Frequently Asked Questions

Nobody has ever really asked these questions, of course, but I like to think someone might. I suspect that the FAQ format was developed by computer geeks who didn't do all that well in English Composition.

Q: Why should I have my site built and maintained by you and not someone else?
A: Because I have a unique combination of talents in my ability to design for both looks and usability. I'm competent in the fields of graphic design, writing, html coding, photography and human relations. Besides, I have a sense of humor and that makes me pretty easy to work with. Those of you who have come to this site from The Practical Romantic have seen examples of my work.

Q: You mean you do a web site 100% by yourself?
A: Often, yes. In consultation with the customer, of course. However, there are times I have to rely on the talents of others. For example, while I'm good at the digital arts, as a graphic artist I reached my peak in about the third grade. Also, my skills in back end programming are pretty basic so if we get into the real sophisticated stuff I have to use a subcontractor. ("Back end programming", doesn't that sound technical? It means computing that's done on the server, also known as "server-side programming".) Don't worry, I have competent people I can call on when necessary.

Q: What about cost?
A: I like to work by the job, giving a set price for bringing a site to completion. Minor changes are expected as a site develops and are priced into the project. Major changes may require a cost adjustment but I do my best to keep things fair. A lot of site builders charge by the hour--personally, I never like to hire someone that way unless I can look over their shoulder and make sure they're not padding their time.

Q: Are you fast?
A: Not really. Site builders who work from templates are fast (and charge just as much as I do), that's why there are so many generic-looking web sites on the internet. I build a site from the ground up, so to speak, so you get a unique site that won't be mistaken for anyone else's.

Q: I live in Perth, or Riga, or Addas Abbaba, etc. Can you still build my web site?
A: Sure. With MSN or Yahoo messengers, communication is in real time (time zones not withstanding) and with microphone and speaker, voice communication is excellent. There are two requirements: English is the only language I'm capable of building a site in and I get paid in US dollars, which is not a problem in this day of PayPal.

Q: I live on the French Riviera. Can you take the photos for my web site?
A: You bet, just send me a ticket and I'm there. Have camera, will travel.

Q: Give some examples of these web site annoyances you're always going on about.
A: How many web sites have you visited and left because you were irritated? Blaring noise, time wasting Flash intros, hidden navigation, pages you find once and can't locate again--these are just a few things that can keep a visitor from returning. It's obviously not a widely held belief these days, but I think that when a customer (and that's what a web visitor is) feels irritated or frustrated, it's never good for business. I design to avoid such reactions in the belief that if someone is comfortable and is enjoying themselves, they're more likely to stick around and maybe even bookmark your page.

Q: Are these all the FAQ's?
A: No, but it's after midnight and I'm going to bed. Stay tuned.

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