When you want to advance a web project, the first step is deciding which web design agency to hire. Though it may seem simple, choosing the right agency is crucial. Here is a checklist to guide you in making the best choice:

Web Design Alone Is Not Enough

The most important point is not to select just any web design agency. For a successful web project, you need a company that combines web design with digital marketing expertise. Many companies offer web design, but design is only one part of the process — often less important than marketing. Agencies that provide web design but lack digital marketing services will likely produce a website that looks good but fails to rank well in search engines. Therefore, choose an agency that also specializes in SEO rather than just advertising or graphic design agencies.

Prefer a Local Agency Near You

Whenever possible, pick a web design agency located close to your business. Although much work can be done remotely, face-to-face meetings improve design presentations. Non-verbal cues during presentations are important for understanding client feedback and are harder to capture in video calls. For example, if your company is in Barcelona, consider hiring a web design agency in Barcelona.

A Web Project Is a Team Effort

Always choose an agency over a freelancer. While freelancers may be skilled specialists, creating a website requires a team with diverse roles, including:

• A project manager who organizes the project and understands your business goals.
• An SEO consultant who develops and implements the SEO strategy from the start.
• A web designer who translates your ideas into graphic design.
• A web programmer who builds the backend and necessary features.
• A front-end developer who converts designs into a functional website.
• Possibly a content creator or copywriter.

Such specialized roles are usually available only in agencies with larger teams.

Two Designers Are Better Than One

Hire an agency with at least two web designers. Different designers excel at different styles—some create corporate designs, others more innovative or disruptive ones. The agency should match the right designer to your project, whether it’s a metallurgical company or a cosmetics store targeting teenagers.

Avoid Advertising Agencies Outsourcing Web Projects

Ensure the agency you choose performs all work in-house without outsourcing. Outsourcing usually increases costs, delays timelines, and reduces quality. Advertising or graphic design agencies often subcontract programming and SEO, which fragments the project, raises costs, and reduces efficiency. A project done sequentially by separate teams often results in dysfunctions and higher expenses.

Expertise Matters More Than Company Age

Expertise means deep knowledge and experience, not just how long the company has existed. A good agency has completed many projects, knows what works and what doesn’t, and can align your business strategy with the website design effectively.

Quality Work Takes Time and Investment

Web projects involve many stages and professionals. Expect the process to take time and cost accordingly. Quick and cheap websites are often low quality. Many clients initially choose cheaper options but eventually pay for two websites—one discarded and one usable.

Conclusion

Choosing a web agency is a critical decision. Opt for a digital marketing agency with proven expertise that offers both web design and SEO services, is located near you, and has a multidisciplinary team handling the entire project without outsourcing.