FAQ

Common questions

Process, pricing, hosting, and how we work together. Straight answers before you book.

Getting started

How long does a typical project take?: A focused marketing site often lands in 3 to 6 weeks, depending on how ready your content is. Forge tools, Pocket apps, and bigger automations get a written timeline after we talk through scope. Small one-time jobs and audits move faster.
Do you work with clients outside Wisconsin?: Yes. Most of our work is remote. We are based in Wisconsin (Central Time) and work with clients nationwide.
What do you need from me to start?: A rough description of the problem, any existing links or materials, whether you already own a domain, and time for a short call. Messy notes are fine.
How do I book a call or figure out where to start?: Book a free Discovery Call when you want to talk through scope. Not sure what you need yet? Try the free Project Vibe Check: a few short questions, then an honest next step.

How much does a project cost?: It depends on scope: website, software, mobile, or automations. Starting points are on our Pricing page. We will not invent a fixed quote in chat. A short Discovery Call or written scope locks the number.
What is the payment structure?: Most builds are 25% deposit before work begins and 75% when you approve the deliverable (before we launch). Small one-time jobs may take 50% up front because they move quickly. Hosting and Compass subscriptions bill monthly or yearly with no deposit.
What does the deposit cover?: Your Discovery Call, a planning document, the questionnaire, and a sketch-up or mockup review, so you see the plan before the heavy build.
Can I get the deposit back?: Deposits are refundable within 48 hours of payment. Work typically begins within 24 hours of the deposit clearing.

Why do I pay monthly for hosting?: Monthly upkeep covers the server, SSL, backups, tier features, and support tickets. It is not a tip jar. It keeps the site live and cared for. Compare tiers on Pricing.
What is the difference between Upkeep and Compass?: Upkeep is website hosting: SSL, backups, and tickets tied to your hosting tier. Compass is a separate engineering retainer for ongoing bug fixes, tweaks, and feature work. They are never the same product.
Do I own the code?: Yes. Custom builds include source handoff. Licensing for any third-party assets is documented when we deliver.
What about my domain and DNS?: Before any deposit, we decide whether you keep your domain, transfer it, or buy a new one. You own the domain. If we host, we help point DNS. Lock those details in when you scope a project.

Who is on the team?: You get a direct line to Ryan. Bigger jobs can pull in helpers for craft depth. Ownership of the build and hosting stays with the same shop. Meet everyone on the Team page.
Do you offer audits or one-time SEO work?: Yes. See Audits & add-ons if you already have a site and want a clear punch list before a rebuild or fix.
What is the Early Bird offer?: For the first five website clients: 50% off the build fee, plus three months free when you pay yearly for hosting. Details and current availability are on the Early Bird page. It does not apply to Forge, Pocket, or Automations.
What happens after I say yes?: Quote, then deposit, then kickoff questionnaires, then build with checkpoints, then your approval, then launch. You always know the next step. Walk through it on How it works, or scope a project when you are ready.