FAQsI have Questions . . .
Hopefully, here is an answer to most anything you need. Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions are listed here. If you can't find what you're looking for, no worries. Just email us.
I want a web site. Where do I begin? What do I need to know?
When contacting any designer about a new website project, you should have a good idea about what it is you want and be sure to communicate your ideas clearly in order to get the best result. If your description of what you want includes words like "kinda, sorta, maybe, whatever, you know", you might want to spend some time determining what your needs are. We can help! This includes specific ideas about colors or imagery, what kind of "vibe" should be conveyed, or if there is a particular image you'd like to present. Good foundation ideas and some general instructions allow you to get the most return on your investment with us.
It might be helpful to provide your designer with specific examples of sites you like and don't like. We will never copy the work of another designer, but it helps us understand the styles you prefer. Of course, if you feel you aren't sure or need guidance with branding or concept, we're happy to provide it! Please make that clear to your designer and we will discuss our branding packages in our proposal.
What do you charge for a website? Why don't you have exact prices listed?
We don't have price list because we quote each request individually. Your needs are not the same as the next guy, nor his the same as the nice lady before him. Everyone wants something a little bit different. Moxie being able to accomodate those needs is the reason you're here.
If you provide us with important details about what you want from your website, such as what the site is for, how much content and what type, if you need a logo, etc., then we can provide you with a detailed estimate for your individual project... with pleasure!
Top
How do people find my website? In addition to search engines (see below), there are a variety of ways to help visitors find your site which include: placing your email and WebSite address on all of your pamphlets and promotional material, business cards and "tag lines" at the bottom of all your emails. You can also help people to find your site by looking for other related sites that are willing to trade links with you. Each site ultimately benefits from a linking partnership. Simply putting links on your page to other sites does little to your ranking if they do not add your site to theirs. Submission to, and advertising in, industry-related e-zines, newsletters, blogs, or traditional media (magazines, newspapers, etc.) will also help your marketing strategy. The internet is a vast and cost-effective means of site awareness but it can't be done to the exclusion of everything else. A good marketing campaign includes traditional media and "thinking outside the box".
Top
Where Are You? It is very easy to work closely with you, even though we are in different locations. All you need is a an e-mail address and sometimes a phone! Jolly Moon works closely with our clients to build a site that fits their specific needs. We get to know YOU and working with us is just as easy as having our staff right accross the street.
Top
Can you design something similar to my competitors web site? Yes, we can. We encourage our customers to show us samples of web sites that they like and dislike so that we can get a feel of what kind of design you are envisioning for your business WebSite. We will add your company's unique flavor into the final design so that your web site remains and feels unique to you. We can never "copy", "lift" or "steal" someone elses web design.
Top
Do you offer discounts for non-profits?
Depending on your choice of design, we can work with a modest budget. You might not be able to get everything on your WebSite wishlist, but we can certainly tell you what you can get for your budget.
Top
Will you build me a huge site for free?
Nope. It isn't that easy. That is, unless you are offering to pay all of our bills for a year. :) Then we might consider it. While we'd love to be able to offer free sites, be a one-pager or a really small website touch up, we just can't keep a roof over our heads doing so. If you are a current or prospective client, we are more than happy to answer any question you may have. But, if you're looking to see how much friendly assistance you can get for free, you get one question.
Top
So, I guess that means you won't sponsor our charity event or donate a prize?
You're kidding, right? When we are able, we do our share of happy things like offer donations or spread the word about your event. We can't always accept every offer to help, but it definitely won't hurt to ask us. Give us your story . . . you never know.
Top
How long does it take to build a website?
This depends on the project. Each website is unique and may require more or less time to build. Factors such as how quickly you communicate with your designer about design decisions and how well you express your wishes can influence the final timeline. Building a site is an exact process, so once your design is finalized, the site still needs to be coded, implemented and tested. This process can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months depending on the size of the site and the complexity of your choosen design. We always will let you know generally how much time is needed, before we even code the first line.
Top
Can I manage my own site after you finish?
If managing your site once your designer signs off is important to you, please let your designer know when discussing your project in its beginning stages. There are many Content Management tools available today that can enhance your site and provide an easy way to maintain updates to sections of the site. We can recommend a few tools that may suit your needs.
Top
I don't know anything about websites, do you offer site maintenance?
Yes, we do! Jolly Moon has prepaid maintenance packages available for purchase. To receive the most for your money, we recommend having a redesign of your website if it is a little outdated, so that future updates are a snap. We don't mind working on a site someone else built for you, but it could mean that the project may take double the time if it was poorly made, which costs you more money in the end. New techniques and designs are being explored every day and it is important to us that we give you the best possible information and tools in an updated WebSite.
Top
What is a Photo Blog? What is a Gallery?
A Photo Blog typically is a "web page for photos" where people journal their latest photographs in a layout fashion. A Photo Blog is perfect for the photographer in all of us. It's a place where you can share your photos online for family, friends, pets or whatever. A Gallery is for the photography enthusiast or professional. A place where you can display your talents in a gallery-like setting.
Top
What is a blog? How can a blog enhance my business website?
A blog or "weblog" is online journaling that has become hugely popular. The tools that spawned from blogging have great features that we see being extremely beneficial to businesses. These blogs or Content Management Systems (CMS) can really enhance the performance of a website and create ease for the site owner in making basic updates to its content. Fresh content and updated content is key to keeping your visitors returning and keeping them informed. It allows you to communicate with your customers in a positive hands on way. Most CMS tools have a web based control panel that you can log into and edit or post changes to your site without ever having to mess with any code. It can be used to post news, photos, or it can be used to pull in news feeds from other related sites. There are so many possibilities and there are quite a few platforms to choose from. Check out this article or ask us which tool would best fulfill your project.
Top
I need to call you? Why is there no phone number listed anywhere?
Jolly Moon is a WebSite Designer with a web presence, and it just isn't safe for us to make our number posted. We have families and our safety to consider. We prefer working primarily through email. It helps us keep more accurate records of your requests and our conversations so that we have a solid reference points while we work on your project.
Top
Will you come to my office? Let's do lunch!
While that sounds delightful and we could really do salads, unless you're in Atlanta, Georgia chances are slim that we will be getting breadsticks at the Olive Garden. But, we're quite skilled at this email thingee. A few "shouts" back and forth and we'll have your new site live in ASAP time.
Top
Can you start right now? I want my site up tomorrow: it's and Emergency!
Help me, Help me now. So, let's say you've always been your regular cookie cutter sort of person. $5 haircuts. Always walk-in. You hate waiting. This produces messy results. But, when you get psyched for a change, you decide to treat yourself. You book an appointment with a wonderful stylist just a few short weeks off and then...zowie! You have a Super Do! A Super massage, etc. Thanks to this new " 'tude", you're walking and talking with pinache! Now, you get more attention than you've had in months! It is all about your planning and attitude. You'd wait a month or more for that "treat".
Don't worry, busy designers are a good sign! Jolly Moon can usually work together to come up with a mutually agreeable timeline. In the meantime, pretend it's the line outside the bank on payday.
Top
Lightning ate my website. Do you have my spare files?
Sorry, Gertrude. We do keep copies of most of our designs, but eventually they are burned onto disk and archived. Occasionally, due to hard drive failure or other technical difficulties, there may be designs we just don't have the back-up files for. It is the client's responsibility to maintain copies and backups.Jolly Moon can furnish a back-up of your website on CD once final payment has been received and you request it, but there is a copy of your WebSite on your server and a copy on your hard drive that we help you set up.
Top
Do you do personal blogs?
We want to make blogs an asset to your business. Jolly Moon does offer simple blogs and website design, but almost all of our designs start at $200 and up. All estimates are quoted at a very competitive rate on a case-by-case basis. So we can do one page or a hundred! Ask us how we can help you do a hobby page or some small website.
Top
Personal Blogs vs. Professional Blogs
A personal blog (or "vanity blog") is one that is geared more toward the blogging enthusiast. Sites like Blogger and Typepad enable the casual user to start a blog on a whim and share their stories and anecdotes almost immediately. Many opt to purchase a domain name and hosting, setting up their own personal blog, where they can discuss current events, politics, food, their lives — whatever! — keeping them public, private and various levels in between. Generally, blogs use blogging platforms like Movable Type, Expression Engine or Wordpress and some hosts even include installation in their fees. Examples of a simple blogs can be found here or here or here.
A professional blog is one that is usually incorporated into a commercial or small business WebSite and it is geared towards sharing information about the company or for help desks. Often, people may have a personal blog that doubles as a professional blog, especially if they happen to be doing their own business, such as an author, an artist or an entertainer. That would be considered a "professional blog". Some examples of professional blogs can be found here , here, and here.
Top
Can you give me references?
We are very happy to give references, please ask us
Top
Why do I need a website?
A website is an excellent way of promoting almost any business and a well designed and planned site should have a marked impact on sales. Customers will see it as a central point of information and, as the content can be change rapidly and easily it's a great way to keep in contact.
Top
Where do I start?
Picking a new WebSite to spend your money on can be totally overwhelming. Let us help. Simply get in contact. Jolly Moon can discuss any initial questions you may have and our consultations are free. If you would like to email us: success@jollymoon.com and will we reply shortly.
Top
Why should I re-design my website?
Websites can age quickly, and a fresh look can boost customer interest in the product or services you supply. During the dot com boom many websites where designed quickly and poorly by inexperienced companies, many of whom are no longer in business. Jolly Moon can repair technical problems in your current site, incorporate additional features and bring the design up to current web standards.
Top
How much control do I have over the design?
We believe in open and honest approach works best, so at every stage of the design and implementation your feedback is sought and any changes incorporated. What happens if I don't like the design? Jolly Moon works on every design until you are completely satisfied and you will able to view your website before it goes live. No website goes online before final client approval.
Top
Search Engines?
Why can't I be found by search engines such as Google? There are many reasons for poor search engine results. These could include the website having poorly structured content or improperly targeted keywords. How can you help me? We have a large file of information and current trends in SEO optimization. It is monumentally complicated and know one really knows ultimately how it works. Jolly Moon does a basic Search submission for your webpage as part of your proposal. If you must have a top ten on the four or five major search engines to sell your product, we can steer you with great help. You won't beat IBM, Apple, Ford, Rock Music, etc. They pay 1,000's and 1,000's per day to stay number one.
Top
Domains & Hosting?
A domain name is the address of your site - such as www.bluemonkeymusic.com . To own that name you must register and pay a small fee every 1 to 10 years. We will register domain names on a client's behalf with no additional service charge as part of a purchased package or we can help you transfer your WebSite to a better hoster.
Top
Ecommerce and Shopping Carts
I would like to sell products directly online, can you help? We can build custom e-commerce websites, or you can use many easy e-commerce tools. Will I be able to update the products myself? Yes. All Jolly Moon's ecommerce WebSites come with an administration section that allows you to update product content including images. Other features are:
Top
When contacting any designer about a new website project, you should have a good idea about what it is you want and be sure to communicate your ideas clearly in order to get the best result. If your description of what you want includes words like "kinda, sorta, maybe, whatever, you know", you might want to spend some time determining what your needs are. We can help! This includes specific ideas about colors or imagery, what kind of "vibe" should be conveyed, or if there is a particular image you'd like to present. Good foundation ideas and some general instructions allow you to get the most return on your investment with us.
It might be helpful to provide your designer with specific examples of sites you like and don't like. We will never copy the work of another designer, but it helps us understand the styles you prefer. Of course, if you feel you aren't sure or need guidance with branding or concept, we're happy to provide it! Please make that clear to your designer and we will discuss our branding packages in our proposal.
What do you charge for a website? Why don't you have exact prices listed?
We don't have price list because we quote each request individually. Your needs are not the same as the next guy, nor his the same as the nice lady before him. Everyone wants something a little bit different. Moxie being able to accomodate those needs is the reason you're here.
If you provide us with important details about what you want from your website, such as what the site is for, how much content and what type, if you need a logo, etc., then we can provide you with a detailed estimate for your individual project... with pleasure!
Top
How do people find my website? In addition to search engines (see below), there are a variety of ways to help visitors find your site which include: placing your email and WebSite address on all of your pamphlets and promotional material, business cards and "tag lines" at the bottom of all your emails. You can also help people to find your site by looking for other related sites that are willing to trade links with you. Each site ultimately benefits from a linking partnership. Simply putting links on your page to other sites does little to your ranking if they do not add your site to theirs. Submission to, and advertising in, industry-related e-zines, newsletters, blogs, or traditional media (magazines, newspapers, etc.) will also help your marketing strategy. The internet is a vast and cost-effective means of site awareness but it can't be done to the exclusion of everything else. A good marketing campaign includes traditional media and "thinking outside the box".
Top
Where Are You? It is very easy to work closely with you, even though we are in different locations. All you need is a an e-mail address and sometimes a phone! Jolly Moon works closely with our clients to build a site that fits their specific needs. We get to know YOU and working with us is just as easy as having our staff right accross the street.
Top
Can you design something similar to my competitors web site? Yes, we can. We encourage our customers to show us samples of web sites that they like and dislike so that we can get a feel of what kind of design you are envisioning for your business WebSite. We will add your company's unique flavor into the final design so that your web site remains and feels unique to you. We can never "copy", "lift" or "steal" someone elses web design.
Top
Do you offer discounts for non-profits?
Depending on your choice of design, we can work with a modest budget. You might not be able to get everything on your WebSite wishlist, but we can certainly tell you what you can get for your budget.
Top
Will you build me a huge site for free?
Nope. It isn't that easy. That is, unless you are offering to pay all of our bills for a year. :) Then we might consider it. While we'd love to be able to offer free sites, be a one-pager or a really small website touch up, we just can't keep a roof over our heads doing so. If you are a current or prospective client, we are more than happy to answer any question you may have. But, if you're looking to see how much friendly assistance you can get for free, you get one question.
Top
So, I guess that means you won't sponsor our charity event or donate a prize?
You're kidding, right? When we are able, we do our share of happy things like offer donations or spread the word about your event. We can't always accept every offer to help, but it definitely won't hurt to ask us. Give us your story . . . you never know.
Top
How long does it take to build a website?
This depends on the project. Each website is unique and may require more or less time to build. Factors such as how quickly you communicate with your designer about design decisions and how well you express your wishes can influence the final timeline. Building a site is an exact process, so once your design is finalized, the site still needs to be coded, implemented and tested. This process can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months depending on the size of the site and the complexity of your choosen design. We always will let you know generally how much time is needed, before we even code the first line.
Top
Can I manage my own site after you finish?
If managing your site once your designer signs off is important to you, please let your designer know when discussing your project in its beginning stages. There are many Content Management tools available today that can enhance your site and provide an easy way to maintain updates to sections of the site. We can recommend a few tools that may suit your needs.
Top
I don't know anything about websites, do you offer site maintenance?
Yes, we do! Jolly Moon has prepaid maintenance packages available for purchase. To receive the most for your money, we recommend having a redesign of your website if it is a little outdated, so that future updates are a snap. We don't mind working on a site someone else built for you, but it could mean that the project may take double the time if it was poorly made, which costs you more money in the end. New techniques and designs are being explored every day and it is important to us that we give you the best possible information and tools in an updated WebSite.
Top
What is a Photo Blog? What is a Gallery?
A Photo Blog typically is a "web page for photos" where people journal their latest photographs in a layout fashion. A Photo Blog is perfect for the photographer in all of us. It's a place where you can share your photos online for family, friends, pets or whatever. A Gallery is for the photography enthusiast or professional. A place where you can display your talents in a gallery-like setting.
Top
What is a blog? How can a blog enhance my business website?
A blog or "weblog" is online journaling that has become hugely popular. The tools that spawned from blogging have great features that we see being extremely beneficial to businesses. These blogs or Content Management Systems (CMS) can really enhance the performance of a website and create ease for the site owner in making basic updates to its content. Fresh content and updated content is key to keeping your visitors returning and keeping them informed. It allows you to communicate with your customers in a positive hands on way. Most CMS tools have a web based control panel that you can log into and edit or post changes to your site without ever having to mess with any code. It can be used to post news, photos, or it can be used to pull in news feeds from other related sites. There are so many possibilities and there are quite a few platforms to choose from. Check out this article or ask us which tool would best fulfill your project.
Top
I need to call you? Why is there no phone number listed anywhere?
Jolly Moon is a WebSite Designer with a web presence, and it just isn't safe for us to make our number posted. We have families and our safety to consider. We prefer working primarily through email. It helps us keep more accurate records of your requests and our conversations so that we have a solid reference points while we work on your project.
Top
Will you come to my office? Let's do lunch!
While that sounds delightful and we could really do salads, unless you're in Atlanta, Georgia chances are slim that we will be getting breadsticks at the Olive Garden. But, we're quite skilled at this email thingee. A few "shouts" back and forth and we'll have your new site live in ASAP time.
Top
Can you start right now? I want my site up tomorrow: it's and Emergency!
Help me, Help me now. So, let's say you've always been your regular cookie cutter sort of person. $5 haircuts. Always walk-in. You hate waiting. This produces messy results. But, when you get psyched for a change, you decide to treat yourself. You book an appointment with a wonderful stylist just a few short weeks off and then...zowie! You have a Super Do! A Super massage, etc. Thanks to this new " 'tude", you're walking and talking with pinache! Now, you get more attention than you've had in months! It is all about your planning and attitude. You'd wait a month or more for that "treat".
Don't worry, busy designers are a good sign! Jolly Moon can usually work together to come up with a mutually agreeable timeline. In the meantime, pretend it's the line outside the bank on payday.
Top
Lightning ate my website. Do you have my spare files?
Sorry, Gertrude. We do keep copies of most of our designs, but eventually they are burned onto disk and archived. Occasionally, due to hard drive failure or other technical difficulties, there may be designs we just don't have the back-up files for. It is the client's responsibility to maintain copies and backups.Jolly Moon can furnish a back-up of your website on CD once final payment has been received and you request it, but there is a copy of your WebSite on your server and a copy on your hard drive that we help you set up.
Top
Do you do personal blogs?
We want to make blogs an asset to your business. Jolly Moon does offer simple blogs and website design, but almost all of our designs start at $200 and up. All estimates are quoted at a very competitive rate on a case-by-case basis. So we can do one page or a hundred! Ask us how we can help you do a hobby page or some small website.
Top
Personal Blogs vs. Professional Blogs
A personal blog (or "vanity blog") is one that is geared more toward the blogging enthusiast. Sites like Blogger and Typepad enable the casual user to start a blog on a whim and share their stories and anecdotes almost immediately. Many opt to purchase a domain name and hosting, setting up their own personal blog, where they can discuss current events, politics, food, their lives — whatever! — keeping them public, private and various levels in between. Generally, blogs use blogging platforms like Movable Type, Expression Engine or Wordpress and some hosts even include installation in their fees. Examples of a simple blogs can be found here or here or here.
A professional blog is one that is usually incorporated into a commercial or small business WebSite and it is geared towards sharing information about the company or for help desks. Often, people may have a personal blog that doubles as a professional blog, especially if they happen to be doing their own business, such as an author, an artist or an entertainer. That would be considered a "professional blog". Some examples of professional blogs can be found here , here, and here.
Top
Can you give me references?
We are very happy to give references, please ask us
Top
Why do I need a website?
A website is an excellent way of promoting almost any business and a well designed and planned site should have a marked impact on sales. Customers will see it as a central point of information and, as the content can be change rapidly and easily it's a great way to keep in contact.
Top
Where do I start?
Picking a new WebSite to spend your money on can be totally overwhelming. Let us help. Simply get in contact. Jolly Moon can discuss any initial questions you may have and our consultations are free. If you would like to email us: success@jollymoon.com and will we reply shortly.
Top
Why should I re-design my website?
Websites can age quickly, and a fresh look can boost customer interest in the product or services you supply. During the dot com boom many websites where designed quickly and poorly by inexperienced companies, many of whom are no longer in business. Jolly Moon can repair technical problems in your current site, incorporate additional features and bring the design up to current web standards.
Top
How much control do I have over the design?
We believe in open and honest approach works best, so at every stage of the design and implementation your feedback is sought and any changes incorporated. What happens if I don't like the design? Jolly Moon works on every design until you are completely satisfied and you will able to view your website before it goes live. No website goes online before final client approval.
Top
Search Engines?
Why can't I be found by search engines such as Google? There are many reasons for poor search engine results. These could include the website having poorly structured content or improperly targeted keywords. How can you help me? We have a large file of information and current trends in SEO optimization. It is monumentally complicated and know one really knows ultimately how it works. Jolly Moon does a basic Search submission for your webpage as part of your proposal. If you must have a top ten on the four or five major search engines to sell your product, we can steer you with great help. You won't beat IBM, Apple, Ford, Rock Music, etc. They pay 1,000's and 1,000's per day to stay number one.
Top
Domains & Hosting?
A domain name is the address of your site - such as www.bluemonkeymusic.com . To own that name you must register and pay a small fee every 1 to 10 years. We will register domain names on a client's behalf with no additional service charge as part of a purchased package or we can help you transfer your WebSite to a better hoster.
Top
Ecommerce and Shopping Carts
I would like to sell products directly online, can you help? We can build custom e-commerce websites, or you can use many easy e-commerce tools. Will I be able to update the products myself? Yes. All Jolly Moon's ecommerce WebSites come with an administration section that allows you to update product content including images. Other features are:
- Add and maintain users who have purchased products or signed up.
- View and maintain customer orders.
- Maintain stock levels including an automatic ordering.
- Add delivery charges for individual zones or even countries.
- Specify a range of special offers.
- Mass emailings to your registered users.
- And much, much more.
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