So you've decided to introduce your small business to the digital world by launching a website—congratulations! You have chosen to join the league of forward-looking entrepreneurs who have harnessed this valuable resource to facilitate online sales and promote their products and services.
Considering 94% of first impressions come from web design, it's essential to harness the power of design to ensure your business thrives online. Even more so, 95% of internet users access the internet via their mobile phones, emphasizing mobile responsiveness.
This is precisely why website design is so important. In the case of mobile responsiveness, it is a trend that doesn't seem will stop any time soon.
Moreover, website development takes time, effort, and resources. So you might want to know whether you should develop it or get expert services. Getting the services of a web development agency is the best route if you have the funds, time, and the right team to take on the project.
- Top 10 Website Design Companies for Your Small Business
- 1. DIGITECH
- 2. Blue Archer
- 3. HigherVisibility
- 4. Azuro Digital
- 5. GrayCyan
- 6. ScienceSoft
- 7. Sunrise Integration
- 8. Visualwebz
- 9. Storm Brain
- 10. DotLogics
- Should I Build My Own or Hire an Agency or Freelancer?Â
- How Long Does it Take to Build a Website?
- 5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Web Design Agency
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Top 10 Website Design Companies for Your Small Business
If you’re searching for a professional service provider to build your website, consider the list below to help determine your options.
Company Name | Strength | Star Rating | Pricing |
DIGITECH | Best for a collaborative, fast-forward approach | TrustAnalytica: 5, BrightLocal: 5 | Website has no fee details, but its "Contact Us" page asks for your budget |
Blue Archer | Best for cost-effective, self-managing websites | Clutch: 5, BrightLocal: 5 | Starts at $8,500 |
Higher Visibility | Best for SEO focus and responsive design | Design Rush: 5, Good Firms: 5 | Website has no fee details, but its Free Quote page asks you to indicate your estimated monthly budget (starting range is $300-$750 monthly) |
Azuro Digital | Best for specialized handling by a small team | Clutch: 5, Good Firms: 5 | Starts at $25,000 |
GrayCyan | Best for eCommerce and “rescue” assistance | DesignRush: 5, Clutch: 5 | Website has no fee details, but review sites peg the minimum at $1,000+ (DesignRush, Tigren, and Cloudways) |
ScienceSoft | Best for AI and AR-enhanced websites | G2: 5, WebDesignRankings: 5 | Starts at $15K (platform-based development) and $70K (custom development) |
Sunrise Integration
| Best for Shopify store owners | Clutch: 5, DesignRush: 5 | Website has no fee details, but hourly rates start between $50 and $100 according to Dev Technosys |
Visualwebz | Best for quick, industry-compliant output | UpCity: 5; Clutch: 5 | Website offers no payment details. However, their "Request a Quote" page has a dropdown menu for specifying your budget, with the lowest being "below $1K." |
StormBrain | Best for online merchants with ADA compliance needs | Clutch: 5; DesignRush: 5 | Website has no fee details, but review sites peg the minimum at $5,000 (Clutch) to $10,000+ (DesignRush) |
DotLogics | Best for personalization | Clutch: 5; DesignRush: 5 | Website has no fee details, but project cost may start at $25K, according to Hostinger |
1. DIGITECH
Founded: 2011
Location: Austin, Texas, USA
Best for: Small to large businesses seeking user-centric website designs with built-in SEO capabilities
DIGITECH Web Design, based in Austin, Texas, is a premier web design and SEO agency that has been crafting stunning websites since 2011. Their mission is to create websites that are not only visually appealing but also strategically built to convert visitors into customers. DIGITECH’s approach to web design is deeply rooted in understanding user personas and ensuring that every site they build is optimized for organic SEO from the ground up.
DIGITECH offers a wide range of services, from web design and development to branding and digital marketing. Their expertise in SEO is particularly notable, leveraging advanced techniques such as Entity SEO and digital PR to help clients outrank their competitors in even the most competitive markets.
Why choose them: DIGITECH is an ideal choice for businesses looking to enhance their online presence through a combination of beautifully designed websites and powerful SEO strategies. Their proven track record, which includes working with high-profile clients like Universal Music Group and Cookeville Regional Medical Center, showcases their ability to deliver results across industries.
Key Services
- Website Design & Development
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- Branding & Identity Design
- Paid Digital Marketing
Client Highlights
DIGITECH has an impressive portfolio, with successful projects that range from a global rebrand for Universal Music Group to a new, user-friendly digital experience for Cookeville Regional Medical Center.
2. Blue Archer
Founded: 1999
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses seeking a full-service digital partner for web design, custom software development, and marketing
Blue Archer is a seasoned digital agency based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over two decades of experience in delivering tailored web design, software development, and marketing solutions. Their core mission is to provide practical, results-driven services that align with your business objectives, helping you grow and thrive in your industry.
Blue Archer’s comprehensive approach begins with a sound strategy, ensuring that each project is planned and executed to meet your specific needs. Their services range from building modular, flexible websites that scale with your business to developing custom software applications that streamline operations and boost ROI. Whether you’re in manufacturing, nonprofit, legal, or any other sector, Blue Archer’s diverse expertise makes them an ideal choice for your digital needs.
Why choose them: Blue Archer stands out for their client-focused approach, offering practical solutions without the pressure of overselling. With a strong emphasis on communication and a proven track record across various industries, they ensure your project stays on budget and on schedule. Their extensive experience since 1999 allows them to deliver web designs that are not only visually appealing but also strategically aligned with your business goals.
Key Services
- Website Design & Development
- Custom Software Applications
- User Experience (UX) Design
- Content Management Systems (CMS)
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- E-Commerce Development
- Branding & Logo Design
- Measurement & Evaluation
- Support & Maintenance
- Security & Hosting
Client Highlights
Blue Archer has partnered with a diverse range of clients, delivering exceptional digital solutions tailored to each industry. Notable projects include the development of a modern, responsive website with comprehensive e-commerce functionality for Myers Poultry, and a visually engaging, user-friendly site for Brentwood Bank.
Their work across sectors like nonprofit, manufacturing, legal, and real estate demonstrates their ability to create customized solutions that drive business success.
3. HigherVisibility
Founded: 2009
Location: Memphis, Tennessee, USA
Best for: Small businesses needing high-conversion, SEO-friendly web designs
HigherVisibility is an award-winning web design agency that specializes in creating clean, high-converting websites tailored for small businesses. Located in Memphis, Tennessee, their design philosophy revolves around optimizing user experience, improving search engine rankings, and ensuring that your website stands out from the competition.
HigherVisibility’s comprehensive service offerings include custom web design, responsive layouts, and SEO-focused development. They are particularly well-suited for small businesses looking to improve conversion rates, reduce bounce rates, and solve common web design challenges such as slow page loading speeds and poor search rankings.
Why choose them: HigherVisibility is an excellent choice for small businesses seeking to revamp their online presence with a professionally designed, SEO-friendly website. Their team of design experts works closely with clients to deliver a hassle-free design process, ensuring that the final product not only looks great but also functions optimally to convert visitors into paying customers.
Key Services
- Custom Web Design
- Responsive Web Design
- SEO-Friendly Development
- Conversion Optimization
- WordPress CMS
- Ecommerce Platform Integration
- Superior WordPress Hosting
- Monthly Maintenance Packages
Client Highlights
HigherVisibility has a proven track record of success, with notable projects including a 36% increase in conversion rate for Lawn Doctor, a 58% YOY increase in organic traffic for Allied Van Lines, and a remarkable 329% YOY increase in conversions for Fitness 19. These results demonstrate HigherVisibility’s ability to deliver tangible improvements in online performance for their clients.
4. Azuro Digital
Founded: 2018
Location: Ottawa, Canada
Best for: Small businesses seeking a results-driven web design agency that prioritizes conversions, SEO, and digital strategy.
Azuro Digital is a dynamic web design agency specializing in creating beautiful, high-conversion websites for small businesses. Their focus is clear—delivering results that not only impress but also drive revenue.
Azuro Digital’s service offerings are comprehensive, covering custom web design, WordPress development, branding, copywriting, and digital marketing. What sets them apart is their commitment to client success, as evidenced by the numerous awards they’ve won and the glowing testimonials from satisfied customers.
Why choose them: Azuro Digital is an excellent choice for small businesses that want a website that performs. With a track record of significantly increasing conversion rates and consistently ranking clients at the top of Google, they are a trusted partner for businesses looking to maximize their online presence.
Key Services
- Custom Web Design & Development
- WordPress Development & Maintenance
- Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO)
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- Branding & Logo Design
- Content Strategy & Copywriting
- Digital Marketing & Consulting
Client Highlights
Azuro Digital boasts a robust portfolio of successful projects across various industries. Notable examples include a complete website overhaul for ConductLaw, resulting in a 60% higher conversion rate, and an SEO-driven project for COCO Tile that secured a consistent #1 ranking on Google. Their clients, like Michele Kennedy of Gump Training, praise Azuro Digital as the best marketing decision they’ve made, underlining the agency’s impact on their business success.
5. GrayCyan
Founded: 2018
Location: Mississauga, Canada | Hartford, United States
Best for: Small businesses seeking comprehensive digital solutions that blend web design, digital marketing, and software development.
GrayCyan stands out as a versatile web design agency dedicated to small business owners who need more than just a website—they need a digital partner. With headquarters in Mississauga, ON, and Hartford, CT, GrayCyan specializes in creating high-converting websites, robust digital marketing strategies, and innovative software solutions that drive business growth.
GrayCyan’s service offerings encompass everything from website design to full-scale digital marketing and custom software, SaaS, and app development. Their holistic approach ensures that every digital experience is not only visually appealing but also results-driven, designed to increase traffic, generate leads, and ultimately, boost revenue.
Why choose them: GrayCyan is an excellent choice for small businesses that want to streamline their digital efforts under one roof. By integrating web design, digital marketing, and software development, GrayCyan provides a cohesive and strategic approach to online growth. Their track record includes impressive metrics such as a 191% year-over-year traffic increase for a distributor and $11.5 million in business generated for their clients.
Key Services
- Website Design & Development
- Digital Marketing (SEO, PPC, Social Media)
- Custom Software, SaaS, & App Development
- eCommerce Solutions
- B2B & B2C Lead Generation
Client Highlights
GrayCyan boasts an impressive portfolio of successful projects across various industries. Notable collaborations include a significant website redesign and SEO overhaul for Livinglies, a comprehensive digital marketing and web design project for Bear Springs, and a cutting-edge B2B eCommerce platform for Tool Academy.
Each project reflects their commitment to delivering digital experiences that are both intuitive and effective, helping clients like Vintage Jewelry Trade transform their vision into a captivating online presence.
GrayCyan is more than just a service provider; they are a trusted partner in your digital journey, ready to drive engagement and online sales through expertly crafted digital experiences. Whether you’re looking to redesign your website, amplify your online marketing efforts, or develop a custom software solution, GrayCyan is equipped to help your business succeed.
6. ScienceSoft
Best for AI and AR-enhanced websites
ScienceSoft offers full-cycle development that spans consulting, website development, mobile app development, integration with third-party systems, and after-launch support, such as user training and continuous website management. It can deliver innovative customer-enhancing features, such as AI-driven chatbots and personalization, voice-controlled navigation, AR-powered learning programs and user manuals, crypto payments, and live video consultations.
The company’s projects since 2005 include vendor websites (for manufacturers and non-manufacturers), B2B sites, self-service sites, customer portals, employee sites, patient or telehealth portals, eCommerce and sales sites, eLearning websites, community portals, and BFSI (banking, financial services, and insurance) websites.
This Dallas-based firm is transparent about its workflow: the agency takes two to eight weeks to create a prototype. Meanwhile, it can present the first working portal version in three to four months.
7. Sunrise Integration
Best for Shopify store owners
Sunrise Integration’s brand and UI/UX designers have over 23 years of existence in creating portals for B2B and D2C eCommerce firms in consumer packaged goods, fashion, lifestyle, software, entertainment, and more. In particular, its team has provided Shopify store creation and redesign services since 2014.
Its services include strategic ideation, UX design and mockups, graphic design, mobile-centric and fully responsive layout, ADA and WCAG accessibility compliance, user testing, and conversion optimization.
This Los Angeles firm can integrate AI and machine learning technologies into your portal’s text generation, image detection, content moderation, and other functions.
8. Visualwebz
Best for quick, industry-compliant output
Visualwebz promises the delivery of a “simple” five-page website with up to 10 external links and e-mail setup in 48 hours. However, it recommends a comprehensive solution that includes content writing, ad campaigns, and analytic reporting in the long run.
This Seattle agency, which started operating in 2008, delivers websites built primarily on WordPress and ensures compliance with the Web Hypertext Application Technology
Working Group (WHATWG). The group sets HTML standards, which if properly followed, allow webpages to appear correctly on different browsers. Moreover, Visualwebz uses trusted digital certifications such as DigiCert or Global Sign or one issued by your on-premise private enterprise to ensure a secure browsing experience (encryption and authentication).
The company also offers graphic design (for new and “redesign” projects) and video/animation services for animated logos, interactive pages, and 3D promo videos.
9. Storm Brain
Best for online merchants with accessibility (ADA) needs
Storm Brain enables clients to “take their industries by storm” through market research and competitor analysis-backed ideation. Insights from this initial step allow their team to propose a design that aligns with your vision, resulting in a beautifully interactive and SEO-friendly website that’s “sticky” or highly engaging with customers.
This San Diego internet marketing company’s web development service suite includes mobile responsive design, eCommerce web design, ADA compliance, user experience design, managed website hosting, and maintenance. Its expertise in linking your site to various CMS platforms can streamline your campaigns and help you optimize experiences on your customers’ preferred platforms. From brand strategy to visual design and analytics, Storm Brain’s team has you covered.
10. DotLogics
Best for personalization
DotLogics’ formula for boosting customer confidence is to produce customer-centric content and action-provoking design, ensuring they align with your growth goals. To make this happen, the agency provides creative advisory, style guide development, wireframes, mockups, content strategy, and content writing.
DotLogics’ team holds a discovery session with you to understand your business better by going through your organization’s history, current marketing strategy, business objectives, and brand guidelines. If you have an existing website, the company will study customer segmentation and visitor analytics to help you refine target personas and your value proposition.
This New York-based firm’s services also include competitor analysis, UX/UI improvements, and visual design and photography to make your site drive more conversions.
Should I Build My Own or Hire an Agency or Freelancer?
Deciding to have a business website is a significant step, considering that 27% of startups have yet to operate their site for their respective reasons. But with 252,000 new sites launched on the internet daily, the challenge is for your website to be unique and effective enough to garner repeat visits and purchases.
Three-quarters of consumers equate the quality of a company's website to its trustworthiness. Moreover, your visitors' first impression of your site gets formed in 50 milliseconds upon viewing it. Hence, website building involves thoughtful planning and execution.
Here are some points to consider when deciding whether to develop it yourself or get third-party help.
Use a website builder or CMS if:
- You have design experience and prefer to be directly involved in the design process.
- You only need a simple website.
- You want to launch the site quickly.
- You seek a more affordable option.
Choose a freelance designer if:
- Your budget is sufficient for a one-person design job.
- You find an expert who is flexible enough to accommodate your timeline.
- You want to avoid any long-term commitments, which some design firms may require.
Hire a web design company if:
- You have a sizable budget for the project.
- Your sales are growing fast.
- You can wait a few weeks or even months for the final product.
- You have a brand strategy but prefer someone else to create a unique design and a better user experience.
- Your site appears outdated and needs a refresh.
How Long Does it Take to Build a Website?
The average time it takes to complete a website depends on various factors. They include your site-building method (using a website builder, a content management system or CMS, a design agency, or through coding), the kind of website you need (blog, business/corporate or eCommerce site), the size (number of pages), design complexity (including the number of features required), the time it takes to get content, feedback, and approvals, and the amount of search engine optimization (SEO) needed.
Website building can take from six hours using a website builder with pre-made templates to six months.
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Web Design Agency
How would you know which design studio is a good fit for your envisioned small business website? Be sure you’ve done the following steps before finalizing your choice:
1. Know Your Requirements
List your "must-haves" and non-deal breakers before calling or meeting prospective design groups. Identifying your needs will prevent you from forgetting your priorities. To help you vet candidates, make one list of non-negotiables, such as responsive design, specific functionalities such as registration and online payment systems, and integration with your current office systems, particularly your CMS. SEO, fast loading time, mobile-friendliness, and campaign tracking features should also be part of this list if you want a competent online presence.
Then make another list of "good-to-have" qualities, such as secure hosting, content creation, and logo design.
2. Decide on Your Budget and Timeline
Set a cost range instead of a single figure, and remember to verify what comes with your package. If you foresee seeking other services, such as photography and videography, ask how much you must pay for additional work.
Moreover, you must tell the agency if you have a hard deadline for the site's launch so they can assess if they can deliver. Ask what challenges they foresee in working with your timeline and what steps they’ll take if they're running behind.
3. Research
Your background check should cover the prospect's experience and portfolio. While its years in operation, skills, and level of expertise matter, you must choose an agency with thorough knowledge in your domain. A good design firm explains its specialization. Its representatives can honestly answer when you ask how familiar they are with your business type.
You should also review their portfolio and case studies to determine if the agency has worked with clients like you, including your rivals. Evaluate their solutions, quality, and how they met their customer's expectations. Case studies typically feature stats related to website traffic, visit duration, conversions, sales, and reduced bounce rate achieved after launching or refreshing a website.
Don’t forget to read reviews and comments on your prospect's social channels.
4. Contact the Agency to Set Up a Meeting
If possible, call the design studio to get a feel of their communication style. Website design can take a while and your future partner should be accessible, friendly, and sensitive to your needs.
During your phone call, note the kind of questions they ask—if the representative takes the time to know about your company or makes a hard sell right away.
5. Verify Post-development Support
You'll eventually need to add fresh written content and images to your new website. Your company also needs to measure the portal's performance. Determine what assistance or training your partner agency offers after the site launch.
Conclusion
Choosing the right web design agency is crucial for your small business's online success. Consider your needs, budget, and timeline to find a partner that can deliver a website that not only looks great but also drives results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a web designer cost for a small business?
Costs vary, but expect to pay between $1,000 and $10,000+, depending on the complexity and features needed.
How much is a website builder for small business?
Website builders typically range from $10 to $50 per month, with additional costs for premium features.
How much does it cost to hire a designer to build a website?
Hiring a designer can cost from $2,500 to $25,000, depending on the project's scope and customization.