Frequently Asked Questions

Forte websites range from $1,000 to $20,000 depending on complexity. A simple brochure site starts from around $1,500, a full business site from $3,500, and e-commerce from $5,000. Every project gets a fixed quote upfront — no surprises when we invoice.

A standard business website typically takes 4–8 weeks from sign-off to launch. Simpler sites can be done in 2–3 weeks; more complex builds may take 10–14 weeks. We agree a realistic timeline at the start of every project and stick to it.

Hosting and domain renewal are the only ongoing costs — typically $200–$400 per year. We offer optional maintenance plans, but there's no mandatory retainer. You choose what ongoing support, if any, you want from us.

We work on a 50% deposit to start, with the balance due on launch. For larger projects we can split into three payments. Bank transfer or credit card accepted.

Free intro call → proposal with fixed quote → 50% deposit to start → discovery and wireframes → design rounds with your feedback → development → testing → launch and training. You're involved throughout and nothing moves forward without your sign-off.

Yes. Every site includes a training session so you can update text, images, blog posts, and pages yourself without needing to call us every time. We also provide written handover notes so you have something to refer back to.

You own everything — the domain, the hosting account, the design, and all the code. We don't retain any ownership or hold anything over you. If you decide to move to a different developer down the track, the whole site goes with you.

It depends on what's right for your project. We build on WordPress for most business sites (it's widely used, easy to manage, and well-supported), custom HTML/CSS/JS for performance-critical builds, and custom frameworks for web applications. We'll recommend the right tool for your situation.

We can provide basic brand guidance and work with your existing logo. For full brand identity design, we work with trusted local designers and can manage that process as part of your project if needed.

Basic on-page SEO is included with every build — title tags, meta descriptions, heading structure, clean URLs, XML sitemap, and Google Search Console setup. Ongoing SEO campaigns (keyword targeting, link building, content strategy) are a separate service.

Honestly — it varies. For local Hobart searches with lower competition, we typically see meaningful movement within 3–6 months. More competitive terms can take 6–12 months. We'll give you a realistic picture before you commit to anything.

We currently specialise in organic SEO and social media advertising (Facebook/Instagram). For Google Ads management we can refer you to a trusted partner in our network.

Yes. While most of our clients are in Hobart and across Tasmania, we work with businesses anywhere in Australia. Everything can be done via video call, email, and shared documents — location isn't a barrier.

To kick off we need: your logo (if you have one), any brand colours or style preferences, your existing domain login (if applicable), and the content for your site — text and images. We can help with content guidance if you're not sure where to start.

Every project includes two rounds of design revisions before development begins. We present concepts for your feedback and incorporate changes until you're happy. We don't start building until you've signed off on the design.

We offer optional ongoing maintenance covering plugin and CMS updates, security monitoring, backups, and minor content changes. Plans start from $80/month. Completely optional — many clients manage their sites themselves after training.