FAQs

As a client of Hutchhouse, what would I expect to contribute to the project?

Well, depending on the size of the project and the approach this can vary. However we'd expect a typical case to revolve around your feedback primarily. We will put together what we see as being the best fit with regards to the design and functional specification of the website in question, but it won't get off the ground without your approval. If you have an established logo then we'll need that in an appropriate format to work with, as well as any brand guidelines or style guides you may have. We'd also request any existing imagery (or additional material) that you may have so we can consider incorporating that into our thinking.

How does your process work?

There are two main workflows which we adhere to. The first is the traditional specification approach which relies upon an initial period of research and information gathering which is then compiled into a Specification Document.

The second is using XP management, which is a more organic way to approach design and development. It requires daily meetings, often including you, in which decisions are made in the priorities and progress of the project. Essentially the project is designed and built in short bursts (or 'sprints'), at the end of which functionality and design are reviewed and progress resumed based on feedback and further implementation of features.

During a typical project we would first gather your requirements, then move to design, getting agreement on the main site templates before starting the build and developing of the functionality. This process is bolstered online with design management and development tracking systems [see allworkeduphq.com].

How do you price up projects?

In the case of project based on XP management, this is straight forward. The focus is time based and billed on a regular (usually monthly basis). In terms of the traditional specification led approach, pricing is usually fixed, based on clearly identified requirements.

Do you buy domains and host websites?

Yes we do - but in the case of purchasing domains this is very straightforward and we recommend that this is done by you. A good site for finding and purchasing domains is 123-Reg. In terms of hosting we offer a hosting service to our clients only, but again this is optional, you are not tied in to us, there is no hosting agreement. You can host our sites on most web servers.

What if I need to update my content after the website is finished?

Within reason we'll carry out any tweaks to your site we can. Our policy is to keep our clients happy so we'll always try and go that extra mile. However, like all these things time is money so we'll just say that we'll try to make an honest judgment call when we have to and leave it at that.

Eg: If your website needs updating regularly (like, on a monthly basis) you will need to consider a Content Management System. This is something we can offer after your site is built but in a perfect world it's better to plan for this as early as possible in the project.

How can I keep the cost down?

The best way to get value for money if to play an active role in the project. As the client you will have to final say on virtually every task within the project lifecycle one way or another. By preparing images, text and rough sketches or sitemaps your input will not only give you a better understanding of what running the website entails, but will help us to gain greater understanding of you and your business.

What about any artwork?

Any original artwork, like web-design, photography, illustration, film and animation which have been created for the benefit of the website should not be used anywhere else without seeking permission from either us or the artist who originally created it. Original information (PSD's, FLA's, source code) remain our property but can be released for an additional fee. This does not apply to logos that we create for you.

What if I want to move my website off your servers?

We do not charge transfer-out fees if you wish to move, but we'd be sad to see you go.

Do you provide website Statistics?

In the majority of cases we recommend using the free online application from Google called Web Analytics. It's simple and effective and free! All you need is a Google account which you can get from here. We can step you through how it works when we set up your website. Otherwise, we would use a payed service which we can advise you on during consultations.

Do you produce Brand Guidelines or a Style Guide for other designers to follow at a later date?

When we create a logo/brand for you we advise that you get one of these produced. It's very useful for maintaining the integrity and visual identity of your brand as over time this can deteriorate. A Style Guide clearly identifies the key elements that make up your brand in a variety of different ways. The most common of which are: using the logo, typefaces, colours and layout correctly. It can also include more detailed information for future photography, film and/or animation. The most important thing to remember is that when you create your new brand the Style Guide will act as a bedrock for future work that you commission for your business.

Who owns the web site after it is designed, built and gone live?

Once the website is paid for in full, the rights of that site belong to you, the Client. You can move, delete, modify or add to it. The end result - the website which is served up by the web server is yours. There will of course be restricions on licensed, proprietory software used such as the Content Management System (you generally purchase a single use license) but generally the rules are the same. You can move, delete or modify the site, and generally speaking the only thing you cannot do is re-sell or copy it. You should refer to our T's and C's for more info. Source files, such as designs (PSD's) or Flash (FLA's) will also remain our property but can be purchased with an additional release fee.

What browsers will my site be compatible with?

We design and build our websites to work on all major browsers. This is mainly down to how we build the websites to begin with. By making our websites accessible they inherently have the ability to work across a plethora of browsers and operating systems including notebooks and mobile phones. You may here us gripe about Internet Explorer 6 but if you had to work with it, you'd understand too.