Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We've got answers. Here are some common questions about web design, development, and working with Webscape.
How much does a website cost in Christchurch?
Website costs vary depending on what you need. A simple brochure site might start around a few thousand dollars, while a custom web app or complex e-commerce site will cost more. We'll chat about your project and give you a clear quote based on what you actually need. No hidden fees, no surprises.
How long does it take to build a website?
Timeline depends on the project. A simple website might take 4-6 weeks from start to finish. More complex sites or web apps can take 8-12 weeks or longer. We'll give you a realistic timeline upfront and keep you updated throughout the process. Rush jobs are possible but cost more.
Do I need to be in Christchurch to work with you?
No, you don't. Webscape is based in Christchurch, but we work with clients all over New Zealand. Most of our work happens online anyway, so location isn't a barrier. We can meet in person if you're local, or we'll work remotely if you're elsewhere. Either way works.
What areas do you service?
We're based in Christchurch, Canterbury, and work with clients across New Zealand. From Auckland to Queenstown, if you need web design, development, or SEO services, we can help. We work remotely with clients wherever they are.
What's the difference between WordPress and a custom web app?
WordPress is great for content-heavy sites like blogs, business websites, or online stores. It's easy to manage and update yourself. Custom web apps are better when you need specific functionality beyond content management - like booking systems, dashboards, or custom tools. We'll help you figure out which fits your needs.
Do you use templates or build custom?
We build everything custom. No templates, no pre-made themes. Every site starts from scratch, designed and coded specifically for your project. That means you get something unique that actually fits your business, not something that looks like everyone else's site.
Will my website work on mobile phones?
Yes, absolutely. Every site we build is mobile-first and fully responsive. It'll look great and work properly on phones, tablets, and desktops. Most people browse on their phones these days, so mobile-friendly isn't optional.
How long does SEO take?
SEO takes time. You'll usually see some ranking improvements in 3 to 6 months. Significant traffic increases typically take 6 to 12 months. SEO is a long-term investment, not a quick fix. Anyone who promises instant results is making promises they can't keep.
Can I update my website myself?
Yes, if you want to. We build sites with content management systems so you can update content, add pages, and make changes yourself. We'll train you on how to use it and provide documentation. Of course, we're still here if you need help or want us to handle updates.
What happens after my website launches?
We don't just launch and disappear. We offer ongoing support and maintenance to keep everything running smoothly. That includes updates, security monitoring, backups, and help when you need it. You can also come back for new features or changes as your business grows.
Do you guarantee results?
We don't make guarantees we can't keep. SEO depends on many factors we can't control, like your competition and Google's algorithm changes. Website performance depends on your content and marketing efforts. What we do promise is honest work, clear communication, and building something that works well.
What if I need changes after launch?
No problem. We offer ongoing support and can make changes, add features, or help with updates. Small content changes are usually quick. Bigger feature additions will be quoted separately. We're here when you need us.
Do you build e-commerce websites?
Yes, we build online stores using WooCommerce. We can create custom e-commerce sites with payment gateways, inventory management, shipping options, and everything else you need to sell online. Check out our WooCommerce development service for more details.
Will my website be fast?
Yes. Fast sites aren't optional - they're essential. We optimise everything from code efficiency to image loading, database queries to caching. Your site will load quickly and run smoothly, which helps with both user experience and search rankings.
Do you provide hosting?
We don't provide hosting ourselves, but we can recommend reliable hosting providers that work well with the sites we build. We'll help you set everything up and make sure your site is configured properly.
What if I already have a website?
We can work with existing sites. We can redesign them, rebuild them, add new features, or just help with maintenance and updates. We'll assess what you've got and figure out the best approach - whether that's improving what's there or starting fresh.
Can you help with my existing WordPress site?
Absolutely. We can update it, secure it, optimise it, add new features, or help with maintenance. We also offer WordPress hack cleanup if your site has been compromised. Whatever you need, we can help.
How do I know if I need a website or a web app?
If you mainly need to show information, have a blog, or run an online store, a website is probably what you need. If you need specific functionality like booking systems, dashboards, admin panels, or custom tools, a web app might be better. We'll chat about what you're trying to achieve and recommend the right solution.
Do you work with small businesses?
Yes, absolutely. We work with businesses of all sizes, from small local businesses to larger organisations. Being small ourselves, we understand what small businesses need - something that works well without breaking the bank.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept bank transfers and can discuss payment terms that work for your project. Usually, we'll split payments across milestones - a deposit to start, progress payments, and final payment on completion.
Can you help with SEO after my site launches?
Yes, we offer SEO services including technical SEO, content optimisation, and ongoing support. We can help improve your search rankings and get your site found on Google. Check out our SEO services page for more details.
What happens if I'm not happy with the design?
We work closely with you throughout the design process, so you'll see and approve everything before we build it. If something's not right, we'll revise it. Our goal is to create something you're happy with, so we'll keep iterating until it's right.
Do you offer training on how to use my website?
Yes. We'll train you on how to use your content management system so you can update content, add pages, and make changes yourself. We provide documentation and walk you through everything. You'll have full control over your site.
Can you integrate my website with other services?
Yes, we can integrate with payment gateways, CRMs, email marketing tools, booking systems, and more. We've built integrations with various services and can connect your site to whatever you're already using.
What's your process for building a website?
We start with a chat about what you're trying to achieve. Then we design something custom for your project. Once you approve the design, we build it with clean code. We test everything, launch it, and provide training and support. We'll keep you updated throughout the process.
Do you build websites for specific industries?
We've worked with various industries - from arts organisations to builders, non-profits to e-commerce stores. We don't specialise in one industry, but we understand that different industries have different needs. We'll learn about your industry and build something that fits.
How do I get started?
Just get in touch. We'll have a chat about your project, figure out what you need, and give you a quote. No sales pitch, just a conversation about how we can help. Fill out our contact form or email us at hello@webscape.co.nz.
Still have questions?
Can't find what you're looking for? Let's chat. We'll answer your questions and figure out how we can help with your project.
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