BRM FAQ's

Blue River Media (BRM) is serious about being transparent and professional in our services to current and future clients. We have come up with several (30) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) commonly posed to BRM and Web Design companies around the globe. If you have a question that is not answered here or you want to discuss any facet of your website design/redesign; please email us or call 709-697-4944.

How long will it take for my web site to be designed?

The timeframe of a website design project is often determined by the client. If you have a deadline in mind we will do our utmost to meet that date. The most common delay in the creation and completion of a new website is waiting for content (text/images) to be sent to us by the client. BRM will help provide direction and support in assisting with expedient development.
 

Once my website design is completed - what post development services do you offer?

We fully support any website BRM designs and are available 24/7/365 should you encounter any problems or require enhancements. We offer web site maintenance so that your website always remains current and innovative.
 

In what format should I supply text and pictures about my business for my new website?

It is helpful to us if you are able to provide text and pictures in electronic format - for example; the files outputted by digital cameras and text in MS Word, Word Perfect, or similar format. If this is not possible, we can assist in information gathering ready for use on the website.
 

Will my website design be" Search Engine" friendly?

All our websites are created with search engines in mind and the website design is compliant with search engine guidelines. It is a good idea for your website to be re-evaluated in time as over a period of time the search engines do alter their rules and algorithms and you will want to be certain that your website is kept up to date and complies with new rules and regulations.
 

How do I choose which web designer to design my website? Why choose Blue River Media?

There are thousands of web designers around the world to choose from. Most advertise on the Internet just like we do. BRM prides itself on being a professional service keeping in mind transparency, scalability, and innovation. We also realize every client is unique as are their needs so customize all projects to meet specific client requirements. Furthermore, BRM is a well-established company located in St. John’s; NL (http://www.stjohns.ca/visitors/index.jsp) Newfoundland and Labradoreans are proud people known around the world for a hard work ethic and respect for others. At Blue River Media, we highly respect our clients and continue to grow our business through a positive perspective and commitment to professionalism.
 

I run a small/medium size business and want an online presence to promote my business in a professional manner to new customers and to provide a more professional image to existing customers. What do I need to achieve this?

You need a professionally developed website, a domain name, and hosting facilities for your website. You also need the website to be uploaded onto your hosting facilities and promoted to the search engines.
 

Are there hidden costs associated with web design services?

No. We discuss with you your website requirements and then price accordingly and once you have placed an order for your website design with us, that price is strictly adhered to.
 

How do I update my website? Do I do it myself or does BRM provide such services?

There are many different methods that can be used to update websites. The method you choose and the functionality we build into your website design is solely up to you although of course we will be glad to advise you which method will suit your needs.

If you have a small/medium website consisting roughly of just a 4 - 6 pages or will only wish to make changes very infrequently, then usually it is more cost effective simply to ask BRM to carry out these changes for you. Other methods are largely dependant upon how much data or information and pictures you have and how you store this information at present.

We can provide an on line content management system or database system where you can either update individual products/pages/services or particular sections of your website. E.g. Private Membership Area
 

Am I committed to BRM for any site maintenance or updates I wish to do once my website is completed?

No once your website is designed it belongs to you and you can commission anyone to update it for you - although of course we would like to think that you are happy with our services and will continue to use us for your website maintenance.
 

Will all end users see my web site the same way?

Your website visitors will see some things differently depending on their browser, screen resolution setting and their individual computer settings and toolbars. We design sites with that in mind and preview them in several browser types and resolution settings before publishing. Obviously as technology altars then eventually all websites may need reevaluation.
 

Can you provide us with all of our current and future web design and hosting services?

Yes - we are your one stop company to provide all your web services. Call or email BRM with any needs and or concerns. BRM can register your domain name, design your website, provide your web hosting and arrange your email accounts for you.
 

Do you use Flash animation in your website design?

Yes we do use flash as and when required. It is important to note that there are times when flash animations can be an asset but it would be unwise to use "flash" to create an entire website or even entire pages of your website as search engines are not able to read the content of flash and therefore any words used in animations will not be indexed by the search engines.

Generally it is best to use flash for smaller banners, advertisements or demonstrations and incorporate the flash animation into a web page, which also includes some written text in html. This way the search engines will be able to index your information. Hybrid sites are often the answer and in many cases, cost effective static web sites is the best option.
 

Can I get e-mail(s) with my website?

Yes - you can have 5 to as many email(s) as you need depending on which hosting package you choose. E.g. comments@yourdomain.com, info@your-domain.com, chris.herridge@your-domain.com
 

Can I see how many visitors I've had to my website?

Yes - we can provide web tracking software which records where you visitors are coming from and which pages they looked at, which search engines are being used, which phrases are being typed into which search engines and many more interesting web tracking facts which you should find useful for future marketing campaigns. Of course, a basic Hit Counter too is offered.
 

Can I have an e-commerce system for my website?

Yes. We have Secure Servers (SSL) which use the latest encryption methods to ensure that your customers can buy and/or view the website knowing that the information they enter is secure and safe. If you wish your customers' payments to be "cleared on line" we can interface to organizations like Pay Pal, Verisign, and Yahoo or whichever third party you like.
 

When can I update my website content?

If the website we have designed for you includes a Content Management System then you can access your administration areas from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection and make updates instantly as frequently as you wish. If your website was designed without using this type of system and you don't have necessary web design skills, then we can update the website for you. Our charges are very reasonable…
 

Is there any training provided with the Content Management System - CMS?

The Content Management Systems BRM creates is customized and are very easy to use and do have explanatory notes included where necessary. We run through the administration screens with you when we design the site for you – however; if at any time you have any questions, we are available to discus via physical meeting or telephone procedures and/or answer any queries you may have.
 

How much will a website cost me?

The cost of a web site varies depending on the site and complexity. Estimation - A small web site with just a few static pages would cost as low as $500.00 whereas a full ecommerce website with a large number of pages and a CMS system costs starting at $2500.00 but truly depends on complexity of the project. If you give us a call we will be please the discuss with your website design requirements and give you a fixed quotation as we understand everyone’s need is specific.
 

Do you display any banners or pop-up ads on my website?

Absolutely not! - It's your website and you have total control over the content and who advertises on it.
 

I already have a website and I need it updated or maybe even a redesign; can you help me?

Yes, we would be happy to look at your existing website and give you a quote for updating it. BRM has redesigned many web sites to help clients make their web presence both innovative and current. An appeasing look as well as ease of navigation is every client’s goal we pride ourselves on achieving.

We can redesign, retaining your company corporate style or we can redesign to give you a complete new image. Is your website up to date - let us provide you a Free of Charge Website Evaluation - we can redesign your website to take advantage of the latest web technologies
 

What if I do not like the original design suggestion by BRM?

If you do not like the ‘initial’ design that we have suggested for you, we will discuss further to determine what specific design you would like to see and then resend based on your suggestions. With your guidance for improvement, BRM will meet your needs on a second draft and add content once design is approved. BRM often base our initial suggestion on your logo and business model.
 

Will I find my website on the search engines?

Yes - we always design websites to be search engine friendly.
 

Once my website design is completed can you provide web hosting?

Yes you can arrange to host your website on our secure web server located locally in St. John’s, NL.
 

Can I have a professional email address?

Does your email address look professional? Is your web hosting company flexible? It is amazing to find that in this day and age, some companies have still not realized how important their email communications are. Your email address may actually be more important to your image than your logo, letterhead or business cards combined!
 

What additional qualities do BRM provide in web site development?

We design websites that are user-friendly. Websites that are visually appealing, creative in design and also have great functionality. They are effective as business tools. We know the value of the different web design features that can be used and we know which design features work and why they work.
 

Can I register a domain name through BRM?

Yes absolutely! Domain registration is an important service we offer on a yearly basis. If it is available, we will secure for you.
 

Who owns the website once the website design is completed?

The website belongs to you - we send you a copy of the website on DVD once all fees have been paid to BRM. This copy is for your retention and should you wish to use another web design or web hosting company - you are completely at liberty to take this copy to them for them to use.
 

Do I need to sign a Service Agreement?

We would prefer for both yours and our records to have a Service Agreement in place with agreed upon Scope of Work and Pricing Model. Again, transparency is the key to success.
 

Is a deposit required?

Yes – BRM requests a deposit of 25 to 50%. Remaining funds paid upon approval of final design before going ‘Live’.
 

Do you have Financing options?

Yes – BRM provides financing as agreed upon in the terms of the Service Agreement. OAC