Frequently Asked Questions
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General Website Questions
Q. Is there any obligation when requesting a quote from Smith Design Services?
A. No. We simply read your information, contact you, and discuss a solution that will fit your needs. We'll also give you an all-inclusive quote, with no strings attached.
Q. What if I don't need/want a package?
A. No problem. Just give us the specifics of the project, and we'll contact you with a quote. Our standard rate for web design is $35 per hour.
Q. How long will my website take to complete?
A. It all depends on the complexity of the site, what we have to work with, and what options you need. Generally, a simple website can be complete in as little as five days. Complicated projects, such as Online ordering, some Flash applications, and some databases may take as long as a few months to complete. Smith Design Services will give you an expected completion date with your quote, and will notify you if that date changes.
Q. Is there anything I have to do while Smith Design Services builds my site?
A. You have as little or as much control as you like. The more input you give us, the easier it is for us to build your site the way you want it. This also speeds up the process. Feel free to submit pictures, writing, ideas, concepts, promotions, and any other material that seems appropriate.
Q. What pictures can I use? How can I use them? I have questions about copyright issues.
A. Most material that is published on the Internet is copyrighted. This means that in order for you to publish media on the Internet, you must be the owner of the media, or you must have permission from the owner to use the media. A great example of this is Pictures and Graphics. Usually Smith Design Services recommends professional stock photograhy. The reasons for this is that they look professional, they are easy to implement, and they are specifically meant to convey an idea. Furthermore, they work great for printed media as well. For examples, visit www.corbis.com. Of course, we will always welcome any other kinds of graphics, clip art, or photography as well.
With that said, be careful when selecting graphics. Make sure to read all agreements and/or licences associated with digital media. Smith Design Services is not and will not be liable under any circumstances for any submitted media that violates copyright law(s). The client is responsible for all expenses, fees, and royalties relating to media purchases, copyrights, and licences. Smith Design Services can select and download images for use on a project, but regular hourly rates will still apply. For any other questions, concerns, or comments relating to images, copyright, or digital media contact your Smith Design Services represenative.
Q. What do the terms "Domain Name" and "Hosting Company" mean, and why do I need them?
A. A domain name is the name users will type in to find your site. (Ex:www.target.com) A web hosting company is a third party service that stores and "broadcasts" your website to anyone that is looking for it. Since most people and small businesses can't afford their own web server, they rent space from a Hosting Company. This is feasible, reliable, low cost alternative to having a local server. If you do have a web server, we will be happy to upload the created content, or give you a hard copy to install yourself.
Q. How do I get a "Domain Name" and "Hosting Company"?
A. Smith Design Services can take care of it for you, or you can search and find a provider. We can suggest numerous options based on your budget and needs.
Q. I have my own server/host. Can Smith Design Services work with them?
A. Yes. Smith Design Services works with any web hosting company. We can even implement our website on your own servers.
Billing and Credit
Q. How will I be billed? What terms do you offer? Is a down payment required?
A. Smith Design Services is dedicated to providing its clients with flexible payment terms. But to keep our costs down, we require a down payment of 25% of the quoted price to start any web design project. Any projects less than $600 are required to be paid in full. You will receive an invoice for any remaining balance due on project completion. Our Invoice terms are net/15. We offer revolving and net 30 credit programs for companies that need special financing. This program is offered on approved credit only.
For clients that use standard billing, an invoice for any remaining balance on your account will be sent at project completion, or at the end of each month, whichever comes first. Our Invoice terms are Net/15. Your invoice will also include a detailed timesheet describing all hours billed.
All payments terms are for business entities only. Any project granted on terms must be for business use. All websites, documents, or projects completed for personal use must be pre-paid in full.
Q. How do you score credit information?
A. We verify applications for credit through Duns & Bradstreet, the leading provider of credit information for companies. Other determining factors include: How long you been in business, Net Sales, number of employees, and other information. When there is a lack of information, we sometimes will use Experian.
Q. What payment methods do you accept?
A. We accept checks or money orders. We also accept online payments using Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, or instant bank transfers using PayPal. PayPal is free, easy to use, and incorporates features such as military grade encryption and buyer fraud protection. We also offer revolving and net 30 terms for companies on approved credit.
Q. How do I pay my invoice online?
A. When you become a client, Smith Design Services will send you a log in and password for our members area. There you will be able to view and print invoices, pay invoices online via PayPal, view any supporting documentation (Ex: Timesheets), and request support. You can access the Smith Design Services at any time by going to https://www.secondsite.biz/login/smithdesign.php. All information about your account is transmitted over secure 128-bit SSL encryption.
Q. I have a problem or concern about my invoice. How do I resolve it?
A. Smith Design Services is dedicated to providing its clients superior customer service. If you have a problem or concern about your invoice, just call (616) 363-4202 and we will assist you. To dispute an invoice online, log-in at https://www.secondsite.biz/login/smithdesign.php select the invoice in question, and click dispute invoice. Smith Design Services will then contact you within 24 hours to resolve the matter.
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