F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions)
If you don't find the answer you're looking for here, contact us and we will answer your question personally. Also visit Customer Support and Resources for more information. On this page: General Design FAQ| Web Design FAQ| SEO FAQ.
General Design FAQ
Q: When I hire you to do artwork for my company, who owns the artwork?Unlike some companies, our policy is generally that if you paid for its creation, you should own it.
We do reserve the right to display all created works in our portfolios as samples of our work, but you have permissions to use, duplicate and distribute the work as deemed needed by your company or organization.
Q: When do you start working on my project?
Initial Consultations are always free and we will use this time to learn about your project, goals and expectations. Typically, an estimate or proposal is generated for you following this initial meeting. Once your deposit is received by our office, your project is placed into Active Status and work begins. Additional information may need to be collected from you by email, phone or meeting to complete your project.
Q: How does the process work? How long will it take?
The process typically goes as follows: We collect information from you, create a proposal, a deposit is paid, we create drafts review and revision, once approved, final payment is made and we publish/release final product(s), and deliver of art and product(s) in agreed upon forms and formats. Depending on the nature of your project and how many parts there are to the package, this process can range from a few days to several weeks. Often, the length of the process is up to you and your schedule. Standard Contract Terms apply.
Q: Can you redo my existing logo or design?
Yes, we can. We can digitally redraw your existing logo in Vector Art form. Or, if you prefer, we can update your logo and give it a fresh new look... it's all up to you.
Q: I have a logo, can you help me put it on flyers, magnets, pens, signs...?
Absolutely! We will work with you to evaluate and integrate any existing logos, branding, color schemes, and marketing materials into your new materials. You want to make the most out of the money you've already spent in marketing. If it's working, keep it working and improve from there.
Q: Do I need "Camera Ready Artwork"?
For the most part it is no longer necessary to have Camera Ready Artwork. Most printers can now print spot color jobs directly from digital files. It is good to have when you are planning to print your documents in spot (Pantone) colors, and your print shop is using an old technology. Vector Art is preferred for items (such as logos) that may need to be scaled frequently.
Q: What is Vector Artwork?
Vector art files are based on mathmatical formulas and can be resized, scaled, and changed without loosing any quality or resolution. It's best to make JPEG, PNG or other copies for use in your web site. Vector files are mostly used by professional designers or print shops. You can edit vector files, if you have a vector program (such as Adobe Illustrator). See our graphic design page for an explanation and sample.
Web Design FAQ
Q: What do I need to have a Web Site?At the basic level, you must have 3 components to have a working web site:
- A Registered Domain Name (URL) - "www.mysiteaddress.com"
- A Hosting Account (Hosting) - space on an internet accessible server for your site and its supporting documents to reside and be accessed via the web
- Web site itself - The actual pages of your site- built and populated with content.
All three of these components must be acquired and kept active for your site to be "up" and available on the web. All three components are available from BHD.
Q: How much does a web site cost?Unlike some other companies, By His Design builds your site uniquely for you. We prefer to discuss your needs prior to quoting prices, as we often can find a creative, cost-effective way to save you money. We have established fair rates for packages and hourly development. Once we know what your site needs to do for you, we can provide you an accurate price quote in writing.
Q: How long does it take to have a web site completed?The time frame is determined by the size of your web site, the complexity of your site design, and our Active Projects schedule. BHD will work with you to complete the project in the least amount of time possible. Please alert BHD to any deadlines or seasonal requirements at the onset of a new project.
Website development will require your participation in approvals and in providing content. Your availablity and schedule will also impact the speed at which the project can be completed.
Q: Can you build my website even if I use another hosting company?
Yes, you may keep your current host or select a new company on your own. You do not have to host with BHD. After your website is completed we will need your web hosting ftp login username and password to upload your website for you. Certain types of websites are created with programming that is specific to certain server platforms. We can help you make sure the server you choose has the platform you need.
Q: What is site maintenance?
Site maintenance is provided to help you update your site with new content that you provide. Updates may occur quarterly, monthly, weekly or at-will. Fresh content is what will keep your visitors coming back. This is an optional service. If you want to update your own content, we can help you get started.
Q: I'm ready, now where do I start?
Simply complete our free estimate form or call our office and we will be happy to discuss your goals, prepare a cost estimate for you and start the process moving for you.
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) FAQ
Q: What is SEO?
SEO is a process of creating, monitoring and maintaining "optimal" code and content on your site to improve its ranking in search engines. For more details, visit our page that explains SEO Basics.
Q: How will my site be optimized?
We pull from our experience, your industry knowledge, and available research to determine the best words, phrases, content and code for your web site. For more details, visit our page that explains SEO Basics.
Q: Can you guarantee top ten placement?
Be very cautious of any company that makes such promises. There are "sponsored links" which appear at the top of some SERP pages through Paid Search Advertising. We have had many cases of such success utilizing organic means, but we do not promise the same results for each client. Contact us for more information on how to improve your search engine rank results.
Q: How long will it take a search engine to list my site pages?
Most are reflected very quickly. Some search engines take 2-4 weeks to add web sites, even with manual submissions. A select few can take as long as 3-4 months. Search engines update their databases on different schedules, so updates and changes may not show in search results immediately either, but they will be indexed and reflected as each search engine completes updates.