Compare a quote by actual scope: pages and content, media, functions, migration, approvals, acceptance checks, access and support. Clarify exclusions, third-party charges and ownership. Two amounts are comparable only when deliverables and acceptance criteria are comparable too.
Compare an equivalent scope
Specify pages, templates, languages, forms, content migration, integrations and mobile behaviour. Distinguish a design mock-up, an implemented template and a fully populated page. If photographs or copy still need producing, the quote should say who creates and approves them. The website brief guide helps you give each supplier the same starting point.
Identify deliverables that can be checked
Ask what will be supplied at each stage: site map, copy, designs, testing site, redirects, documentation and training. A phrase such as « SEO included » is too broad: which pages, checks and observable deliverables does it cover? A search ranking cannot be guaranteed by one line in a proposal.
Assign responsibilities and rights
Record who provides the domain, hosting, media and third-party services, who holds them and who pays renewals. Clarify rights to use the work and how content will be handed over. Access methods belong in appropriate procedures and should not be copied into a quote comparison worksheet.
Read the cost over time
Separate design and build, subscriptions, licences, maintenance, later changes and possible transaction fees. Something free at launch may create a recurring cost. Compare the number of revision rounds included and how changes requested after approval will be priced.
Plan acceptance and handover
The quote should explain how forms, key pages, mobile use, practical accessibility, images and redirects will be tested. Decide who accepts each stage and what happens when a defect is found. Before signing, write down three pages, two user journeys and one maintenance responsibility that both parties understand in the same way.
Compare two quotes against one list
An association needs an eight-page site in two languages. One quote covers templates but excludes translation and migration; the other includes URL mapping, training and form acceptance. The team marks each requirement included, optional or unclear.
Compare deliverables and responsibilities before totals. Ask for written clarification on unclear lines and check costs after launch.
