When choosing a web partner, colleges should ask questions regarding platform capabilities, accessibility standards, integration with existing systems, and support structures to ensure alignment with their goals.
Key Questions Colleges Should Ask
When selecting a web partner, it is crucial for colleges and universities to ensure that the agency understands their specific needs and challenges. Here are seven essential questions to ask:
- What platforms do you specialize in?
Understanding the agency's expertise in platforms like Drupal, WordPress, and others helps ensure they can deliver a website that aligns with your institution's technical requirements.
- How do you address accessibility compliance?
It's important for your web partner to comply with accessibility standards such as WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508. Ask about their process for ensuring accessibility in design and development.
- What content migration strategies do you employ?
Discuss how they will handle the transition from your current CMS to a new one, including data migration and content organization.
- How do you provide post-launch support and training?
Inquire about the training provided to staff for managing the website and the types of support available after the site goes live.
- Can you scale your solutions as our needs grow?
Understanding the scalability of the solution is essential to see if they can adapt to your needs over time, especially as technology evolves.
- What is your approach to SEO and AI search optimization?
Ensure the agency has a clear strategy for ongoing SEO and AI visibility, essential for attracting prospective students and engaging the community. For insights, refer to our article on AEO and its significance.
- What is your project management process?
It's important to know how they manage timelines, especially during the decision-making phase which often takes 2 to 6 months in higher education.
Frequently asked questions
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