Frequently Asked Questions

There are a lot of Flash sites on the internet today. Is this the way to go, over an HTML site?
Will Next of Quinn guarantee good search engine placement?
How much will a new web site cost?
What is the turn-around time on a new web site?
I know someone who can make web sites. Why should I pay extra to a professional company?
What materials do I need to provide for my new site?
Will Next of Quinn maintain my web site?

There are a lot of Flash sites on the internet today. Is this the way to go, over an HTML site? (TOP)

There are advantages and disadvantages in deciding on a Flash site:

ADVANTAGES

Aesthetic Appeal:
Because Flash sites can have a lot of dynamic movement, and multiple levels of effects, they can be more enticing to view. Well designed flash sites have a very high-tech, state-of-the-art feel and leave a very good impression on the visitor.

Background Music:
Next of Quinn designs sites for entertainers and entertainment industry professionals. Many clients choose to have background music for their site, which, wisely chosen, can be a great marketing tool when approaching agents, record labels, producers, etc. Flash allows seamless audio playback, even as pages are changing. This is not possible with an HTML site, without loading an audio file into a separate browser window.

Creative Freedom:
Flash technology offers the ability to implement a seemingly infinite number of design ideas and effects to create the ultimate visual experience. A good example of this is in choosing a font. With an HTML page, it is important to select universal fonts so that pages appear the same on each computer. Unfortunately, that list of fonts is a very narrow one. With a Flash presentation, you can freely choose any font, any color, precision placement, sizing, scaling, effect, etc. for the exact result desired.

Browser Compatibility:
Flash sites will display the same across different browsers because what is being loaded is compiled "movie" rather than background code telling the browser how to display the information.

DISADVANTAGES

Cost:
Flash site development is a more expensive production process than HTML development.

Speed:
Because Flash sites are generally larger in size than HTML pages, and are dependent on CPU speed and a high-speed internet connection, the viewing experience will differ from one computer to another. For this reason, as a courtesy to your viewers, it is suggested that a "mirror" HTML site be designed as well to give viewers an option.

Search Engine Positioning:
Many search engines position web sites based on data retrieved from crawling or "spidering" each web site. Even though you may have a mountain of information inside of your Flash pages, search engines can not read this information, as they can the information on HTML pages. For this reason, you may lose positioning in the search engines if you don't have alternate means to let search engines know who you are. There are several methods for helping with search engine positioning, such as having a mirror HTML site developed, using adequate META tags, and having a main home page for your site which is HTML and contains information which the search engines can pick up. Depending on the type of web site required, it might also be suggested to have an HTML site developed using Flash elements throughout the site to give it the feeling of movement, while still allowing search engines to successfully crawl through the site and get the information they need to position your site as high as possible. There are considerations in every choice, which we will help you to decide when the time comes to design your site!

Will Next of Quinn guarantee good search engine placement? (TOP)

Search engine positioning is a growing business in the world of the internet, and there are numerous companies that do just this. Though Next of Quinn will not guarantee any kind of search engine ranking, we will absolutely apply all the web design tricks we know to ensure the best positioning possible. This will include appropriate use of keywords throughout the web site, proper HTML tag development, excellent navigation, link checks, browser checks, etc. We will also register your web site with the Open Directory (http://www.dmoz.org/) which is potentially one of the most important directories to make sure you are listed within. The reason is that many search engines either use the directory outright (like Google), or check new sites to see if they are listed in the ODP. Having a listing in the ODP won't rocket you to the top of the list, but it will help you place higher than those sites that aren't found within the ODP. There are many reputable companies that specialize in the search engine placement If you wish to pursue this more aggressively.

How much will a new web site cost? (TOP)

The cost of a new web site will depend on several factors, such as how many pages you require, the kind of content you wish to have, and what kind of database development might be involved. We provide free quotes when you complete our Web Design Bid Request form. Simply submit this and we will respond within 24 hours with estimated pricing and a project start date!

What is the turn-around time on a new web site? (TOP)

Depending on the size and content of your site, from design conceptualization to completion it generally takes anywhere from a week to four weeks.

I know someone who can make web sites. Why should I pay extra to a professional company? (TOP)

Choosing a professional company to create your web site ensures a uniquely designed, organized, well maintained site that will reflect your character and desired image in the best light. Some of the problems you may experience when choosing an ametuer to design your site can include broken links, unorganized information, large unclear graphics, and unclear navigation. It can also be very time consuming and frustrating.

What materials do I need to provide for my new site? (TOP)

We will ask you to send us anything you wish to have included on the web site, such as photos, bios, copy, audio files, video files, magazine articles, interviews and testimonials. We also invite you to share any ideas or wishes you may have in mind for the new site design which we will do our best to incorporate, or advise you otherwise if there is a reason a particular idea may not be effective.

Will Next of Quinn maintain my web site? (TOP)

Absolutely! We offer two different maintenance plans where you can pay by the hour, or pay one annual maintenance fee. For more information, see Service Options.