The type of sites we build and how to prep for a solid estimate
Regarding size of the site as a fit for Orbis, I think that depends on what you're after. If you were to say, "I just want a site that's comprised of just a couple of pages of basic information" then I would steer you towards some other individuals I think are more appropriate for sites of that nature. If, however, you're looking to do some serious business with your site where you're pushing either considerable traffic or some high profile potential towards your site and you want to be sure you communicate a strategically crafted message, then we should talk further. Most of our clients - if their site's down a couple of minutes, that's an issue as they use it on a daily basis or they are constantly promoting it, using it to sell their services or products.
Information to pull together
Outline
At the very least you should have a simple outline of what the pages would be and some description as to the content that would be on each page. Nothing fancy, just a way for any developer to understand the size and whether a page is basic content or some type of application that would have to be built.
Content
Next, all the content you currently have should be collected. The outline is the broad overview, the content in any shape and form provides the assessment of what we're truly dealing with - especially the category of "we don't have that yet". We have built sites at record speed and at the most cost effective when we had been given everything up front. I know that's hard to do, but just keep in mind that your costs and time go down the closer you get to being able to provide everything you want for the site from the beginning.
Images
Technically part of the content, most organizations - even the big ones suffer from not having great imagery to help communicate their message. People really don't like to read a lot on the web and imagery really helps get the message across. Knowing what's available from the get go helps the developer know what should be considered in something like stock photography or getting a photographer.
Branding & Identity
Do you have a logo, a color scheme? This is in some ways the foundation that sets the tone for the whole site. If not, no problem - you should identify that needs to be developed.
Favorite Sites
Direct competitors are the best, but even favorites of what you like and can see your site looking like helps a great deal. Have a set of URLs ready with descriptions of either - direct competitor, somewhat competitive, to - not competitive, but like the design.
Blogging & Social Networks
The era of social networks is here and it's evolving site promotion from search engine positioning and email marketing to real network building. Regardless of who you choose to build your site, you should start putting serious effort into Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn (YouTube if you can video on a regular basis) and then a blogging tool of choice. The promotional process works like this - you blog really cool things about your industry on a very regular basis, demonstrating you're the king of that space. Then you use the tools above to alert your audience to this constant flow of information. For our clients, we've built the blogging tool into their site so that the promo traffic goes right to the site. Think of it as being a great reporter for your industry, your specialty. It's not easy to do, but it's definitely the foundation of how sites are pulling traffic in.
Finally, your objectives
What would you like to see happen in 6 months to a year after your site goes up?
