Your web design project can transform your business’ fortunes, but it could also turn out to be a complete nightmare and waste of money. This article is about how to spot the tricks played by unscrupulous web designers and scammers on unsuspecting small business owners. These tips will save you from wasting precious time and money.
For a small business owner, having a strong online presence is crucial. Finding the right web designer is essential, but it can also be a minefield. Unfortunately, some individuals and companies exploit unsuspecting businesses. Here are a few ways to identify red flags and protect yourself from potential scams in the web design industry.
Spotting a Scam
Unrealistic Promises
Be cautious of web designers who make grand promises that sound too good to be true. Claims like guaranteed top search engine rankings overnight or ultra-low prices are red flags.
I recently saw an ad promising a website for 400 GHS ($25). When I contacted them for more details, they admitted they would only provide a one-page site on an obscure platform. Surprisingly, their ad was getting tons of engagement.
Quality web design and SEO take time, expertise, and realistic expectations.
Unprofessional Behaviour
Years of working on client websites have taught me one thing: professionalism is key. If a web designer frequently misses deadlines, gives vague answers, or communicates poorly, consider it a warning sign.
Ironically, I think bad communication is a deliberate ploy to avoid understanding your requirements, as they communicate quite well at the start of the project, at least until you make the payment.
Reliable designers maintain clear communication and consistently meet their commitments.
Full Payment Upfront
Legitimate web designers typically ask for a deposit upfront, with the balance due upon project completion. If someone demands full payment before any work has started, it’s a significant red flag.
At EnspireFX Websites, we have on several occasions completed the project before any payments were made, especially for our recurring clients.
Avoid paying the full amount upfront to protect yourself from potential fraud.
Lack of Portfolio or References
Every established web designer has a portfolio of previous work and client testimonials. If they can’t provide examples or references, be wary. Always ask to see their work and talk to past clients to verify their reliability and quality.
If you’re working with a freelancer, remember to ask them what exactly they did on the portfolio site. I remember a gentleman who was with us for barely a month interning placed some of our sites on his website as his project. Unfortunately, this could lure unsuspecting clients.
You can find their past clients by checking out the contact details on their past works. Be sure to check the copyright section on the site’s footer to see if this web designer’s name is stated there.
How Web Designers Might Exploit Small Businesses
No Legal Contract
A legal contract protects both parties by outlining the project scope, timeline, and payment terms. The contract should spell out who owns all assets, licenses, and subscriptions used on the website project. We have dealt with clients whose domain subscriptions have been hijacked by past web designers; a legal contract would protect you from all this.
Don’t start work without a signed agreement. Scammers often avoid contracts to exploit ambiguities and leave you with no recourse.
Inconsistent Pricing
Web design pricing can vary significantly, just like getting an estimate from a mechanic. Factors such as the quality of materials, experience level, and business overhead can influence bids. The most expensive bid isn’t always the best.
The pricing should even be such that, you have the option to select what is included, and which addons are left out.
Do your research, get feedback from past clients, and ask for detailed explanations of costs in the written estimate. Find out whether the prices include licenses and subscriptions.
Lack of Transparency
A trustworthy web designer will give you a clear, detailed estimate and explain what goes into the pricing. If costs start to balloon from the original estimate without clear reasons, it’s a sign of potential exploitation.
Be wary of open-ended arrangements or freelancers who want to bill you weekly or monthly without a defined scope.
How to Protect Yourself from Web Design Scams
Consult Other Developers
One of the best ways to ensure you’re not being taken advantage of is to get second opinions. Ask other developers for quotes and advice. Most are willing to answer questions about what they would charge for a similar project, which helps validate the estimates you receive.
Feel free to get in touch with us for a free consultation on your website project: EnspireFX Contact.
Define the Project Scope
Ensure that the scope of your project is well-defined from the start. This will protect you from scope creep, where the project’s requirements keep changing and can lead to escalating costs. Set clear expectations and constraints upfront to prevent unexpected expenses.
Regularly Review Progress
Keep track of the project’s progress and quality of work regularly. Open communication and frequent updates help you stay informed about the project’s status and address any issues promptly.
Finding a reliable web designer requires due diligence. By being aware of these common scams and taking proactive steps to protect yourself, you can ensure your business gets the quality web design it deserves. Always remember that a well-defined project scope, a signed contract, and transparent communication are your best defences against scams and exploitation.
About the author
Dennis Gyamfi Bediako is a minister and web developer at EnspireFX Websites, a web design studio in Accra. Together with his team, they have been developing and managing websites for businesses in Ghana, the US, UAE, and the UK for the last 5 years.