FAQs

Index:

Do I really need a website?

Perhaps not! Depending on your purpose, a Facebook account, Bandcamp page or a blog at Wordpress might be enough. However, most of the time you'll want an 'official' web presence, where you have full control over the content and user experience.

How big does my site need to be?

One page might do it. It's not a good idea to cram information onto a website, as it can lead to confusion and frustration for the visitor. It's best to supply the most important content first and store any supplemental info deeper in the navigation, that way your visitors can find what they're looking for in logical steps. However, if you have a gallery, blog or store the chances are you'll need a set of pages. A good way to find out is to check out your competition and compare their sites to your requirements.

How much will it cost?

That depends on what you want and what your budget is. Most projects can be divided into two sections - design and build. The design process requires understanding how you want to be seen online by your target audience and planning the presentation of your product or service. The build stage combines styling with functionality, inserting the features you require and presenting them logically. The more features your business needs the more it is likely to cost to develop. Projects start at a few hundred pounds and go upwards, but can be adapted to your budget.

What do I need?

You'll need a domain name, some web space on a server and some content to show visitors. The domain name is your online address where visitors find you and we can help you choose a suitable name. Your website is stored on a server, essentially a computer permanently hooked up to the internet, and we are always happy to provide space on our server for our clients. The content is your logo, images and text that make up your website and these files are stored on your web space, along with a database if you need one, and served up to your visitors as they visit each page.

I've been hacked - what can I do?

The best thing to do is act fast and get your site cleaned up. Try to use your site as little as possible while it's infected. The Chemistry Set has cleaned up several hacked sites and ensures all our clients' sites are fully secure. If you would like us to assess yours simply get in touch and don't wait until you're hacked!

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CMS or no CMS?

Content Management Systems use a database to store the information used on a cms-driven site. Their advantage is that content and structure, like pages and categories, can be edited by the site owner or staff members through a password-controlled admin area, allowing them to add items to a store or update information without having to ask the design agency to do it. However, not all businesses need regular updates. Sometimes it's simpler to have a well-structured HTML site, requiring the odd update by a designer, that leaves you free to concentrate on running your business.

What if I already have a website?

You may be dissatisfied with your current website. Perhaps it's not doing what you need it to do, or your focus has changed, or it's simply looking a bit tired and out-dated. We've undertaken many website revamps or added functionality to existing sites. Sometimes it's best to rebuild the site from the bottom up, especially with advancements in mobile technology. If you're unsure, get in touch and we'll talk it through.

Do I need to live in Stroud?

The Chemistry Set is based in Stroud in the Cotswolds, but our clients are based all over the world. We've produced projects for businesses based in India, Tibet, Holland, Italy, Spain and Portugal, as well as across England. Sometimes we never meet in person as it's not always convenient, although it's good to meet face-to-face if possible. The long and the short is, if you want to meet up we can arrange it, but it's not necessary.

Where do I go from here?

If you're still unsure whether you need a website, get in touch and we can talk it over. We don't want to force you into anything you're uncertain about, just to make money. What we want to make is satisfied customers. Take advantage of our years of experience and give us a call on 07986 595457, or email us your questions.

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