I’ve had this question asked to me several times and I get why it can be frustrating for a client to be expecting to pay one amount for a site and then to have things added to the cost. However, as a designer/developer this is something that is essential for me to ask for. Here are some reasons why your website build can cost more than the estimate…
Constant revisions
Harking back to the getting your content prepared before you build your site blog, the need for constant revisions can increase your web design cost.
You might think that it’s only a word here or there; or maybe changing the logo, the images, etc., however for every change there is time and effort in assuring that the design works for what is requested.
Every time something is changed, it takes time and effort. If that is then changed again, it’s more time and effort.
I will always include a certain amount of small revisions in my builds, but once you hit that limit I will start asking you to pay for further.
Completely changing the layout
This builds on the previous reason, when small changes are actually large changes which dramatically change the layout.
Again, the time and effort required in making sure that the new design works requires additional payment to compensate.
Out of scope work
Sometimes, the work required to make sure that the scope is met requires additional coding and fixes to make it fit the original design. In this instance, it requires a lot more effort to build than originally thought and a larger skill set to accommodate.
In this instance, when it looks like it will take more than what was originally scoped, a discussion will be had to see how you as a client would like to proceed. Is the layout needed to be met exactly? Or can adjustments be made that will make it work?
If it’s needed to be met exactly, then an additional amount would be charged.
More pages
Last minute inclusion of additional pages will also receive an additional cost as it requires more work than what was originally quoted.
Paid Themes/Plugins
Depending on the desire of the client, I may need to purchase a theme or plugin to ensure that the functionality requested is met. Sometimes, it’s known beforehand what the costs will be and they will be included within the original quotation. Other times, it’s not known until after the build has started and in that instance, I will purchase the item and then invoice for that amount in addition to the remaining costs; or I will ask the client to purchase it and then give me access to the API key.
In most instances, it comes down to the need of the client changing beyond what was originally expected. I know that things happen and design needs can change, however this is also a business and I expect to be paid for the work and effort I put into my creations.
Where ever possible, I will ensure that prices are reasonable and that other alternates are raised for consideration, yet I know that it’s not always possible.
Just remember, that when a designer/developer asks for extra money that there is always a reason for it and they’ve usually tried everything else to get around it.
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