How to Choose a Web Designer in South Africa: 10 Questions to Ask

The short answer

To choose a web designer in South Africa, compare more than price. Ask to see work for businesses like yours, confirm who will own your domain and website, get a fixed price and timeline in writing, and check what happens after launch. A good designer answers all of this clearly and without hesitation.

Here are the ten questions that separate a good choice from an expensive mistake.

1. Can I see websites you've built for businesses like mine?

A portfolio shows taste and skill, but relevance matters more. A designer who builds websites for service businesses will understand what a plumber, salon or guesthouse needs to win enquiries. Ask for live links, not just screenshots, and open them on your phone.

2. Will the domain be registered in my name?

This is the most important question on the list. Your domain is your web address, and your email usually depends on it. It should be registered to your business, with you able to log in. Walk away from anyone who registers it in their own name and treats it as theirs.

3. Will I own the website when it's finished?

Once you've paid in full, you should own the finished website and its content, and have the logins to edit it. Ask what happens if you stop working together: can you take the site elsewhere?

4. Is the price fixed, and what exactly is included?

Get a written quote that lists what is included: number of pages, forms, Google setup, revisions and anything else. Ask what costs extra, such as a logo, extra pages or copywriting, so there are no surprise invoices later.

5. How long will it take, and what do you need from me?

A good designer gives you a realistic timeline and a clear list of what they need from you, such as photos, a logo and service details. Vague answers here usually mean a project that drags on for months.

6. How many rounds of changes are included?

Changes are part of the process. Two rounds is common. Ask what happens if you need more, and how much it costs.

7. Will the website work properly on phones?

Most of your visitors will be on a phone. Every page should be designed for small screens first, with buttons that are easy to tap and a quick way to call or WhatsApp you.

8. Will it be set up to be found on Google?

Ask what search engine basics are included: page titles and descriptions, a sitemap, fast loading, and wording that mentions your services and the areas you work in. Ask whether they can help with your Google Business Profile, which often brings in more local customers than the website itself.

9. What happens after launch?

Websites need occasional updates, security and backups. Find out whether the designer offers ongoing maintenance, what it costs, and whether it's optional. You shouldn't be forced into a monthly contract to keep your own website online.

10. What happens if I'm not happy?

A confident designer will have an answer, whether it's a set number of revisions, a preview before final payment, or a refund policy. "We'll see" is not an answer.

Red flags to watch out for

• No live examples of real work.
• Refusing to put the domain in your name.
• No written quote or timeline.
• Full payment up front for a new client, with no deposit-and-balance structure.
• Locking you into a long contract for hosting or maintenance.
• Pressure to decide quickly.

How Paperclip Studio answers these questions

We build websites for service businesses across South Africa. Your domain is registered in your name and you get every login. Your quote is a fixed price, with 50% to start and 50% when your site is ready. Most sites go live in 3 to 7 working days, with two rounds of changes included. Maintenance is an optional add-on, never a requirement. And if you're unhappy with the first preview of your website, you get your deposit back.