How do I find the best and most cost-effective website development firms?

By Lena West

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

I'm going to be starting a music entertainment label and need some referrals on the best and most cost-effective website development firm.

While the phone book is great for finding the nearest dry cleaner, you might want to think twice about�searching there to find the web development company that's right for you.

The best thing to do is to ask for recommendations from people who share similar business values and who have websites that you like. Chances are if you like their website, you'll like the results you get from their developer too. But check in with the website owner first.

Before you do that you might want to make a list of all the things you want your website to do so that you are able to communicate the skill set you're looking for in a developer. Then make a list of all the 'soft skills' you want the developer to have - attention to detail, responsive and being�self-motivated are all�traits for a good�web developer.

Good luck!

Lena West is the CEO and Chief Strategist of xynoMedia Technology, a New York-based firm that helps high-growth companies leverage the power of social media, blogs, podcasts and online communities.

Editor's Pick

Related Topics

Business News

People Are Eager to Go to Europe. But a 'Strange and Humiliating' Requirement Is Derailing Travel Plans.

There aren't enough resources to keep up with the demand — and it's causing major problems.

Business News

Tech CEO, 26, Found Dead in Suspected Murder

Pava LaPere founded EcoMap Technologies in December 2018.

Business News

Target Will Close 9 Stores Across 4 States Due to Ongoing Crime That's 'Threatening the Safety' of Customers and Employees

Target stated that it "invested heavily" in efforts to combat crime, but it just didn't work.

Business News

8 People Hospitalized on JetBlue Flight Headed to Florida Due to Turbulence

The turbulent conditions occurred near Jamaica on a flight coming from Ecuador.

Growing a Business

How to Navigate Ethical Considerations In Your Decision-Making

Business decisions often involve weighing ethics against profits. Find ways with a few tips to prioritize ethics and build trust with employees and customers.

Growing a Business

Innovation or Extinction — Why Complacency Is the Real Business Killer (and How to Foster an Innovative Culture)

Here are 10 ways to foster innovation in your company and why it's critical for your business's survival.