What do Developers Charge

I appreciate this is a VERY broad question with VERY
broad answers but I'm hoping some people can provide some
answers in generalities.

What I'm looking for is what do most web developers charge
to develop a web site. Perhaps break it down by categories
such as basic information site with so much per page and/or
in/ex-cluding flash, an/or full eCommerce shopping cart
with product details. What is considered normal and
reasonable ???

Jon

Jon wrote:

 >
 > I appreciate this is a VERY broad question with VERY
 > broad answers but I'm hoping some people can provide some
 > answers in generalities.
 >
 > What I'm looking for is what do most web developers charge
 > to develop a web site. Perhaps break it down by categories
 > such as basic information site with so much per page and/or
 > in/ex-cluding flash, an/or full eCommerce shopping cart
 > with product details. What is considered normal and
 > reasonable ???
 >

Generally speaking, a project's total cost is derived by applying
appropriate hourly rates to the time spent on producing each of its
individual components - and individual hourly rates depend on the skills
and professional standing of the individual employed to perform each task.

Basically you get what you pay for. If you need a quality site and a quick
turnaround time you will need to employ experienced professionals to
produce it for you at a premium hourly rate. On the other hand, if you are
not too concerned with quality or pressed for time, you could employ less
qualified individuals at a reduced rate. But that doesn't necessarily mean
that the final project cost would be any cheaper (or, for that matter, that
the alternative would meet all the client's original expectations).

There are a number of factors you have failed to mention that also have a
direct bearing on total cost. For example: the purpose of the Web site;
target market(s) and time spent in initial consultation with a
knowledgeable or lay client. If a client's aims are allowed to remain
undefined or unfocused it will be impossible to control any project's
costs; so time charged in this area for professional, independent advice is
likely to provide huge cost savings for those with little or no technical
expertise.

As to 'What is considered normal or reasonable' there is no answer, because
every project is unique; but I fear you misunderstand the concept of a
service-based market. The decision to employ an independent professional is
rarely based upon cost; it is virtually always based upon confidence;
quality; convenience and savings (where 'convenience' has a direct
relationship with time).

You only have to examine the reasons why people jump in a licensed taxi; use
public transport or hire a car rather than use the family saloon. Because
it's convenient and they trust the driver; because it's cheaper than using
their own car (or they can't drive) and because they wouldn't be seen dead
arriving at that important business meeting in their own jalopy...

Best wishes,


Ted<!-- ~MESSAGE_AFTER~ -->