Interview Your Web Design Clients: 3 Sets of Questions to Ask

Item: Interview Your Web Design Clients: 3 Sets of Questions to Ask
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Author: Jessie Mitchell

Jessie Mitchell 0 Comments

Your understanding of a design project is pivitol to your success in meeting your client’s needs. Moreover, a job well done will help ensure repeat business and invaluable referrals. However, before you take up any order for making a website, it’s important to have complete information to start on the right note. There should be easy communication between you and your clients, so that you clearly outline all expectations. Understanding each other, and asking your client some important questions will save both of you time, and reduce the chance of a project failure due to miscommunication. Moreover, it will pave way for a long and lasting business relationship. Below are 3 sets of questions that I always ask my clients before providing a quote.

Table of Contents

Question Set 1: Collecting Basic Client Background Information

The first question set collects some basic background information from the client. Obviously, it’s nearly impossible to proceed without these details.

Do you have a website currently?
If, yes, then what is the URL?
What are your products and services about?
What do you like about your current website?
What you don’t like about it?
Who are your potential customers?
Who are your main competitors?

Question Set 2: Setting the Bar

Once you’ve become acquainted with your client’s basic details, it’s time to touch on the level of technical functionality that will be needed to run their site. This question set has been designed to get a read on your client’s technical understanding, and ensure you can meet their expectations beyond the basic look of their site, and within their expected budget and timeline.

Do you need any special functions and features in the website? For example, a mobile version of the site or multiple language support?
What do you expect from your website five years from now?
What is most important for your website to accomplish?
What is least important for you in the website?
Do you have any preferences on styles colors?
What is your budget for the site?
What is the deadline for the website?

Question Set 3: Focusing on the Details

The third and final question set deals with your client’s content and extended needs. These questions bring you beyond the general understanding of what your client wants, and gives you the specifics on how to get going.

Do you have all the photos and images the site needs?
Do you want the logo redesigned?
Do you need a copywriter?
Do you want to update the content of your website on your own?
Is this an e-commerce website?
Will you need any SEO help?
Do you have a domain and host setup for the new website?
Would you like to insert any other special features like forums, login, calendars, blog, or the like?

Final Question: Any Questions?

After you’ve finished grilling your clients, you should ask them if they have any questions. The questions your clients ask are invaluable to meeting their needs, and often very revealing of their understanding of your services. So, always leave some extra room at the end of your conversation to get more details and comments from your client.