You know, it seems like every time I submit a proposal for web development to a prospect, I feel like I have to apologize for the estimate. I know it is higher than they expect. I have been told that, repeatedly. Part of it is because I generally work with smaller companies and non-profit organizations, and part of it is because every one seems to be feeling the pinch of budget cuts and the economy.

But, the fact is, building a really effective web site isn’t cheap. It takes time, expertise, focus, and funds. Frequently, even relatively small web sites run into five figures.

Anyone can build a web site that sucks. You pay for what you get, I suppose. You want a $1,000 web site? Go somewhere else. I’m through compromising quality. If a prospect can’t afford a web site that accomplishes what they need it to, then they don’t need it bad enough.

For some insight on national trends in cost of web development, see BtoB Online’s Web Price Index. Also look at the chart on trends from last year’s index.

Alright, I’ll stop whining.