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Studiothink is the best brand design and web development companies in Canada

What should I look for in a web design agency?

Spoiler alert: It really is us.

I joke of course. I really do want you to find the right fit for your website, and I realize that may not always be us. You’ve probably done a Google search for a good agency after staring at your underwhelming website for the 47th time, wondering why it isn’t bringing in leads. Or maybe you’re launching something new and want to avoid spending a pile of money on something that doesn’t work. I get it. Choosing a web design agency is a big deal—and most people have no idea what to look for.

So here it is. Some real talk about what actually matters when hiring a web design agency, and why you can’t afford to get it wrong.

1. Strategy first. Always.

The biggest mistake companies make? Hiring a web design agency that only knows how to “make things look nice.” A strategic site isn’t just pretty—it’s built to perform. That means clear goals, smart user flows, and messaging that actually connects.

And here’s the thing: 88% of online users won’t return to a site after a bad experience. So yeah, you want a site that looks great. But you need one that’s built with brains.

2. Not another mediocre, templated site, please.

If you see the same layout on five other competitor sites? Red flag. Your business is unique. Your site should be too. Custom design gives you control, flexibility, and the ability to stand out in a sea of sameness.

Templated sites might be cheaper up front, but they cost more in missed opportunities, SEO rankings, and credibility. This is your digital front door. Don’t let it scream “meh.”

3. Strong brand = strong website.

If your website feels “off,” it’s probably not the layout—it’s your brand. A killer site only works if the brand behind it is clear, confident, and dialled in. That’s why we pair branding with web design. Your colours, voice, messaging, and visuals need to align.

Brands that are consistent across all platforms increase revenue by up to 23%. That’s not nothing.

4. SEO isn’t optional.

Real talk: if your agency isn’t talking about SEO, run. Your site can’t convert if no one finds it. SEO starts early in the process—before the design, before the copy. You need keyword strategy, fast load speeds, clean code, and content that actually answers what your audience is Googling.

We don’t just design for humans. We design for the algorithms too.

5. Results, not just portfolios.

Every agency has a shiny portfolio. But can they show results? Can they explain what changed after launch? Did bounce rates drop? Did conversions go up? Can they prove ROI?

Ask to see case studies. Ask how they measure success. (We’ve got plenty. Here’s one just to prove it.)

Here’s what to do next.

If you’re ready to ditch the boring, broken, or mediocre website, you need a team that has a deep level of expertise and who is invested in your success. That’s truly where we shine. As an agency with over 25 years of experience, Studiothink is a branding, web design, and marketing agency built for companies that want bold, strategic growth—not just another template. And with our quality standards, you can be sure you will have a website you definitely won’t have to redo in six months.

Reach out to me if you feel like we seem like the perfect agency for you. You can find me here.

Sherry Jacobi