Website design FAQs: what to know before rebuilding your business website.
Questions we are regularly asked before a redesign, from budgets and content through to SEO migration, security and ongoing ownership.
Clear answers, without the jargon.
How much should a professional business website cost?
Cost depends on scope, copy, integrations, ecommerce, migration risk and the amount of strategy involved. A small brochure site and a multi-location lead-generation platform are different projects. 39Design’s published packages provide a starting point, with bespoke work scoped after discovery.
How long does a website redesign take?
A focused business site may take several weeks; a larger content, ecommerce or integration project can take longer. The biggest delays are often content, approvals and access to third-party systems. A realistic project plan should identify these dependencies at the start rather than promise an arbitrary launch date.
Should my website be designed mobile-first?
Yes in the sense that mobile behaviour must be considered from the beginning, not added after desktop design. Navigation, forms, click-to-call links, page speed, tap targets and content hierarchy all need to work well on smaller screens.
Will I lose Google rankings when my website is redesigned?
You should not assume a redesign is risk-free. Before launch, review indexed URLs, organic landing pages, titles, internal links, backlinks and existing content. Keep valuable URLs where possible and map proper 301 redirects where changes are genuinely needed. A redesign should include an SEO migration plan.
Who owns the website after it is built?
Ownership should be clear in the contract. You should know what you own, what is licensed, where the domain is registered, who controls DNS and hosting, and how you can export content or move supplier if required. Avoid arrangements where basic access is deliberately withheld.
What content should be prepared before web design starts?
Start with services, ideal clients, locations, proof, team expertise, common questions and the actions you want visitors to take. Good design cannot rescue vague positioning. Content architecture and customer journeys should be agreed alongside visual design.
Does a new website need accessibility work?
Accessibility should be considered during design and development. Semantic HTML, keyboard access, contrast, clear labels, useful alt text and sensible forms improve usability for many people. The exact legal and contractual requirements depend on the organisation and sector.
What security should be included in a new website?
At minimum: HTTPS, secure administration, least-privilege access, supported software, backups, patching, logging and sensible protection against automated abuse. Higher-risk sites may also benefit from a WAF, stronger identity controls, staging environments and security monitoring.
Should my web designer provide day-to-day IT support too?
Usually not. Website support and IT helpdesk support overlap occasionally, but they are different responsibilities. 39Design recommends using a managed service provider for PCs, Microsoft 365, users, networks, cybersecurity and day-to-day helpdesk requests, while the web designer remains responsible for the website and agreed digital services.
Read our web designer vs MSP FAQs, or visit 39D Managed IT Support if you need an ongoing IT support provider.