Choosing the right web developer for your therapy practice is crucial. Her are some important factors that most therapists do not know:
- WordPress Developer Specialisation:
You don’t want a Web Developer to do a basic website. You want a WordPress Developer. It is an excellent platform for therapy websites due to its flexibility, ease of use, and extensive plugin ecosystem. A WordPress specialist will likely be more efficient and effective than a general web developer. - Marketing Expertise:
Technical skills alone aren’t enough. A developer with marketing knowledge can create a site that not only looks good but also converts visitors into clients. They should understand user experience (UX) design, call-to-action placement, and conversion rate optimisation. - Understanding Your Target Audience:
A good developer should ask about your ideal client. This information shapes the entire website strategy, from design choices to content structure and functionality. - Industry Knowledge:
Experience in the therapy or healthcare sector is invaluable. It means the developer understands the unique needs and regulations of your field, potentially saving time and avoiding costly mistakes. - Service Level Agreement (SLA):
An SLA clearly defines what services are included, setting clear expectations for both parties. This helps prevent scope creep and ensures you’re getting what you pay for. - Project Timeline:
A defined timeline keeps the project on track and helps you plan your marketing efforts around the website launch. - Comprehensive Service:
A developer who can offer additional services like image sourcing, content editing, and strategic guidance provides added value. Their willingness to challenge your ideas (respectfully and with explanation) shows they’re invested in your success, not just completing a transaction.
Additional Considerations: - Portfolio and References:
Ask to see examples of their work, particularly websites they’ve created for other therapists or healthcare professionals. - SEO Knowledge:
The developer should understand basic SEO principles to ensure your site is optimised for search engines from the start. - Mobile Responsiveness:
Ensure they prioritise mobile-friendly design, as many potential clients will view your site on smartphones. - Security Measures:
Given the sensitive nature of therapy, the developer should be well-versed in website security best practices. - Ongoing Support:
Discuss what kind of support they offer post-launch. Will they be available for updates, troubleshooting, or training you to manage the site? - Integration Capabilities:
If you use specific tools for scheduling, billing, or Telehealth, ensure the developer can integrate these into your website. - Accessibility Compliance:
Your website should be accessible to all potential clients, including those with disabilities. A good developer will be familiar with WCAG guidelines. - Loading Speed Optimisation:
Fast-loading pages are crucial for both user experience and SEO. The developer should be able to optimise your site for speed.
When interviewing potential developers, make sure you ask about these points. A professional who can address these considerations confidently is more likely to deliver a website that effectively supports and grows your practice. Remember, your website is often the first impression potential clients have of your practice, so it’s worth investing in a developer who can create a site that truly represents your professional brand and effectively attracts your ideal clients.
