Do They Have Design Experience?
Ask to see examples of a company's successful Web sites. Visit their Web site. Does the site have that polished professional look? What are their support levels after the site went live? You need to know you can form a long-term relationship with your Web Partners. A seasoned Web company will have an online portfolio for your review. You want to see a diverse client base with different goals and target markets. Throughout the investigation remember your company or organization's image and perceived credibility are literally at stake. Poor design and graphics will reflect negatively on your business. Do some power surfing; you will quickly gain a discriminating eye that will allow you to distinguish the sites that are professionally produced vs. those whose owners have cut corners. If you do not yet have an online connection, now is the time to get one for this process! You cannot choose a company to work with without viewing their use of technology from visuals to functionality.

What is Their Online Experience?
You need a company that is well versed in the Internet's culture and "NETiquette". This experience is crucial to your success! Understand that knowing "computers" or "graphic design" does not necessarily translate into knowing what works for your specific business on the Web. There are many that give the impression of knowledge and the perception of value to get into your pocketbook. Don't be techno-babbled! With an Internet connection and some software, anyone can throw up a Web page and call themselves a "Web Designer". You need to do your due diligence! You need to understand the process and work with a company whose sole focus is Web Development and Marketing.

Are They Committed Full-Time?
A full-time commitment to being involved and keeping up with this technology is essential for the Company to be considered true professionals within the Web Development industry. Anything less will compromise your success. 
If you are choosing a Virtual Partner not located in your area, they should respond quickly to your email inquiries. If you request a phone call - how long does it take for someone to contact you? Are they prepared to make your long distance relationship efficient and effective. Have they invested in an 800 number so that you can contact them without incurring long distance phone charges? These are signs of a company that is positioned to work remotely - which is critical to your Virtual Partnership.

Do They have a URL?
Do not trust an Internet Consultant or Web Design Firm that has not invested in a custom domain name "www.theircompany.com"; and his or her own server to promote their services. Visit their site, review their portfolio. If they do not have an impressive successful Web site for their business, how can they possibly create an effective presence for you? Send an email through their site. Slow responses to your email inquiries should make you question whether the developer is actually using the technology that they promote. How can they assist you with your success on the Web when they do not know how to do so themselves? This is a big warning signal!! Fancy brochures can be bought, proposals filled with buzzwords created from templates; knowing how to use the Web for your success is a skill acquired only after years of experience and dedication.

Do They Design For All Platforms?
How many browsers and screen resolutions does the designer take into consideration during the development process? Did you know that Web sites appear differently depending on software (Netscape 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 4.5, Internet Explorer 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, AOL 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0), OS (Windows, Mac, WebTV) or screen resolution (640, 800, 1024)? 

Do They Offer Marketing/Search Engine Efforts?
Initial registration with top Search Engines and Directories should be included in the package price. (The top 10 Search Engines generate 95% of Web site traffic.) The company should offer Search Engine monitoring services to insure your site's continued placement. Companies that offer hundreds of Search Engine registrations without an ongoing proactive plan to maintain listings are not well versed in this very important area. Your Web site will be literally a spec of sand in the desert. Work with a firm that has a successful online marketing track record in addition to design capabilities. A professional company will also include the basics of marketing your site on and off-line. Support in this area needs to continue even after your site goes live. This industry is literally evolving daily; how will you be kept informed? 

Are There Any Extras?
Make sure you have a discussion on how much changes, maintenance and future support, custom graphics, forms, etc. will cost. Many times a low per page price does not include these items. This is also where a written agreement clearly stating charges is invaluable! Partner only with a company that has an arsenal of products and services that you can utilize as you develop your site. Also, keep in mind the overall value of the company's service offering. This is not an area that you want to make a decision based on price alone. Unfortunately, on the Web, you often don't always get what you've paid for! 

Do They Know Servers?
The Consultant should be well-versed in Server options including E-Commerce package functionality and issues. They should offer you several choices. When it comes to your Web Presence - you will get what you pay for. Quality tools build solid foundations. 

Are They a Quality, Reputable Firm?
Quality and reputation take time to build. Look for a professional, established company that will be around to grow your site. Call the local Chamber of Commerce and ask about their reputation in the community in regards to their Web Development services. Don't be fooled by the slick consultant who is very good at talking over your head but cannot meet the criteria on this page. You should investigate the company you are going to partner with; this is your business we're talking about! 

What are Their Service Levels?
Effort and time is scheduled to get to know your business and answer EVERY question you may have. You feel comfortable regardless of your level of knowledge or experience. Customer service and satisfaction are key! Run from the developer that cannot or will not take the time to discuss the criteria on this page. Also, be sure to ask what proactive programs and/or services are in place to keep you informed and involved in the continual changes that occur with this technology. 

Do They Offer Ongoing Support?
Does the company tailor their services to your knowledge and exposure levels? Do they offer ongoing support programs after your site is launched? Support does not mean - "call us if you have any questions". Support means that you are advised proactively the information critical to your program. Support means that you know you can email/call/fax to get a prompt and courteous answer to any question or concern you may have. Without an ongoing relationship that insures your Web partner keeps you abreast of changes in the technology; what you need to know for your long term continued success, your site will not meet any realistic goals that you may set. 

Satisfactory discussions on all of these issues will help insure you are working with a firm well versed in technology, the Web Development industry and committed to your success. One item omitted indicates you are not getting the total package necessary to utilize the full potential the Internet can offer your business.