Start with a requirement you can check
“We need a modern website” leaves too much open. A more useful brief is: “We need to explain three services in two languages and send enquiries to the colleague responsible.” Write down what visitors should be able to do and what your team should receive.
A priced catalogue and a shop with online payments can look similar, but they support different processes. Payments, stock, delivery and order management need a discussion before you choose a platform.
What changes the quote
- Structure: the different page types and the information each presents.
- Content: who writes, photographs and translates the material.
- Features: forms, appointments, payments, a catalogue or CRM connections.
- Editing: what you can change yourself and who explains how.
- Handover: the testing, revisions and support included.
Page count alone tells you little. One page with a complex integration may take more work than several straightforward information pages.
Separate the build from recurring costs
Ask for two lists: the initial cost and the charges that repeat monthly or annually. Domains, hosting, licences and maintenance may have different owners and renewal dates. Ask what happens if you stop paying for support or move to another supplier.
Compare quotes in the same currency over the same period. Confirm whether taxes are included and what is charged separately. A management subscription is not necessarily payment for building the website.
Make a simple supplier comparison
Use rows for copy, languages, design, development, form integration, mobile testing and support. Mark each quote as “included”, “separate” or “unclear”. Resolve the unclear entries before making a decision.
Illustrative example: supplier A uses your photographs and copy; supplier B includes writing and image preparation. The difference in total does not tell you which offers better value. First check whether you have the time and materials required by option A.
Send enough information for a useful estimate
Prepare your service list, languages, examples you like and essential features. Explain what is already available and who approves the work. Ask for optional features to be priced separately so you can decide what belongs in the first release.
Use this brief when discussing website development or an online store. A useful proposal lets you check what will be delivered and what remains your responsibility.
Your checklist
Tick what you have checked. The list resets when you reload the page.