Why Is Internal Research Essential for Web Designers and Developers?

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As web designers and developers, we don’t just provide websites, we provide solutions. The best solutions, however, can only be provided if you know what your client needs. To get more clients, you need to position your service as a solution. That’s what internal research is for.

When done well, you will retain clients because you off page seo service position yourself as an expert and convert leads into a project proposal. Think of it as a way to meet the client’s needs.

So, what does an internal survey need to look like? Let’s explore the best practices for conducting one with a client, along with a step-by-step guide.




What is an internal survey?
Building websites and apps depends on two stages: design and development. But there is another point that is crucial in the design process, as it discovers all the needs and objectives.

Internal research, usually a meeting that goes into more in-depth questions, ensures that you and your client are on the same page regarding the scope of the project as you figure out together all the pieces that will make the two aforementioned steps a success.

It’s tempting to make the initial conversation with a lead to gather information about internal research, but it’s not. Meetings held before monetary transactions should be used to assess whether the project is a good fit and whether research is needed.

How do you know when you need to do it? A great way is to find out if the client has already thought about their needs, goals, and vision before the conversation.

Use internal survey questions to assess whether the project is ready to go. If you walk away from the initial communication still uncertain about some aspect (vision, role, or goals), then you need to address it.

Starting to do the internal research
Now that you understand what it is, let’s take a look at how to adapt it to your process. Ready? Let’s get started!

Adding to the process
Internal research should be a paid part of your process that happens after the initial phone call and before you begin design or development . You can add it to your client proposal that includes other services and phases, or you can separate it out as a separate project.

Either way, this is more than a meeting, even if it’s done that way — by phone, video, or in person.

So you are using all your years of experience with other projects to help guide the client in selecting what they want and what they don't, almost like a consultant.

Involving important people
This means the decision makers, not their assistants. Not only is it important for improving communication, but it allows you to position yourself for those who will move the project forward.

When done well, including an internal survey will encourage your leads to continue working with you on your site. After all, it shows that you care about the results and are taking care of your investment to ensure it is a success.

Pricing
Internal research shouldn’t be free. It involves your time and expertise. You’re helping guide the client to define pieces of the project that they didn’t have when they first came to you.