How to choose the right web design agency
There are hundreds of web design agencies in Norway – from freelancers to large digital agencies. Some deliver brilliantly. Others disappear after taking your money. Here's a practical guide.
What should you ask?
Ask these questions to every agency you consider – and note the answers.
Can you show me websites you've built for similar businesses?
Portfolio is proof of competence. A good agency can quickly show relevant references.
What happens after the website is finished?
Ask specifically about support, maintenance and what costs extra. Many agencies make money on add-ons after delivery.
Who owns the code and domain?
You should own the domain and have access to the source code. Some agencies lock you into their own systems.
What is a realistic delivery time?
A simple website should take 2–6 weeks. Six months is too long. Get this in writing.
Is it fixed price or hourly billing?
Fixed price protects you from scope creep. Hourly billing can easily double the price.
Who will we work with directly?
Find out if you get a dedicated contact person. Large agencies pitch senior staff but deliver with juniors.
Red flags – avoid these mistakes
These signals mean you should think twice – or choose a different agency.
Unrealistically low price
A full website under 2,000 NOK is either an unadapted template or a disappearing act. Serious agencies start from 5,000–10,000 NOK.
No contract
Always get a written agreement. The contract should specify deliverables, timeline and price. Verbal agreements are not sufficient.
No references to show
Ask for 2–3 existing clients you can contact directly. A serious agency has satisfied customers who are willing to talk.
Pay everything upfront
The standard is 50% at kickoff and 50% on delivery. If you pay everything upfront, you have little leverage to ensure delivery.
Vague about SEO and Google
Ask specifically: what do you do for local visibility? If the answer is unclear, they probably do nothing.
Frequently asked questions
What does a website cost in Norway?
A simple business website typically costs 5,000–20,000 NOK. With booking and advanced functionality 15,000–50,000 NOK. Cheaper offers are often templates with little customisation.
Should I choose a local web design agency?
Not necessarily, but a local agency knows the Norwegian market, uses Norwegian payment solutions and understands local SEO. And it's easier to meet in person.
What is the difference between a website and an online shop?
A website informs and converts to contact. An online shop sells products directly. Some businesses need both – for example, show services + buy gift cards.
Do I need to update the website myself?
Ideally you should be able to update text and images yourself. A good agency gives you a simple admin panel and training.
What is most important to prioritise – design or SEO?
Both, but SEO must be built in from the start. Many agencies deliver beautiful websites that no one finds on Google. Ask specifically about local SEO setup.
Can I switch agencies after the website is finished?
Yes, if you own the code and domain. Check this in the contract. Some agencies deliberately make it difficult to move.
Considering working with us?
Great – call us at the number at the top, or send an email. We'll honestly answer all questions in the checklist, including the difficult ones.
Get in touch