FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
About Working With Design TLC
What types of organizations do you work with?
We specialize in independent schools, educational organizations, and nonprofits. Our team pairs strong design with practical functionality that fits small teams and real workflows.
What makes Design TLC different?
15+ years in WordPress for schools and nonprofits, a small responsive team, and a process that is organized and transparent. We take on limited projects to deliver personal attention and consistent results. We are nimble, talented problem-solvers who genuniely care about our clients and exceeding expectations!
How will we communicate and manage the project?
We use Google Drive for shared docs and run onboarding and review calls on Zoom. You will know what is next at each step and we record key meetings for reference.
Who is on our project team?
You will work directly with Tara Claeys as team lead, supported by our designer, developer, and client service associate.
Process
What happens in Discovery?
We align on goals, audiences, content needs, and technical requirements using an onboarding survey and a shared Google Doc that tracks notes and decisions.
Do you provide a formal strategy document?
We do not create a separate brief. Instead, your living Google Doc centralizes strategy, scope, and updates for the entire project.
What if the scope changes?
We will present a clear change order with updated scope and costs before proceeding.
WordPress and Features
Why WordPress?
It is flexible, secure, and widely supported. Your team can edit content easily and scale with plugins and integrations that fit your needs.
Can we edit the site ourselves?
Yes. We build with Beaver Builder and Beaver Themer so non-technical staff can update pages confidently. We include training and a written guide.
Do you build directories, calendars, and forms?
Yes. Common features include staff directories, events calendars, and Gravity Forms for inquiries or donations. We integrate with platforms like Blackbaud or Veracross when needed.
Can you migrate content from our old site?
Yes. We migrate selected pages, prune outdated items, and guide what is automated versus manual, including moves from platforms like Wild Apricot or Edlio.
Accessibility and Performance
Will the site be ADA compliant?
We follow WCAG 2.2 AA best practices and use Equalize Digital Accessibility Checker to scan and fix issues within WordPress. PDFs, videos, and third-party tools may require specialist remediation. We provide an informal report at launch and can recommend partners.
How do you handle performance and SEO?
We optimize with WP Rocket and Cloudflare, perform Lighthouse and GTMetrix testing, map keywords, set meta descriptions, and submit sitemaps to Google Search Console.
Maintenance, Hosting, and Support
Do you offer ongoing maintenance?
Yes. Care plans include backups, updates, security scans, performance optimization, monthly reports, and support time. Premium licenses for Beaver Builder, WP Rocket, and Gravity Forms are included while on a plan.
Do we have to host with you?
No. You own your hosting. We recommend reliable WordPress-specific hosting and help you set it up.
What support is included after launch?
We include a one week warranty window for post-launch fixes. After that you can use ad hoc support or a care plan.
Content and Branding
Do you provide copywriting?
We optimize your content and craft headlines and CTAs. For full copywriting, we can connect you with writers experienced in schools and nonprofits.
How do you handle multiple audiences?
We plan user journeys in the site map and wireframes so parents, students, donors, and community members reach the right content quickly.
Pricing and Payment
How much does a website cost?
Typical projects range from 15,000 to 30,000 based on complexity and content volume. You receive a fixed proposal before we start.
How are payments structured?
50 percent at acceptance, 25 percent when design begins, 25 percent when development begins. Full payment is due prior to launch.
Are there additional costs?
Hosting, domain registration, and any premium plugins if not on our care plan. We outline all costs in the proposal.
Getting Started
What do you need from us to begin?
Access to your current site and Google accounts, logo and brand assets, photos, and a main point of contact for feedback.
How do we start a project?
Book a quick consult to get started. We will review goals, share relevant examples, and send a tailored proposal.