefully, you’ve come here prior to asking me a question via email because this will likely get you a much quicker response.
How much does a website cost?
There is no set answer to this because every website is different. I’m happy to provide a fully itemised quotation based on your needs but I can’t simply give you a price after a five minute conversation over the phone – that’s not fair on either of us.
How do you charge?
Depending on your requirements I charge either:
- By the day
- By the project (fixed rate)
Will you work in our offices?
Yes, if it’s good for the project, I am happy to do this. I’ll bring in my own equipment and happily work in your office. This should (in a lot of cases) speed up development as ideas can be communicated much easier. However, if the project does not suit this arrangement then I’ll let you know.
I also have a different day rate for working on-site and off-site to reflect the added cost to my expenses.
How do you set your rates?
Okay, some people think web design/development should be cheap as chips – but I think the value I provide should be reflected in my prices I charge.
My rates are set to allow me to be able to
- Purchase all the equipment I need to do the best job
- Spend the right amount of time to do the best job
- Make a profit and pay my bills.
More information: How much does it cost to be a freelance web developer?
So what is your rate?
It’s not a good idea to publicly publish my rates. Please contact me for a quotation.
I know someone who can do it cheaper – can you match their price?
I’m not John Lewis:) I’ll be happy to provide a list of local people who can provide you with a cheaper service. If you don’t believe the service I provide is worth more than theirs then you’re probably not the client for me.
Your website is very yellow – I hate it… change it now
Okay, you’re not alone – I do get a few of emails from people telling me that they dislike the yellow. The purpose of this website is to appeal to creative digital/design agencies and, on that level, the yellow background allows me to stand out against other freelancers. You might not like it but you’re probably not the target market.
I’m a junior web developer; my employer has offered me £x – is that good?
Probably not:) but it’s very difficult for me to say because I don’t know your situation. I don’t know what your rent is, what your job description will be nor what the wages are like in your area. I’ll do my best to offer advice but you’ll have to take anything I say with a pinch of salt.
More details: What a UK junior web developer should expect to earn
My personal opinion is that your first role should be more about the experience you gain and less about how much you earn. However, earning enough to pay rent and eat is paramount.
Hello, I represent an India-based outsourcing agency…
Although I’m sure your company is very good; I do not wish to outsource any of my work to the other side of the world where I cannot properly manage its development. Sorry.
Hello I’m a recruitment agent…
Okay, I’m sure you’re one of the good guys but, realistically, you’re probably not:( I won’t be passing on any details of friends I know to you and I won’t be interested in any jobs you offer that aren’t suited to my skills and location.
If you are one of the good recruitment agents and can get me good bookings then I’d love to hear from you.
