How long does it take to build a website (2024)?
To answer this question you first need to ask yourself ‘What expectations do you have for your website?’
Are you an established business needing an ultra upgrade, or are you in the early stages of launching and need something simple and manageable to get you going? Websites can really take however long you need them to, depending on your wants and needs. But, don’t worry - I’m not going to fob you off with a wishy washy answer to this question! Let’s break this down into different scenarios to help you make a plan when thinking about your website.
1 - You need an all singing, all dancing, animated, custom website with 20 pages
For a fully bespoke, built from scratch website you should allow 8+ weeks. This allows time for research, content planning, full design mock up, revisions, build out with custom CSS code, multi screen size optimisation, tweaks and testing. The longer time frame gives you space to review your website at every stage of the process, request alternative options or design styles, and make your website absolutely perfect.
Things to be aware of with longer projects - your web designer will most likely be working on multiple projects at any one time.
2 - You need a semi-custom website with 5+ pages
Some designers offer a website in a week, but with me it’s a Website in One Day. This hybrid option is perfect if you don’t have months to wait for a website, but you still want something bespoke. We work together exclusively for the duration of the project, there is time available to prioritise design and revisions, and you are able to launch your website.. fast!
Things to be aware of - The benefit of this service is speed and style, so if you like having time to make decisions, or need a website with lots of customisations, this may not be the best option for you.
3 - You’re a new business and need something to get you started
If your priority is having somewhere to refer potential clients to, and a website that you can manage and update yourself, a half-day microsite (1-page scrolling website) could be the thing for you. With intensive sessions you will work with your web designer exclusively for the duration of the booking, meaning tweaks and changes can be actioned quickly. There will be less time available to think over decisions and see alternatives, so it is beneficial to do some research in advance (hello Pinterest!) so you have an idea of styles you like (and don’t).
Things to be aware of - You need to be a quick decision maker, and contactable throughout the session to get the most out of your time.
Websites can be designed, built and launched within a number of time frames, but knowing what are priorities and what are ‘nice to haves’ with your website will help determine which designer, and which service may be best for you.
