10 Sharp: Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to create my site?
The answer is different for each site. It depends on the size of your site, how much content is already available, and any advanced features you want to include, such as e-commerce or multimedia.
How does the design process work?
First we'll meet with you to discuss your business goals for your site, your users' needs, and how best to integrate the two. We'll work on an organizational structure for your site, including navigation and usability. We'll create a custom design for your site and work to refine the design into a set of finished templates. Once the templates are final, we'll add content, graphics, interactive or e-commerce systems if needed, and test the site on multiple browsers and platforms. After your site is launched, we can help you with search engine optimization, email newsletters, and site maintenance. A complete outline of the design process is in our Working wth 10Sharp document (28k PDF).
How much will my site cost?
Our minimum project price is $1500, which includes all discovery, site architecture, design concepts, and initial site templates. Additional production is billed at $75 per hour, $90 per hour for database or e-commerce programming. Final cost will depend on the size of your site, and the complexity of features you require. For example, interactive multimedia elements (music, video or Flash) will add to the cost.
Why is 10Sharp's price so high?
Actually, it's a very good price for the quality of site you'll get. A website is like anything else: you can go low-budget and buy a one-size-fits-all template site for $500, or you can pay for the experience and expertise that will get you a strong, workable site — one that will grow with you and address the specific needs of your businesses and your users.
Can I see a sample design for my site before I sign a contract?
No. That's called spec work, and it's against the ethical principles of the AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts). Instead, please see our portfolio page for an idea of what we can do.
I'm not in Austin. Can I still work with 10Sharp?
We can, and do, work with companies in other cities across the country. Most communication and approvals can be handled by email, phone or web. For project kickoff we do try to set up a face-to-face meeting if possible, but it's not required.
Can you help me set up domain registration and site hosting?
You bet. We don't host sites ourselves, but we'll work with you to get your site hosted and launched with a secure, established site hosting company. Our top recommendation based on price, features, and customer service is Westhost, which handles both domain registration and site hosting.
So how do I get started?
The first step in the web development process is for 10Sharp to learn more about your business, your users and your goals. To that end we've created a Project Profile questionnaire that asks about your site plans and what you'll need.
What comes next?
If you're ready to get underway, browse our 10 Ways to Save Time & Money on Your Site and contact us today — we'll be happy to talk with you to discuss your site or answer questions.
Contact us today
For more information about our services, call us at (512) 736.5201 or email contact@10sharpdesign.com.
