What to ask before you hire someone to manage your website
Ten questions that help you compare website managers and avoid surprises.
Who will own what?
Your domain name and content should stay yours. Ask who owns the design, and when.
How long is the commitment?
Ask about the minimum term, the notice period and exactly what you would owe if you leave early. Get it in writing before you sign.
What is included, and what costs extra?
Ask how many changes are included each month, and how extra work and third-party costs such as renewals are billed.
How are backups handled?
Ask how often they run, where they are stored, and when a restore was last tested.
How is security handled?
Ask how logins are stored, who has access, and what happens if the site is hacked.
How fast do you respond?
Ask for the response time in writing, and how you report a problem.
What will you report to me?
A useful report shows enquiries and results as well as uptime and speed.
Who does the work?
Ask whether staff or contractors do the work, and who your point of contact is.
What happens when we part ways?
Ask how you get your files and logins back, and how long it takes.
Can I talk to a current client?
A provider should be able to show you real work or put you in touch with someone they have helped.