DLC&A Internet Marketing: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: What makes DLC&A Internet Marketing different from many of its competitors?
Answer: Our clients comment that they appreciate the fact that we approach the Internet from a business owner's perspective. Our associates are business people and have had profit and loss (P&L) responsibility in the past. We value measurements and employ web analytics to provide data that enables us to make fact-based business decisions.
Return on investment is very important and we develop Internet marketing strategies that are geared to deliver the stated business objective. For many service businesses, the goal is to deliver qualified leads that convert to sales. For many product-related businesses, the focus is to sell products more effectively online.
Question: How would you describe a typical client engagement?
Answer: Every project is different, but each project begins with an assessment of the existing web strategy and the strategies being utilized by key competitors. This web site assessment provides valuable information that enables us to determine if we can add value or if another organization might be a better fit.
If there is a fit, we begin the discovery and planning phase of the project. This is characterized by in-depth fact-finding that we use to develop or translate the unique value proposition (UVP) along with key messages and tactics. The deliverable is a written Internet marketing strategy/plan that is agreed upon by all parties.
We then begin the implementation phase of the project in which we implement all strategies and development work included in the Internet marketing plan. This is followed by the launch and monitoring of the plan as it relates to the agreed upon measurements. We then make adjustments accordingly to achieve the stated goals, while ensuring customer satisfaction.
Question: Can I build a web site first and then have it optimized it for the search engines?
Answer: DLC&A prefers to work with a developer and/or web designer before the site is redesigned or built in order to deliver optimal results and reduce rework. Rework increases costs and we are interested in keeping client costs to a minimum.
We work with clients as they desire, but it's more cost effective and efficient to optimize a web site while it is being redesigned.
Question: Can you guarantee that you will increase my rankings with the search engines?
Answer: No reputable Internet marketing firm can guarantee search engine rankings, but an assessment can determine the likelihood of success. We view this phase of a potential project as vital and will not accept a project unless we feel confident that we can deliver measurable results as they relate to achieving the stated business goals. We understand the search engines and leverage them on behalf of our clients.
Question: How quickly can you generate results?
Answer: It all depends upon the business objective, level of competition and the strategies that we employ to meet our client goals. If we pursue paid search as one of the tactics included in the Internet marketing strategy, we can generate results in a relatively short timeframe. If the sole focus is to impact organic search engine rankings, more time is required.
Question: How does your firm charge for its work?
Answer: We typically bill by phase if the project has a definite start and completion. If the project is ongoing, we tend to bill on a monthly basis. We prefer not to bill on an hourly basis, but will consider this sort of request if the client prefers this type of arrangement. We offer various packages as well.
Question: If an organization does not have experienced Internet resources in house, will you consider an outsource arrangement?
Answer: Absolutely. We refer to this as a virtual Internet marketing department arrangement. We welcome these opportunities as they tend to be very cost effective for the client and we can leverage our expertise in a number of areas on a client's behalf. We often find additional revenue generation and lead generation opportunities as a result of this type of arrangement.