Frequently asked questions
Answers to common scope, architecture, ownership, and support questions before we start a project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all websites use the same technology?
No. Different goals require different levels of complexity. We choose technology based on what your site needs to do-not on trends or one-size-fits-all solutions.
Most projects fall into one of four categories: Static Showcase, Static + Edge Services, Content System, or Product/Platform.
What is a "Static Showcase" website?
A fast, secure site focused on clarity, credibility, and contact-ideal for portfolios, studios, and service businesses that want a strong presence without unnecessary complexity.
What does "Static + Edge Services" mean?
A static site with small dynamic features added only where they help-like spam-protected contact forms, scheduling, or portfolio filtering-without a traditional backend server.
When do I need a content system or CMS?
Only when content changes frequently (weekly or more), multiple editors are involved, or drafts/approvals matter. If updates are occasional, we usually avoid a CMS.
What counts as a product or platform?
If users need accounts, logins, payments, dashboards, or stored data, you are building software-not just a website. These projects require different planning, security, and long-term maintenance.
Why don't you just build everything as a platform?
Because unnecessary complexity creates higher costs, more failure points, greater privacy and security risk, and long-term maintenance burden. We prefer systems that are as simple as possible, but no simpler.
What about analytics and tracking?
We build privacy-first by default: no invasive tracking, no unnecessary cookies, and clear consent if marketing analytics are requested. If measurement matters, we start with privacy-friendly options and explain tradeoffs clearly.
Who owns the site and accounts?
You do. We recommend clients own their domain, hosting, and data to avoid lock-in. If you prefer convenience, we can also provide optional hosting and management for a fee.
Can you handle hosting and ongoing management?
Yes-optional. By default, we help you set up accounts you own and control. If you want convenience, we can host and manage the site for a monthly or annual fee. Ownership and access can be transferred to you later.
What's included in hosting & management?
Typical plans may include secure hosting, SSL/DNS support, monitoring, form/email delivery maintenance, platform updates (if applicable), and a defined amount of small updates-scoped clearly in advance.
Do you offer 24/7 support or a formal SLA?
Most small sites do not require a formal SLA. Best-effort support is often sufficient. Formal SLAs or high-availability guarantees are only offered for appropriately scoped projects.
Is hosting required to work with you?
No. Managed hosting is a convenience option, not a requirement.
What if I'm not sure what I need yet?
That's normal. Our intake process is designed to clarify what you actually need before committing to technology that may not serve you long-term.
What We Don't Do
- We don't build bloated systems. No heavy frameworks, dashboards, or databases unless they solve a real problem.
- We don't default to invasive tracking. No surveillance-style analytics, retargeting pixels, or dark patterns.
- We don't lock clients into proprietary platforms. You should own your domain, data, and future options.
- We don't design for attention extraction. No autoplay media, pop-ups, or manipulative UX unless there's a clear, agreed reason.
- We don't chase trends. Longevity matters more than what's fashionable this year.
- We don't force ongoing retainers. Hosting and management are optional-offered for convenience, not as a condition of working together.