Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about Velosites website builder services, pricing, technology, and more. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us anytime.

20general Questions

What is Velosites?

Velosites is a professional website development service that builds custom websites for small businesses. Unlike DIY builders, we handle everything - design, development, hosting, and support. You get a human-crafted website built by real experts, not AI templates.

How does Velosites work?

Simple: 1) You sign up and tell us about your business, 2) Our team of designers and developers builds your website, 3) You review and request unlimited changes, 4) Your website goes live. The entire process typically takes 48 hours from start to finish.

How long does it take to build a website?

Most websites are completed and live within 48 hours. More complex projects (e-commerce with 100+ products, custom web applications) may take 1-2 weeks. We provide realistic timelines upfront based on your specific needs.

What do I need to get started?

Just information about your business! Tell us your business name, services, target audience, and any design preferences. We handle everything else including content writing, images, logo design, domain setup, and hosting.

Can I update my website myself?

Yes! We can provide you with simple tools to update content yourself. However, most clients prefer to email us changes (included in your plan) because it's easier than learning a CMS. Either option works.

Do you provide hosting?

Yes! All plans include fast, secure hosting with global CDN, SSL certificate, daily backups, and 99.9% uptime guarantee. You don't need to purchase hosting separately or manage servers.

What happens if I cancel?

You can cancel anytime with no penalties or fees. Your website will remain live for 30 days to give you time to migrate elsewhere if needed. We can even help you export your content and provide migration assistance.

Do you offer refunds?

If you're unhappy within the first 30 days, we offer a full refund - no questions asked. After 30 days, you can cancel anytime (see cancellation policy). We're confident you'll love our service.

Can I use my own domain?

Absolutely! If you already have a domain, we'll help you connect it to your new website. We handle all the technical DNS setup. If you need a new domain, we can register one for you.

Do you provide email addresses?

Yes! All plans include professional email addresses using your domain (e.g., you@yourbusiness.com). You can create as many email addresses as you need for your team.

What is included in website maintenance?

All plans include: security updates, daily backups, uptime monitoring, performance optimization, 2 content updates per month, and technical support. You never worry about keeping your website running.

How do I contact support?

You have direct access to your dedicated team via email, phone, or video call. No ticketing systems or chatbots. Most responses come within a few hours during business hours.

Do you offer rush services?

Our standard 48-hour delivery is already quite fast! For urgent needs (website live in 24 hours), contact us directly. Rush service may be available depending on team capacity.

Can you redesign my existing website?

Yes! We can completely redesign your current website or migrate it to our platform. Many clients come to us to escape slow WordPress sites or outdated designs.

Do you work with WordPress?

We don't build WordPress sites. We use modern technology (Next.js) that's faster, more secure, and requires zero maintenance. However, we can migrate your WordPress content to our platform.

Can you build an e-commerce store?

Yes! We build full e-commerce websites with product management, secure payment processing (Stripe/Square), inventory tracking, and order management. Perfect for small to medium online stores.

Do you offer payment plans?

All our services are month-to-month subscriptions. No large upfront payments needed. For custom development projects, we can discuss milestone-based payment schedules.

What industries do you work with?

We work with all industries! Common clients include tradies, restaurants, real estate, professional services, retailers, healthcare, fitness, beauty, and more. Every business needs a website.

Do you work with businesses outside Australia?

Primarily we serve Australian and New Zealand businesses. However, we can work with international clients. Note that support is during AEST business hours.

What makes Velosites different?

Human-crafted websites (no AI), no lock-in contracts, pay when happy, direct expert support, 48-hour delivery, and 90+ PageSpeed scores. We combine the best of agencies (quality) and DIY builders (price) without the downsides of either.

48pricing Questions

How much does a website cost?

Websites start at $19/month for a professional business website. E-commerce sites start at $49/month. Custom web applications start at $199/month. All prices include hosting, SSL, support, and maintenance.

What is included in the pricing?

All plans include: custom website design, unlimited revisions, free logo, hosting & SSL, professional email, SEO optimization, mobile optimization, ongoing support, maintenance & updates, and no lock-in contracts.

Are there any hidden fees?

No hidden fees. The monthly price you see is what you pay. No setup fees, no domain fees (first year), no SSL fees, no surprise charges. Completely transparent pricing.

Do you charge for revisions?

No! Unlimited revisions are included in all plans. Request as many changes as you need until the website is perfect. No per-change fees.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex), debit cards, and direct debit. All payments are processed securely through Stripe.

Is there a setup fee?

No setup fees! You only pay the monthly subscription. We include all setup work (design, development, domain connection) at no extra charge.

What are the ongoing monthly costs?

Just the plan subscription ($19, $49, or $199/month depending on website type). This includes hosting, support, maintenance, and updates. No additional monthly costs.

Do I own my website?

Yes! You own all your content, images, and data. If you cancel, we'll help you export everything. The design and code remain our intellectual property, but you can take your content anywhere.

What happens after 12 months?

Nothing changes! Your plan continues month-to-month at the same price. No price increases, no long-term contracts. Cancel anytime if needed.

Can I pay annually?

Yes! Annual payment is available and includes a discount (typically 2 months free). Contact us to set up annual billing.

Do you offer discounts?

We offer discounts for: annual payment (2 months free), non-profits, multiple websites, and referrals. Contact us to discuss your situation.

Is hosting included in the price?

Yes! Fast, secure hosting with global CDN, SSL certificate, and daily backups are all included. No separate hosting fees.

Is the domain included in the price?

First year domain registration is included free. After that, domain renewal is $20/year for .com.au or .com domains.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancel anytime, no penalties, no fees. Your website stays live for 30 days after cancellation. We'll even help you migrate elsewhere if needed.

Do you offer enterprise pricing?

Yes! For businesses needing multiple websites, custom features, or dedicated support, we offer custom enterprise plans. Contact our sales team for a quote.

Are there any hidden costs I should know about?

No hidden costs with Velosites. Your monthly plan includes everything - hosting, SSL, maintenance, support, backups, and updates. The only additional costs are optional add-ons like premium apps, custom features, or advanced SEO services. We're completely transparent about pricing.

Can I really cancel anytime without penalties?

Yes, absolutely. Cancel anytime with zero penalties, fees, or cancellation charges. Your website stays live for 30 days after cancellation, giving you time to migrate elsewhere if needed. We even help with content export. No lock-in contracts, ever.

Should I pay monthly or upfront?

That depends on your cash flow and commitment level. Monthly plans offer flexibility with no upfront investment. Annual plans typically save 10-15% and show search engines you're committed long-term. Most small businesses start monthly and switch to annual once they see results.

What flexible payment options do you offer for websites?

We offer highly flexible payment options designed for Australian small businesses. Choose from monthly subscriptions with no lock-in contracts, annual payment with discount (save 2 months), quarterly payments, or custom payment schedules for larger projects. All major credit and debit cards are accepted through our secure Stripe payment system. We also offer direct debit for recurring payments. For businesses with cash flow constraints, we can discuss milestone-based payments for custom development projects. No large upfront fees required - our subscription model means you start with just the first month's payment. Pause or cancel anytime without penalties. We understand small business finances and work to make professional websites accessible regardless of budget.

Do you offer a price guarantee or will rates increase?

We offer a price lock guarantee - your monthly rate stays the same for as long as you remain a customer. No surprise price increases, no renewal rate hikes. When you sign up at $19, $49, or $199/month, that's your rate indefinitely. We may introduce new plans or features at different price points, but existing customers are grandfathered at their original rate. This is unusual in the subscription industry where companies often raise prices after the first year. We believe in transparent, fair pricing. Your budget stays predictable. The only price changes might occur if you upgrade to a higher plan by choice, or if you add optional premium features. Otherwise, your rate is locked.

What is your refund policy and how does it work?

Our refund policy is simple and customer-friendly: 30-day money-back guarantee on all new websites, no questions asked. If you're unsatisfied for any reason within the first 30 days, request a full refund and we'll process it immediately. This applies to setup fees (if any) and first month's subscription. After 30 days, you can cancel anytime - your website remains live for 30 days giving you time to migrate. We don't prorate mid-month cancellations, but provide the full month you've paid for. For custom development projects, refund terms depend on milestones completed. We document everything in writing before starting. Our refund process typically takes 5-7 business days to appear in your account. We stand behind our service quality and want every customer completely satisfied.

What custom pricing options exist for enterprises and agencies?

We offer custom enterprise pricing for organisations needing multiple websites, advanced features, or dedicated support. Enterprise packages include: unlimited websites at volume discounts, white-label solutions for agencies reselling to clients, dedicated account manager, priority development queue, custom feature development, SLA agreements with guaranteed response times, advanced analytics and reporting, multi-user team access, and optional on-premises hosting. Pricing varies based on specific requirements but typically starts at $999/month for 5+ websites. Agencies can partner with us to offer Velosites services under their brand while we handle delivery. Volume discounts increase with more websites. Contact our enterprise team for custom proposals tailored to your organisation. We work with agencies, franchise groups, and companies managing multiple brand websites.

Do you offer discounts for non-profit organisations and charities?

Yes! Australian registered non-profits and charities receive 50% discount on all plans. A professional $19/month website becomes just $9.50/month. This discount applies to all services including e-commerce, custom features, and ongoing support. We believe non-profits deserve the same quality web presence as businesses but often lack budget. To qualify, provide your ABN and evidence of non-profit status (ACNC registration, DGR status, or charity license). The discount continues indefinitely as long as you remain a customer. We also offer pro-bono websites for exceptional causes - apply through our community program. Many non-profits using our service successfully fundraise, recruit volunteers, and communicate their mission online. Modern websites help charities compete for attention and donations in the digital space.

Are there special rates for startups and early-stage businesses?

Absolutely! We support Australian startups through our Startup Program offering 30% discount for first 12 months. Startups (businesses under 2 years old with under $250K revenue) qualify for special rates: $13.30/month for business websites, $34.30/month for e-commerce, $139.30/month for web applications. After 12 months, standard pricing applies but you can cancel anytime. We know startups operate on tight budgets while needing professional presence. Many successful Australian startups began as Velosites customers. The program includes startup-focused features like investor pitch page templates, beta signup forms, and product launch pages. We also partner with startup accelerators and incubators. Apply with proof of business age and revenue. Building your MVP? Talk to us about custom web application development for startups.

Are there transaction fees on e-commerce sales?

No! Velosites charges zero transaction fees on your e-commerce sales. You keep 100% of your revenue. The only fees are standard payment processor fees (Stripe/Square) around 1.75% + 30¢ per transaction - identical to what you'd pay using them directly. Many website builders charge additional 2-3% transaction fees on top of payment processor fees, reducing your profit. We don't. Our e-commerce pricing is straightforward: $49/month for unlimited products and sales. Whether you sell $1,000 or $100,000 monthly, the price stays $49/month. This transparent pricing helps you accurately forecast costs. Payment processor fees are unavoidable (even physical card terminals have them), but we add zero extra fees. Your money is yours. This approach makes Velosites particularly attractive for high-volume online stores.

Why subscription pricing instead of hourly development rates?

Subscription pricing benefits you significantly compared to hourly development. Traditional web developers charge $50-150/hour, making simple websites $3,000-8,000 upfront plus hosting. Our subscription model costs $19-199/month - you'd pay traditional rates in under 3 months then still need hosting and maintenance. Subscriptions include everything: design, development, hosting, SSL, support, updates, and maintenance. You avoid large upfront investment, spread costs over time, get ongoing support included, and cancel anytime if needs change. Traditional development leaves you with aging code requiring expensive updates. Our model keeps your website modern continuously. For businesses, $19/month is easier to budget than $5,000 upfront. You also avoid the risk of paying thousands for poorly built websites. Our subscription model aligns our success with yours - we stay motivated to keep your website performing well.

Do I own my website if I'm paying monthly?

Yes and no - it's important to understand what you own. You own all your content, images, text, logo, and business data completely. If you cancel, we provide all your content to take elsewhere. However, the website code, design, and platform remain our intellectual property - similar to how you don't own Word even though you own your documents. This is standard in subscription models. The benefit: we maintain and update the code, ensuring security and modern features. If you cancel, you take your content and can rebuild elsewhere. For businesses wanting full code ownership, we offer one-time purchase options starting at $5,000 plus hosting fees. Most clients prefer the subscription model for ongoing support and updates. You're not locked in - cancel anytime and migrate your content elsewhere. Your business identity and content are always yours.

How does Velosites pricing compare to competitors?

Velosites offers exceptional value compared to alternatives. DIY builders (Wix, Squarespace) cost $20-40/month but require hours learning, producing mediocre results. Freelancers charge $2,000-10,000 upfront plus maintenance fees. Agencies charge $5,000-50,000 with 6-month timelines. Velosites delivers agency-quality websites at DIY builder prices with 48-hour delivery. Our $19/month includes everything - no upsells for SSL, forms, or storage like competitors. For e-commerce, Shopify costs $39-399/month plus apps and themes ($50-200). Our $49/month includes everything with zero transaction fees (Shopify charges 2%). Web applications would cost $20,000+ with developers - we offer $199/month subscriptions. We combine professional quality, fair pricing, no lock-ins, and actual human support. The value proposition is unmatched in the Australian market.

Do you offer discounts for multiple websites?

Yes! Organisations managing multiple websites receive volume discounts: 2-4 websites: 10% discount, 5-9 websites: 20% discount, 10+ websites: 30% discount plus dedicated support. This applies to businesses with multiple locations, agencies managing client sites, franchise groups, or holding companies with various brands. Each website maintains full features and support. Volume discounts make professional websites affordable for franchise networks or multi-location businesses. We also offer unified billing and management dashboards for multiple sites. Perfect for real estate agencies (agent microsites), restaurant groups (location sites), or retail chains (store websites). Contact us for custom enterprise quotes if managing 20+ websites. Volume pricing makes it cost-effective to give each location or franchise its own professional presence.

What pricing options exist for schools and educational institutions?

Australian schools, universities, and educational institutions receive 40% discount on all plans. A professional website becomes $11.40/month instead of $19. We support education by making professional web presence accessible for schools with limited budgets. Features particularly useful for education include: event calendars, enrolment forms, staff directories, photo galleries, newsletter signups, and parent portals. Schools can easily showcase achievements, communicate policies, and engage communities. Pricing includes unlimited pages for faculties, departments, sports teams, and extracurricular activities. We understand schools need security and privacy - all sites include HTTPS and comply with privacy requirements. The discount applies to primary schools, secondary schools, universities, TAFEs, and registered training organisations. Provide evidence of educational institution status to qualify.

Do you run seasonal promotions or special offers?

We occasionally offer limited-time promotions during key periods like End of Financial Year (EOFY), Black Friday, or new year. Promotions might include: first 3 months half-price, free logo design upgrade, waived setup fees, or bonus features. However, our everyday pricing is already highly competitive - we don't inflate prices to run fake discounts. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notification of promotions. Most promotions apply to new customers only but we occasionally offer existing customer loyalty bonuses. We focus on fair pricing year-round rather than relying on promotional tactics. If considering Velosites, waiting for promotions isn't necessary - our standard pricing delivers exceptional value. Referral program rewards also available year-round: refer businesses and receive account credits or gift cards.

Do you have a referral program with rewards?

Yes! Our referral program rewards customers for spreading the word. Refer a business that becomes a paying customer and receive: $100 account credit (equivalent to 5+ months free at $19/month), or $100 gift card if you prefer cash equivalent, plus the referred business receives $50 discount on first payment. Unlimited referrals - refer 10 businesses and receive $1,000 in credits. Credits apply to subscription fees or can be used toward upgrades. Referrals must remain customers for 60 days before reward is issued. Share your unique referral link (provided in customer dashboard) via email, social media, or word-of-mouth. Many customers fully cover their website costs through referrals. It's our way of saying thank you for helping grow the Velosites community. Refer consultants, colleagues, or industry peers - everyone needs websites.

Can I earn income by becoming a Velosites affiliate partner?

Absolutely! Our affiliate program suits web consultants, agencies, marketers, and business coaches wanting recurring income. Affiliates earn 20% recurring commission on all referred customers for 12 months. Refer a $49/month e-commerce customer and earn $9.80/month ($117.60 annual) for 12 months. Refer 10 customers averaging $50/month and earn $1,200 annually passive income. Benefits include: generous recurring commissions (not one-time), dedicated affiliate dashboard tracking referrals and earnings, marketing materials and email templates, cookie tracking (60-day attribution window), and monthly payouts via bank transfer. Perfect for agencies offering complementary services (SEO, marketing) to add website services without delivery. Or business coaches helping clients get online. Join free, get affiliate link, promote to your network. Commissions scale - top affiliates earn $2,000+ monthly.

Can I bundle website with other services for savings?

Yes! We offer package bundles combining multiple services at discounted rates. Popular bundles include: Website + Logo Package ($29/month instead of $38), Website + SEO Package ($79/month instead of $118), Complete Online Presence ($149/month for website, logo, SEO, and social media setup), and E-commerce Plus ($99/month including website, logo, email marketing, and inventory management). Bundling saves 20-30% compared to purchasing services separately. Perfect for businesses starting from scratch needing complete online presence. Bundle pricing locks in savings long-term. You can also customise bundles - tell us what services you need and we'll create package pricing. Most businesses benefit from website + SEO bundles since SEO drives website traffic. Bundles provide integrated solutions with single point of contact rather than juggling multiple providers.

What are the benefits of prepaying annually versus monthly?

Annual prepayment offers several benefits beyond cost savings: 10-15% discount (equivalent to 1-2 months free), no monthly payment admin, budget certainty for the full year, priority support queue, first access to new features, and demonstrates business stability (good for credit applications). Monthly $49 plan costs $588 annually but prepaying costs $499 - saving $89. However, monthly payments offer flexibility - cancel anytime if business changes. Consider prepaying if: certain you'll need the website for 12+ months, have available cash flow, want maximum savings, or prefer annual budgeting. Monthly works better if: testing the service, uncertain about long-term needs, or prefer cash flow preservation. Most established businesses choose annual billing; startups choose monthly. You can always upgrade from monthly to annual later to lock in savings.

What happens if my payment fails or card expires?

We understand payment issues happen and handle them gracefully. When payment fails: you receive immediate email notification with update link, 7-day grace period to update payment details without service interruption, reminder emails at days 3, 5, and 7, and after 7 days, website enters "suspended" mode showing maintenance page to visitors but preserving your data. We don't immediately delete websites or hold data hostage. Even if suspended, your website and data remain safe for 30 days. Update payment anytime to instantly restore service. No reactivation fees. We help resolve payment issues - sometimes it's just expired cards or changed billing addresses. Most payment failures resolve within 48 hours. We're partners in your business success, not looking for excuses to cut service. Contact support if experiencing financial hardship - we may offer extended grace periods case-by-case.

Can I upgrade or downgrade my plan anytime?

Absolutely! Upgrade or downgrade anytime with immediate effect. Upgrading is instant - pay the difference prorated for remaining month, immediately access new features. Example: upgrade from $19 to $49 plan mid-month, pay ~$15 (half month difference), instantly use e-commerce features. Downgrading takes effect next billing cycle - continue enjoying current plan features until end of paid period, then automatically downgrade. No penalties, no hassle. Common upgrade path: start with Basic Website ($19), add e-commerce later ($49), scale to Web Application ($199) as business grows. Also upgrade for temporary needs - boost to higher plan for busy season, downgrade after. We make flexibility easy because business needs change. Manage upgrades/downgrades yourself in customer dashboard or contact support for assistance. Pricing flexibility ensures you're never paying for more than you need.

Do you work with government procurement and tenders?

Yes! Velosites is registered for Australian government procurement and regularly responds to tenders. We work with local councils, state government departments, and federal agencies. Government agencies receive standard pricing with volume discounts for multiple sites. We comply with government requirements including: detailed quoting and invoicing, payment terms (typically 30 days), security clearances where required, accessibility compliance (WCAG 2.1 AA), Australian data hosting, and proper contracting. We've delivered websites for councils, health services, and government programs. Government projects often require formal tender responses - we handle the paperwork. Our subscription model suits government budgeting with predictable annual costs. Contact our government services team for: tender assistance, compliance documentation, volume quotes for department-wide rollouts, or custom SLA agreements. We understand government procurement processes and requirements.

Are website costs tax deductible for businesses?

Yes! Website costs are generally tax deductible as business expenses in Australia. Monthly subscription fees ($19-199/month) are fully deductible operating expenses claimed in the year paid. For larger one-time payments (custom development), taxation treatment depends on the amount and ATO guidelines - generally amounts under $1,000 are immediately deductible while larger amounts may need to be depreciated over the asset's useful life (typically 2.5-5 years). We provide detailed tax invoices including ABN and GST breakdown for your accountant. Website costs fall under "advertising and marketing" or "technology expenses" depending on your business structure. Consult your accountant for specific advice. Our subscription model simplifies tax treatment - clear monthly expenses claimed on business activity statements. Domain registration, hosting, SEO services, and maintenance are all deductible business expenses. Keep all our invoices for tax records.

Are you GST registered and do you provide tax invoices?

Yes, Velosites is fully GST registered in Australia (ABN and GST provided on all invoices). All prices shown include GST where applicable. We issue compliant tax invoices automatically for every payment including: our business name and ABN, your business name and ABN (if provided), invoice date and number, detailed description of services, amount excluding GST, GST amount, and total including GST. Invoices are emailed immediately after payment and accessible anytime in your customer dashboard. GST-registered businesses can claim the GST component as input tax credit. For GST-free organisations (some charities, educational institutions), let us know and we can structure invoicing appropriately. We maintain all records for audit requirements. If you need invoice corrections or additional details for your accounting system, contact support. Our invoicing complies with Australian tax law requirements.

Are there late payment fees or penalties?

No! We don't charge late payment fees or penalties. If your payment fails (expired card, insufficient funds), we send friendly reminders and provide a grace period to update payment details. No $25 late fees or interest charges like credit cards. After 7 days without payment update, your website enters suspended mode but your data remains safe. We understand businesses face cash flow challenges occasionally. If experiencing financial difficulty, contact us - we can arrange short payment extensions or downgrade to a lower plan temporarily. We're not in the business of profiting from late fees. Our goal is maintaining positive customer relationships, not punishing payment hiccups. This customer-friendly approach is unusual in subscription services. Update payment anytime to instantly restore full service. We only cancel accounts after 30+ days of non-payment with no customer response.

Do you offer lifetime deals or one-time payments?

We don't offer traditional "lifetime deals" because they're unsustainable - companies offering them often disappear or reduce service quality. However, we do offer one-time purchase options for businesses preferring to buy outright: Basic Website: $3,999 one-time (includes 12 months hosting then $199/year), E-commerce Website: $7,999 one-time (includes 12 months hosting then $399/year), Custom Application: $19,999+ one-time (includes 12 months hosting then custom annual fee). One-time purchases include source code transfer and full ownership but you're responsible for future updates, security, and maintenance. Most businesses find subscriptions more economical long-term - $19/month ($228/year) vs $3,999 upfront. Subscriptions include ongoing updates, security, support, and maintenance. The right choice depends on your business philosophy, cash position, and internal technical capabilities. For most Australian small businesses, subscriptions offer better value.

Can I pause my subscription and receive account credits?

Yes! You can pause your subscription for up to 3 months at 50% cost - pay just $9.50/month instead of $19 to keep your website in "paused" mode. During pause, your website shows a "temporarily unavailable" message to visitors but all data and design remain intact. Useful for seasonal businesses, businesses pivoting, or during extended closures. After pause period, reactive at full price or cancel completely. We don't offer account credits for unused time since our costs continue (hosting, storage, support availability). However, referral rewards, affiliate earnings, and prepayment discounts all result in account credits applicable to future billing. Some customers pause during slow seasons and reactivate for busy periods. The pause feature provides flexibility without losing your website entirely. Alternative: downgrade to lowest plan ($19) to maintain basic presence at minimal cost during quiet periods.

Do you offer price matching against competitors?

We don't offer formal price matching because our pricing is already highly competitive and includes more than competitors at similar price points. However, we'll always listen if you've received a significantly better offer elsewhere. Our value proposition isn't just price - it's quality, speed, support, and Australian ownership. DIY builders might cost similar but require your time and produce amateur results. Freelancers might quote lower but lack the support infrastructure and often disappear mid-project. Agencies charging more provide similar quality but with longer timelines and complexity. We firmly believe our pricing offers exceptional value for the quality delivered. That said, if you're genuinely torn between Velosites and a competitor due to price difference, contact us. We may not match prices but can potentially structure payments, add bonus features, or find other ways to deliver value. We compete on overall value, not just lowest price.

Can I change my billing date or invoicing schedule?

Absolutely! We offer flexible billing arrangements to suit your business needs. By default, billing occurs on the same date you signed up (15th of month if you joined on the 15th). However, you can request billing date changes - common reasons include: aligning with business cash flow cycles, matching other subscription billing dates, coordinating with payroll schedules, or aligning with fiscal year. Contact support to change billing dates - we'll prorate the current month and restart on your preferred date. We can also provide invoicing on different schedules than payment - some businesses need invoices 30 days before payment for approval processes. For agencies billing clients, we can coordinate invoicing with your client billing schedule. Enterprise customers can request quarterly or semi-annual invoicing. Our accounting system is flexible - just tell us what billing arrangement suits your business.

Can I pay in currencies other than Australian dollars?

Primarily we bill in Australian dollars (AUD) since we're an Australian company. However, international customers can pay in USD, GBP, EUR, or NZD - our payment processor (Stripe) handles currency conversion automatically using current exchange rates (they add a small 1-2% foreign exchange fee). Prices are equivalent to AUD rates converted at current exchange - $19 AUD becomes approximately $12 USD, £10 GBP, or $20 NZD. Exchange rates fluctuate so amounts may vary slightly monthly. Your credit card will show the charge in your home currency. For Australian businesses trading in AUD, all transactions stay in AUD with no foreign exchange fees. Larger international contracts can be negotiated in preferred currency with fixed rates. Contact us to discuss currency preferences if regularly dealing in non-AUD currencies. We serve international clients but pricing is primarily structured for the Australian market.

What happens if my business faces financial hardship?

We understand businesses face challenges and work with customers experiencing genuine hardship. If you're struggling financially, contact us immediately - don't just stop paying and disappear. Options we can explore include: temporary payment plan (split monthly fee into smaller weekly payments), downgrade to lower plan temporarily, 50% discount for 1-3 months while you recover, pause subscription at reduced cost, or extended grace period. We've helped dozens of customers through COVID lockdowns, natural disasters, and personal hardships. Our goal is keeping your website online because it's essential for business recovery. Businesses without websites struggle even more during tough times. We're Australian-owned and understand small business challenges. Every hardship situation is different - we handle case-by-case with compassion. Some customers who we helped during tough times are now our biggest advocates. Contact us before crisis point to explore options.

Why is your pricing so much cheaper than traditional agencies?

Our pricing is affordable because of systematic efficiency, not cutting corners. Traditional agencies charge $5,000-50,000 because they have: high overhead (expensive offices, account managers, project managers), inefficient processes (meetings, proposals, revisions), custom coding every project from scratch, and slower timelines (weeks or months). We've industrialized quality web development through: modern technology that's faster to develop (Next.js, React), refined processes from building 500+ websites, reusable components and frameworks (not templates - custom-assembled), efficient design systems, remote-first operation (lower overhead), and subscription model spreading costs over time. We focus on small businesses requiring excellent websites, not large enterprises needing extreme customisation. By specialising, we deliver agency quality at a fraction of the cost. Our approach combines the best of DIY builders (price, speed) with agencies (quality, customisation). It's about smart business model, not cheap quality.

19technical Questions

What technology do you use to build websites?

We use modern technologies: Next.js (React framework), TypeScript, Tailwind CSS, and cloud infrastructure. This delivers faster, more secure websites than traditional platforms like WordPress.

Will my website be mobile-friendly?

Yes! Every website is fully responsive and optimized for mobile, tablet, and desktop. Mobile-first design ensures perfect experience on all devices.

Will my website be fast?

Yes! We guarantee 90+ Google PageSpeed scores. Fast loading improves SEO rankings, user experience, and conversions. Most sites load in under 2 seconds.

Is my website secure?

Yes! All websites include SSL encryption (HTTPS), automatic security updates, DDoS protection, and daily backups. Enterprise-grade security included.

Do you provide SSL certificate?

Yes! Free SSL certificate is included with automatic renewal. Your website will always have the secure HTTPS padlock in browsers.

How do website backups work?

Automated daily backups are stored securely for 30 days. If anything goes wrong, we can restore your website to any point in the last month within minutes.

Can I have multiple pages on my website?

Yes! Most websites include 5-10 pages (Home, About, Services, Contact, etc.). Need more pages? No problem - we can add as many as you need.

Can I add a blog to my website?

Yes! We can include a blog with your website. You can post articles yourself or have us post them for you (content updates included in maintenance).

Can I add online booking/appointments?

Yes! We can integrate booking systems for appointments, reservations, classes, or services. Popular for salons, gyms, restaurants, and service businesses.

Can I accept payments online?

Yes! We integrate Stripe or Square for secure online payments. Accept credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more. Perfect for e-commerce or services.

Can I integrate with other tools?

Yes! We can integrate with most business tools: CRM systems, email marketing, accounting software, booking systems, payment processors, etc.

Do you support Google Analytics?

Yes! Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager are set up on all websites. Track visitors, conversions, and performance from day one.

Can I use a custom domain name?

Yes! Use your own domain (yourbusiness.com.au) or we'll help you register a new one. All technical DNS setup is handled for you.

What is your uptime guarantee?

99.9% uptime guarantee with 24/7 monitoring. If your website goes down, we're alerted immediately and fix it fast. Most sites have 99.99% actual uptime.

Can you migrate my existing website?

Yes! We can migrate from WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, Shopify, or any platform. We handle content migration, redirect setup, and ensure zero downtime.

Why is page speed important and how fast should my site be?

Page speed affects both SEO rankings and user experience. Google prioritizes fast sites, and 53% of mobile visitors leave if a page takes over 3 seconds to load. Your site should load in under 3 seconds, ideally under 2. We optimize all websites for speed using modern techniques, CDN, and image optimization.

What is SSL/HTTPS and do I need it?

SSL encrypts data between your website and visitors, shown by "https://" and a padlock icon. It's essential for security, trust, and SEO - Google penalizes sites without SSL. All our websites include free SSL certificates automatically. Never launch a website without SSL in 2025.

What is responsive design and why does it matter?

Responsive design means your website automatically adapts to any screen size - desktop, tablet, or mobile. Over 60% of website traffic is mobile, so if your site doesn't work on phones, you're losing most potential customers. All our websites are fully responsive by default.

What is a CMS and do I need one?

A CMS (Content Management System) lets you edit website content without coding. Popular examples are WordPress, Wix, and Shopify. Whether you need one depends on how often you'll update content. Many of our clients prefer emailing us changes (included in plans) over learning a CMS. We can provide either option.

19seo Questions

Will my website rank on Google?

We build every website with SEO best practices, but ranking depends on competition, content, and time. Most clients see improved Google visibility within 2-4 weeks. Rankings improve continuously over time.

Do you provide SEO services?

Basic SEO is included in all websites (fast loading, proper structure, keyword optimization). For ongoing SEO services (content creation, link building, monthly optimization), we offer dedicated SEO plans starting at $99/month.

What SEO is included in my website?

All websites include: fast page speed, mobile optimization, proper heading structure, meta tags, schema markup, XML sitemap, clean URLs, image optimization, and basic keyword targeting.

How long until I rank on Google?

Most websites start appearing in Google within 1-2 weeks. Meaningful rankings for competitive keywords typically take 2-3 months. SEO is a marathon, not a sprint.

Do you do keyword research?

Yes! We research the best keywords for your business and industry during the design process. For ongoing keyword strategy, this is included in dedicated SEO plans.

Do you build backlinks for SEO?

Backlink building is included in our dedicated SEO plans ($99/month), not in basic website packages. We use white-hat techniques to earn quality backlinks that improve rankings.

Do you write SEO content?

Basic content is included with every website. For ongoing SEO content (blog posts, service pages, location pages), this is available as part of SEO or content plans.

Do you optimize for local SEO?

Yes! All websites include local SEO optimization targeting "[your service] + [your city]" searches. We also help set up Google Business Profile for maximum local visibility.

Do you set up Google Business Profile?

Yes! We can set up or optimize your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) to appear in local map searches. Critical for local businesses.

Do you track keyword rankings?

Ranking tracking is included in dedicated SEO plans. We provide monthly reports showing your keyword rankings, traffic growth, and conversion metrics.

Do you guarantee #1 Google rankings?

No one can guarantee #1 rankings (Google says so too). We guarantee continuous improvement, best practices, and measurable traffic growth. Real SEO takes time but delivers lasting results.

Can you fix a Google penalty?

Yes! If your website has been penalized by Google, we can audit the issues, fix problems, and submit reconsideration requests. Most penalties can be recovered from.

Do you provide monthly SEO reports?

SEO plans include monthly reports showing keyword rankings, traffic stats, and progress. Basic website plans include Google Analytics access but no formal reports.

What SEO tools do you use?

We use industry-standard tools: Google Search Console, Google Analytics, Ahrefs, SEMrush, and technical SEO tools. You get the benefits without paying for expensive tools yourself.

Can I do SEO myself after launch?

Yes! Your website is SEO-ready from day one. You can create content and optimize pages yourself. However, most clients prefer our SEO plans because it's complex and time-consuming.

How long does it take to see SEO results?

Typical SEO results take 3-6 months to become noticeable. Local SEO can show results faster, sometimes within 4-8 weeks. Factors include competition, your starting point, and how aggressive your SEO strategy is. SEO is a marathon, not a sprint, but the results compound over time.

What's the difference between SEO and SEM?

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is getting free organic traffic from search engines. SEM (Search Engine Marketing) includes paid ads like Google Ads. SEO takes longer but builds long-term value. SEM delivers immediate results but stops when you stop paying. Most businesses benefit from both.

What is local SEO and why does it matter?

Local SEO helps your business appear in location-based searches like "plumber near me" or "dentist Sydney". It includes optimizing your Google Business Profile, getting reviews, building local citations, and location-based content. For service businesses serving a specific area, local SEO is often more valuable than broad SEO.

Do I need a blog for SEO?

Not necessarily. A blog helps SEO by creating fresh content and targeting more keywords, but it's not required. Service businesses often get better results from optimizing service pages, building reviews, and local SEO. Only start a blog if you can commit to regular, quality content. One great service page beats 10 mediocre blog posts.

51website-building Questions

What is your custom website design process?

Our custom website design process is straightforward and collaborative. First, we conduct a discovery session to understand your business, target audience, and design preferences. Our design team then creates initial mockups based on your brand and goals. You review the designs and request any changes - we offer unlimited revisions until you're completely satisfied. Once approved, our developers build your website using modern technology. Throughout the process, you have direct access to your project team via email, phone, or video call. Most custom websites are completed within 7-14 days from initial consultation to launch.

What is responsive web design and why is it important?

Responsive web design means your website automatically adapts to any screen size - desktop, tablet, or mobile phone. It's crucial because over 65% of Australians browse websites on mobile devices. Google also prioritises mobile-friendly websites in search rankings. A non-responsive site frustrates users, increases bounce rates, and hurts your SEO. All Velosites websites are built with responsive design as standard. We test on multiple devices to ensure perfect display across all screen sizes. Your customers will have an excellent experience whether they're on a phone in a cafe or a desktop at work.

Do you offer website redesign services for existing sites?

Absolutely! We specialise in website redesigns for businesses with outdated, slow, or underperforming websites. Our redesign service includes a complete visual refresh, modern technology upgrade, improved user experience, mobile optimisation, and SEO enhancement. We'll migrate all your existing content, set up proper redirects to maintain SEO value, and ensure zero downtime during the transition. Many clients come to us to escape slow WordPress sites or poorly designed DIY websites. Redesign pricing starts at $49/month, the same as new websites. We'll analyse your current site, identify issues, and create a redesign strategy that achieves your business goals.

Can you design landing pages for marketing campaigns?

Yes! We create high-converting landing pages specifically designed for marketing campaigns, product launches, or lead generation. Unlike full websites, landing pages focus on a single conversion goal - whether that's capturing email addresses, booking appointments, or generating sales. We apply conversion optimisation principles including compelling headlines, clear value propositions, social proof, and strong calls-to-action. Landing pages typically convert 2-5 times better than sending traffic to general website pages. Pricing starts at $19/month per landing page. We can create multiple variations for A/B testing to maximise your campaign performance.

How many pages should my business website have?

Most business websites include 5-10 core pages: Home, About, Services, Portfolio/Gallery, Contact, and sometimes Blog, Testimonials, FAQ, and Privacy Policy. The exact number depends on your business complexity and goals. Service businesses might need separate pages for each service. E-commerce sites need product category pages. The key is having enough pages to properly explain your offerings without overwhelming visitors. We help plan your site structure during the discovery phase. You're not limited - we can add as many pages as needed. Focus on quality over quantity. Five excellent pages convert better than 20 mediocre ones.

Do you create wireframes before designing my website?

Yes, for complex websites we create wireframes during the planning phase. Wireframes are simple layouts showing where content, images, and buttons will appear - think of them as blueprints for your website. They help you visualise the structure before we invest time in detailed design. For simpler websites, we often skip wireframing and go straight to visual design, which is faster. If you prefer seeing wireframes first, just let us know. Our goal is finding the right balance between thorough planning and quick delivery. Most clients are happy reviewing actual design mockups rather than grey box wireframes.

Will I see mockups before my website is built?

Yes! We create visual mockups showing exactly how your website will look before any coding begins. You'll see the design for key pages including the homepage and important service pages. We present mockups as static images or interactive prototypes, depending on project complexity. You can request unlimited changes to colours, layouts, images, or any design element. We don't start development until you approve the final design. This ensures you get exactly what you want without surprises. Most clients need 1-3 revision rounds before approving mockups. We encourage detailed feedback - it's much easier to change designs than finished websites.

Can you add parallax scrolling and animations to my website?

Absolutely! We can incorporate modern design effects including parallax scrolling (where background images move slower than foreground content), fade-in animations, hover effects, and smooth transitions. These effects enhance user experience and make websites more engaging. However, we use them strategically - too many animations can slow websites and distract from your message. We balance visual appeal with performance and usability. All animations are optimised for mobile devices where performance matters most. Let us know during the design phase if you want specific effects. We'll show examples and recommend what works best for your brand and audience.

Should I have a one-page website or multi-page website?

It depends on your business and goals. One-page websites work well for simple businesses with a single service, portfolios, or landing pages. They're easy to navigate and work brilliantly on mobile. However, multi-page websites are better for most businesses because they allow more content for SEO, better organisation of complex information, and deeper engagement. Service businesses typically need multi-page sites to properly explain each service. E-commerce obviously needs multiple pages for products. If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a focused multi-page site (5-7 pages). We can discuss the best structure for your specific business during consultation.

Can my website have video backgrounds?

Yes! Video backgrounds can create stunning first impressions, especially for creative industries, restaurants, real estate, and fitness businesses. We can add video to your homepage hero section or other key areas. However, video backgrounds must be implemented carefully to avoid slow loading times. We compress videos, use modern formats, and implement lazy loading to maintain fast page speeds. Video should enhance your message, not distract from it. We recommend short loops (10-15 seconds) showing your business, products, or team. You can provide footage or we can source stock video matching your brand. Video backgrounds work best on desktop; we typically show static images on mobile for performance.

How do I choose the right colour scheme for my website?

Choosing website colours should align with your brand identity and industry psychology. If you have existing brand colours, we'll use those as the foundation. If starting fresh, we guide you through colour psychology - blue conveys trust (popular for finance, healthcare), green suggests growth and eco-friendliness, red creates urgency (e-commerce), and so on. We typically recommend 2-3 primary colours plus neutral greys and whites. Your colour scheme should provide good contrast for readability and accessibility. We create several colour palette options during the design phase. Consider your competitors too - you want to stand out while fitting industry expectations. We handle all the technical details of applying colours consistently across your entire website.

Do you create custom illustrations for websites?

Yes! Custom illustrations can differentiate your brand and make your website memorable. We work with professional illustrators to create bespoke graphics matching your brand style. Custom illustrations are particularly effective for SaaS companies, tech startups, children's businesses, and brands wanting a unique visual identity. Pricing depends on complexity and quantity - simple icon sets start around $200, while full illustration packages range $500-2000. Alternatively, we can source high-quality stock illustrations that fit your brand for no additional cost. Many businesses get excellent results mixing custom illustrations for key areas with stock graphics elsewhere. We'll recommend the best approach for your budget and brand goals.

How important is typography and font selection for websites?

Typography is critically important but often overlooked. The right fonts improve readability, reinforce your brand personality, and create visual hierarchy. We select 2-3 complementary fonts - typically one for headings and one for body text. Fonts must be web-safe or properly licensed for website use. Consider your audience: professional services need clean, authoritative fonts while creative industries can use more expressive typography. Font size, spacing, and line height matter as much as the font itself. Poor typography causes eye strain and high bounce rates. We choose accessible, mobile-friendly typography that looks excellent across all devices. During design, we'll present font pairings that match your brand personality and industry expectations.

Can you add photo galleries and portfolios to my website?

Absolutely! Photo galleries and portfolios are essential for many businesses. We implement professional galleries with lightbox viewing, categories/filters, captions, and mobile-optimised layouts. Options include grid galleries, masonry layouts, slider carousels, or full-screen portfolios. Photographers, builders, landscapers, restaurants, and creative professionals particularly benefit from strong portfolio displays. We optimise all images for fast loading while maintaining visual quality. Galleries can include unlimited images organised into categories. You can easily add or update images yourself, or send them to us for uploading. We'll recommend the best gallery style for your industry and content during the design phase.

Why is whitespace important in website design?

Whitespace (or negative space) is the empty space around elements on your website. Far from being wasted space, whitespace improves readability, creates visual hierarchy, and makes designs feel premium and sophisticated. Cramped websites with little whitespace overwhelm visitors and hurt conversions. Generous whitespace guides the eye to important content, makes text easier to read, and allows design elements to breathe. Luxury brands use abundant whitespace to convey elegance. We balance whitespace with information density - your website should feel spacious without seeming empty. Mobile screens particularly need whitespace for comfortable browsing. During design, we carefully plan spacing to create a clean, professional appearance that encourages engagement.

What is above-the-fold content and why does it matter?

Above-the-fold refers to content visible without scrolling - what visitors see immediately when your page loads. It's your first impression and most valuable website real estate. Above-the-fold should communicate who you are, what you offer, and include a clear call-to-action. Most visitors decide within 3 seconds whether to stay or leave based on above-the-fold content. We design this area strategically with compelling headlines, benefit statements, and engaging visuals. Common mistakes include cluttered layouts, generic stock photos, or burying key information. We A/B test different above-the-fold approaches to maximise engagement. While users scroll more than they used to, making a strong immediate impact remains crucial for conversion.

What should be included in my website footer?

Website footers are valuable real estate for navigation and information. We typically include: key page links (About, Services, Contact, Privacy Policy), contact information (phone, email, address), social media links, newsletter signup, opening hours, accreditations or trust badges, and copyright notice. Footers help SEO by providing internal links and keyword-rich content. They also assist users who scroll to the bottom looking for specific information. We design footers that are informative without being cluttered. Multi-column layouts work well for desktop while stacking content works for mobile. Footer design should match your overall brand but can be slightly more information-dense than body sections. We'll plan your footer content during the design process.

How do you design effective hero sections for websites?

Hero sections are the large banner area at the top of your homepage - typically the first thing visitors see. Effective heroes include a compelling headline addressing your audience's main need, a descriptive subheadline explaining your unique value, a clear call-to-action button, and a relevant hero image or video. We avoid generic stock photos in favour of authentic images of your business, team, or work. The hero should communicate your core message within 3 seconds. We test different headline formulas, CTAs, and imagery to optimise conversion. Mobile hero sections require particular attention - they have less space but more visitors. Your hero section establishes tone and credibility, so we invest significant design effort here.

How should call-to-action buttons be designed?

Call-to-action (CTA) buttons are critical for conversion. Effective CTAs use action-oriented text ("Get Started", "Book Now", "Download Guide" rather than generic "Submit" or "Click Here"), contrasting colours that stand out from the page, adequate size for easy clicking especially on mobile, and strategic placement where users naturally look. We limit CTAs to 1-2 per screen section to avoid decision paralysis. Button text should create urgency or value ("Start Free Trial" beats "Sign Up"). Testing shows specific copy like "Get My Free Quote" outperforms generic alternatives. We design buttons with hover effects and ensure they're accessible. Placement matters too - repeating CTAs throughout long pages increases conversion. We optimise CTA design and placement based on industry best practices.

What are website navigation best practices?

Good navigation is intuitive, accessible, and helps visitors find information quickly. Best practices include: limiting top-level menu items to 5-7 options, using clear descriptive labels (not clever names), maintaining consistent navigation across all pages, including a visible search function for larger sites, using dropdown menus sparingly, making mobile navigation touch-friendly with adequate spacing, and including breadcrumbs for deeper page hierarchies. Your logo should link to the homepage. Important pages can appear in multiple places (footer, header, sidebar). We avoid mega-menus unless necessary for large sites. Navigation should guide users toward conversion goals while being helpful, not manipulative. We design navigation based on user behaviour research and your specific content structure.

Do you build websites that meet accessibility standards?

Yes! We build websites following WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) 2.1 Level AA standards where possible. This ensures your website is usable by people with disabilities including visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments. Accessibility features include proper heading hierarchy, alternative text for images, sufficient colour contrast, keyboard navigation support, screen reader compatibility, and clear form labels. Beyond legal compliance, accessibility makes your website better for everyone - clear navigation and good contrast benefit all users. Government and education sites must meet accessibility standards by law. Even if not required, accessibility broadens your potential audience. We implement accessibility best practices by default and can conduct formal audits for organisations requiring certification.

What is mobile-first design and do you use it?

Mobile-first design means designing for mobile devices first, then expanding to larger screens. It's the opposite of traditional desktop-first design. We use mobile-first approaches because: over 65% of Australians browse primarily on mobile, Google uses mobile versions for search ranking, starting with mobile constraints forces focus on essential content, and it's easier to scale up than down. Mobile-first doesn't mean mobile-only - your website will look excellent on all devices. We prioritise touch-friendly buttons, readable text sizes without zooming, simple navigation, and fast loading on mobile networks. Then we enhance the experience for tablets and desktops with additional features and more sophisticated layouts. This approach creates better websites for the majority of your visitors.

Can you build Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)?

Yes! Progressive Web Apps are websites that function like mobile apps - they can work offline, send push notifications, be installed on home screens, and load instantly. PWAs are brilliant for businesses wanting app-like experiences without developing separate iOS and Android apps. They're perfect for e-commerce stores, service booking platforms, and content sites. PWAs cost significantly less than native apps while working across all devices. Starbucks, Twitter, and Pinterest use PWAs successfully. However, not every business needs PWA features - many sites work perfectly as traditional responsive websites. We'll assess whether PWA features benefit your specific use case. PWA development starts at $199/month depending on complexity and required features.

What are skeleton screens and should my website use them?

Skeleton screens are placeholder content shown while a page loads - animated grey boxes indicating where text and images will appear. They make websites feel faster by giving immediate visual feedback rather than blank screens. Users perceive skeleton screens as 20-30% faster than loading spinners. We implement skeleton screens for content-heavy pages, image galleries, or pages loading dynamic content. They're particularly effective for e-commerce sites and social platforms. However, for fast-loading pages (under 1 second), skeleton screens aren't necessary. We focus on making websites genuinely fast through optimisation rather than relying solely on perception tricks. Skeleton screens are one tool in our performance optimisation toolkit.

Can my website have a dark mode option?

Yes! Dark mode reduces eye strain in low-light conditions and saves battery on OLED screens. It's increasingly popular, especially for tech-savvy audiences. We can implement automatic dark mode that switches based on user device settings, or provide a toggle switch for manual control. Dark mode requires careful design - not all content translates well to dark backgrounds. We adjust colours, images, and contrast to ensure readability in both modes. Dark mode suits tech companies, creative portfolios, and entertainment sites but may not fit traditional professional services. Implementation adds 1-2 days to project timelines. We'll recommend whether dark mode benefits your specific audience during design planning.

What are microinteractions and do they improve websites?

Microinteractions are small, subtle animations that provide feedback - buttons changing colour on hover, loading indicators, form validation messages, or pull-to-refresh animations. They make websites feel responsive and polished. Good microinteractions are almost invisible but significantly improve user experience by confirming actions and reducing uncertainty. Examples include: like buttons animating when clicked, progress indicators for multi-step forms, or success animations after form submission. We implement microinteractions strategically throughout websites. They should enhance, not distract. Excessive animation actually hurts usability. We balance delight with performance - all microinteractions are optimised to avoid slowing websites. These details differentiate professional websites from amateur ones.

What is card-based design and when should it be used?

Card-based design presents content in distinct, rectangular containers - like physical cards. Think Pinterest or Google. Cards work brilliantly for content-heavy sites, blogs, e-commerce product grids, team member profiles, or service listings. They create clear visual hierarchy, work responsively across devices, and allow easy scanning. Cards can include images, text, and buttons in self-contained units. They're particularly effective for mobile where vertical scrolling is natural. However, cards aren't suitable for every site - simple service businesses might not need them. We recommend card layouts when you have multiple similar content items to display. We design cards with appropriate spacing, hover effects, and clear visual affordance that they're clickable when appropriate.

Should my website include breadcrumb navigation?

Breadcrumbs show users their current location in your site hierarchy: Home > Services > Web Design. They're valuable for sites with deep page structures - large e-commerce stores, educational institutions, or extensive service catalogues. Breadcrumbs improve user experience by providing context and easy navigation to parent pages. They also benefit SEO by creating internal links and appearing in search results. However, simple sites with flat structures (5-7 pages) don't need breadcrumbs. We include breadcrumbs on websites with 3+ levels of hierarchy. They appear below the header and use structured data markup for search engines. Breadcrumbs are subtle but useful navigation aids that improve both usability and SEO for complex sites.

Should my website use infinite scroll or pagination?

Infinite scroll loads new content as users scroll down - no "Next Page" buttons. Pagination breaks content into discrete pages. Infinite scroll works well for social media, image galleries, and discovery-oriented browsing. It's engaging and keeps users on-page longer. However, pagination is better for goal-oriented searching (finding specific products), sites with important footer content, and SEO - each page is indexable. E-commerce sites often use pagination for product listings so users can bookmark specific pages. We recommend infinite scroll for blogs or portfolios where engagement matters most, pagination for e-commerce or when users need to process information systematically. We can also implement hybrid approaches - pagination with "Load More" buttons.

Should my website have a sticky header that stays visible when scrolling?

Sticky headers (fixed navigation that remains visible while scrolling) improve usability by keeping menu options accessible without scrolling back to the top. They're particularly valuable for long-scrolling pages or sites where users frequently switch between sections. However, sticky headers consume vertical space - critical on mobile screens. We design adaptive sticky headers that appear on desktop but collapse on mobile, or shrink when scrolling to reduce space usage. Sticky headers should include your logo and essential navigation links. They prevent users from feeling lost on long pages. For very short pages (single screen), sticky headers aren't necessary. We implement sticky headers strategically based on your content length and user needs.

Should my website use grid layouts or asymmetric designs?

Grid layouts align content in structured columns and rows - clean, organised, and professional. Asymmetric layouts break the grid with overlapping elements and unexpected positioning - creative and attention-grabbing. Grid layouts suit professional services, healthcare, education, and businesses prioritising trust and clarity. They're easier to make responsive. Asymmetric designs work for creative industries, agencies, and brands wanting to stand out. They're more complex to design and develop but create memorable impressions. Most websites use primarily grid layouts with occasional asymmetric elements for visual interest. We rarely recommend fully asymmetric layouts unless your brand is inherently creative. During design, we'll recommend the approach matching your industry expectations and brand personality.

Should mobile navigation use hamburger menus or be visible?

The hamburger menu (three horizontal lines) is standard for mobile navigation when you have many menu items. It saves space but hides navigation. Research shows hamburger menus can reduce discovery and engagement. Alternatives include: tab bars at the bottom (like apps), priority+ pattern (showing most important items with overflow in hamburger), or full-screen navigation on mobile. We typically use hamburger menus for sites with 5+ top-level pages because they're familiar and work well. For simpler sites, we might display all navigation links in a bottom tab bar. The key is making mobile navigation thumb-friendly with adequate tap targets. We test navigation usability on actual devices during development to ensure comfortable browsing.

Should my website have a loading animation or splash screen?

Generally, no. Loading animations and splash screens delay visitors from accessing content. Every second matters - 53% of mobile users abandon sites taking over 3 seconds to load. Loading screens were popular when websites were slow, but modern websites should load fast enough not to need them. The exception is if loading substantial content that genuinely requires time (complex 3D models, large datasets). Even then, skeleton screens or progressive loading are better than splash screens. If you want branded loading indicators for very brief loading states (under 1 second), we can implement subtle animations. Our focus is making websites load quickly enough that loading indicators are barely noticeable.

Is minimalist website design right for my business?

Minimalist design emphasises simplicity, ample whitespace, and essential content only. It works beautifully for luxury brands, creative portfolios, tech companies, and businesses wanting to convey sophistication. Benefits include faster loading, clear focus on key messages, and timeless aesthetics. However, minimalism isn't suitable for every business. E-commerce sites need to show multiple products. Service businesses need to explain complex offerings. Minimalism done wrong looks empty or unhelpful. The key is "simple but not simplistic" - removing clutter while retaining necessary information. We can design minimalist websites that balance aesthetics with functionality. During consultation, we'll assess whether minimalist design serves your business goals or if more content-rich designs are appropriate.

Do you design custom icons for websites?

Yes! Custom icons can strengthen brand identity and improve visual communication. We create icon sets matching your brand style - whether minimalist line icons, solid icons, or illustrated icons. Custom icons are particularly effective for service listings, feature sections, process diagrams, or navigation elements. Pricing depends on quantity and complexity - simple icon sets (10-15 icons) start around $150, while comprehensive sets cost more. Alternatively, we can use high-quality icon libraries (Font Awesome, Material Icons) that provide thousands of professional icons at no cost. Many businesses get excellent results with icon libraries customised to brand colours. We'll recommend the best approach during design based on your budget and how distinctively branded you want your icons.

Can you create split-screen designs for websites?

Absolutely! Split-screen designs divide pages into two distinct vertical sections - perfect for showing before/after comparisons, product variations, or contrasting content. They create visual interest and work particularly well for portfolios, case studies, or comparison pages. Split-screen layouts can be static or interactive (with hover effects or slider controls). They're excellent for storytelling - showing problem and solution side-by-side. However, split-screen designs require careful implementation for mobile where vertical stacking works better than side-by-side. We ensure split-screen sections are responsive and maintain impact across devices. These layouts are bold and modern, ideal for brands wanting contemporary aesthetics.

Should my website have image sliders or carousels?

Sliders and carousels are controversial in web design. They can showcase multiple messages or images in one space, but research shows they often reduce conversion. Problems include: users rarely see slides beyond the first, automatic rotation annoys visitors trying to read, they slow page loading, and they perform poorly on mobile. However, sliders work well for specific use cases: product image galleries (Amazon-style), client testimonials, or portfolio showcases where users control navigation. We implement user-controlled sliders rather than auto-rotating ones. For homepage hero sections, we typically recommend single, strong messages over sliders. If you want a slider, we'll design one that's optimised and user-friendly. But often, a well-designed static section converts better.

Should my website use full-width or boxed layouts?

Full-width (edge-to-edge) layouts utilise the entire screen width, creating modern, immersive experiences. They work well for image-heavy sites, portfolios, or brands wanting bold visuals. Boxed layouts constrain content to a maximum width (usually 1200-1400px) with space on sides of ultra-wide screens. They improve readability by preventing excessively long text lines and feel more traditional. Many websites use hybrid approaches - full-width hero sections and featured images, boxed layouts for text content. This combines visual impact with readable text. We recommend hybrid layouts for most businesses. Ultra-modern brands might prefer fully full-width designs. Professional services often suit boxed layouts. We'll design layouts that balance aesthetics, readability, and your brand personality.

What are mega menus and when should they be used?

Mega menus are large dropdown panels showing many navigation options at once - often with images, icons, and multi-column layouts. They're useful for complex sites with many product categories or services. E-commerce sites like Amazon use mega menus to display product hierarchies. Benefits include showing more options without multiple dropdowns, visual preview with images, and easier navigation of complex structures. However, mega menus are overkill for simple sites. They require careful design to avoid overwhelming users. Mobile mega menus need special consideration as they consume significant screen space. We implement mega menus for sites with 20+ pages across multiple categories. For smaller sites, simple dropdown menus or standard navigation work better.

What are F-pattern and Z-pattern layouts?

These are common eye-tracking patterns showing how users scan webpages. F-pattern: users scan horizontally across the top, down the left side, then across again - forming an F shape. Common for text-heavy pages. Z-pattern: eyes move top-left to top-right, diagonally down, then left to right again - forming a Z. Effective for simple pages with minimal text and clear visual hierarchy. We use these patterns when designing layouts. Important elements go where eyes naturally land. Headlines, navigation, and calls-to-action are positioned along these scan paths. On F-pattern pages, we put key information in the left column. On Z-pattern pages, we guide users from hero text to CTA button following the Z. Understanding reading patterns helps create intuitive, high-converting layouts.

How should customer testimonials be displayed on websites?

Testimonials build trust and influence conversions significantly. Effective testimonial displays include: customer photo (builds authenticity), full name and role (not just initials), specific results or benefits (not vague praise), and ideally company name or website link. Display formats include: hero section featured testimonial, dedicated testimonials page, carousel/slider on homepage, sidebar testimonials on service pages, or video testimonials (most persuasive but harder to collect). We recommend spreading testimonials throughout your website rather than isolating them on one page. Homepage, service pages, and before contact forms are strategic locations. For maximum impact, use testimonials addressing specific objections. We'll help you gather and present testimonials that genuinely influence prospects.

Should my website display trust badges and security seals?

Trust badges and security seals increase credibility and conversion, especially for e-commerce sites. Effective badges include: SSL/security certificates, payment provider logos (Visa, PayPal, Stripe), industry accreditations, awards or certifications, "money-back guarantee" seals, and "Australian owned" badges. Display them near purchase buttons, checkout pages, or footer areas. However, use genuine badges only - fake badges damage trust when discovered. Not all businesses need trust badges. Service companies benefit more from customer testimonials and portfolios. E-commerce sites particularly need security reassurance. We help identify which trust elements are authentic and relevant for your business, then incorporate them strategically without cluttering design.

How should pricing pages be designed for maximum conversion?

Effective pricing pages are transparent, easy to compare, and guide users toward a decision. Best practices include: displaying 3 pricing tiers (research shows 3 options convert best), highlighting the recommended plan, listing features clearly with checkmarks/crosses for comparison, including "most popular" badges, showing prices prominently with billing period clarity, addressing common questions with FAQ below plans, and having clear CTAs for each plan. Avoid hiding prices or requiring contact for quotes unless you sell truly custom solutions. Transparency builds trust. Use visual hierarchy to emphasise your target plan. Include testimonials or case studies near pricing. For complex pricing, offer a calculator or configurator. We design pricing pages that present information clearly while psychologically guiding prospects toward suitable options.

What are best practices for website forms?

Forms are critical conversion points requiring careful design. Best practices include: asking only for essential information (every field reduces completion rate), using clear, specific labels, providing inline validation feedback, making required fields obvious, ensuring mobile-friendly tap targets, adding helpful placeholder text, grouping related fields logically, showing progress indicators for long forms, and writing action-oriented submit buttons ("Get My Free Quote" instead of "Submit"). Avoid multi-column layouts on mobile. Use appropriate input types (email field with @ key, telephone field with number pad). Consider breaking long forms into multi-step formats with progress indicators. We design forms that balance collecting necessary information with minimising friction. Every form is tested on actual devices to ensure smooth completion.

Can you create coming soon and maintenance pages?

Yes! Coming soon pages are essential when launching new websites or features. Effective coming soon pages include: compelling headline explaining what's coming, email signup to notify when launching (capture early interest), approximate launch date or countdown timer, social media links to stay connected, and your brand identity. Maintenance pages show during updates or technical work. They should apologise for inconvenience, explain when the site will return, provide alternative contact methods, and maintain brand consistency. Both pages need responsive design and fast loading. We can create beautiful coming soon and maintenance pages as part of your project. Some clients use coming soon pages to build email lists before launching, creating buzz and early customers.

How important is custom 404 error page design?

Very important! 404 pages appear when visitors click broken links or mistype URLs. Generic 404 pages are frustrating and cause visitors to leave. Custom 404 pages turn errors into opportunities by including: friendly, helpful messaging (not technical jargon), working search functionality, links to popular pages, navigation menu, clear path back to homepage, and sometimes humour matching your brand. Creative 404 pages can actually improve brand perception. We design 404 pages that acknowledge the error, don't blame users, and helpfully guide them to relevant content. A well-designed 404 page recovers potential lost visitors and maintains positive brand experience. We include custom 404 pages in all website projects.

Do you create print stylesheets for websites?

Yes, when relevant! Print stylesheets control how webpages look when printed. They're particularly important for articles, policies, invoices, tickets, certificates, or documentation that users might print. Print styles remove navigation, ads, and other screen-only elements, expand hidden content (like dropdown menus), optimise colours for paper (dark backgrounds become white), and ensure readable font sizes. Most websites don't need sophisticated print styles. But blogs, news sites, educational institutions, and businesses generating printable content should have them. We implement basic print optimisation by default and can create detailed print stylesheets for content-heavy sites. Proper print styles improve user experience for the minority who still print webpages.

What content layout options are available for my website?

We offer numerous content layout options: single-column (simple, mobile-friendly), two-column with sidebar (traditional blogs), three-column (content-heavy sites), grid layouts (portfolios, products), masonry layouts (Pinterest-style varying heights), magazine layouts (news sites with featured content), asymmetric layouts (creative impact), full-width sections alternating with boxed content, and split-screen sections. Layout choice depends on your content type and business goals. E-commerce needs product grids. Blogs work well with sidebar layouts. Portfolios shine with masonry grids. Service pages often use alternating left-right sections with images. We recommend layouts during design that serve your specific content and audience. Most websites use multiple layout types across different pages.

Can you combine parallax effects with video backgrounds?

Yes! Parallax video backgrounds create stunning visual effects where video plays at different speeds or depths as users scroll. They're powerful for storytelling, product showcases, or creating immersive brand experiences. However, they're technically complex and performance-intensive. We only recommend parallax video for hero sections or key pages, not throughout entire websites. Videos must be highly compressed, and we provide fallback static images for slow connections or mobile devices. These effects work best on desktop; mobile gets simplified versions. Parallax video suits luxury brands, creative agencies, real estate showcases, or products deserving dramatic presentation. We'll assess whether the impact justifies the complexity and ensure implementation doesn't compromise page speed.

What are modular content blocks and can I use them?

Modular content blocks (also called flexible content or page builder blocks) are pre-designed sections you can mix and match to build pages - like LEGO blocks. Common blocks include: hero sections, feature lists, testimonial sections, CTAs, image galleries, team members, and pricing tables. Benefits include: easy page creation without coding, consistent design across pages, and flexibility to create unique layouts. We can build websites with modular systems if you want editing flexibility. However, true custom designs offer more creative freedom. Modular approaches work well for marketing teams regularly creating landing pages. Service businesses with static content might not need this complexity. We'll recommend whether modular blocks benefit your specific needs.

Can you build websites without using generic stock photos?

Absolutely! Generic stock photos (business people shaking hands, laptops with coffee) actually harm credibility. Authentic imagery of your real business, team, products, or work is far more persuasive. Options include: professional photography of your business (we can arrange), smartphone photos if high quality, product photography, before/after photos of your work, or custom illustrations. If stock images are necessary, we source authentic-looking, diverse, and relevant photos - not corporate cliches. Many successful websites use no photography at all, relying on illustrations, graphics, or minimalist design. We strongly recommend investing in real photos of your business. They build trust immeasurably better than stock images. We'll guide you on gathering effective imagery.

43ecommerce Questions

What e-commerce features does Velosites provide?

Velosites provides comprehensive e-commerce capabilities including: unlimited products with variants (size, colour, etc.), secure payment processing via Stripe and Square, inventory management with low stock alerts, order management dashboard, customer accounts and wishlists, discount codes and promotions, shipping calculations with multiple carriers, tax calculations for Australian GST, abandoned cart recovery emails, product reviews and ratings, and mobile-optimised checkout. All features integrate seamlessly with your website design. Unlike template-based solutions, we custom-build e-commerce functionality matching your brand. Our e-commerce sites typically achieve 2-3% conversion rates, above industry average. The $49/month plan includes all features with zero transaction fees, unlike Shopify which charges 2% on basic plans.

Which payment gateways do you integrate with?

We integrate with all major Australian payment gateways: Stripe (recommended - 1.75% + 30¢), Square (1.9% + 30¢), PayPal (2.6% + 30¢), and Afterpay for buy-now-pay-later. Stripe offers the best rates and supports credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and digital wallets. For international businesses, we support global payment processors. Integration includes: secure PCI-compliant checkout, automatic receipt emails, refund processing, subscription billing for recurring products, and fraud detection. You receive payouts directly to your bank account (2-7 business days). We handle all technical setup - you just provide business details for gateway account creation. Payment security is paramount; all transactions use SSL encryption and we never store customer card details on your website.

How does inventory management work for e-commerce stores?

Our inventory management system provides real-time stock tracking across all products and variants. Features include: automatic stock deduction on orders, low stock alerts (email notifications), out-of-stock handling (hide products or allow backorders), SKU tracking for product organisation, bulk inventory updates via CSV import, product bundling (multiple products as one item), and inventory reports showing bestsellers and slow movers. The system syncs across your website, orders dashboard, and optional POS integration. For businesses with physical stores, we can integrate with inventory management systems like Cin7, TradeGecko, or DEAR Systems. Stock levels update in real-time preventing overselling. The dashboard shows inventory value, turnover rates, and reorder suggestions based on sales velocity.

Can products have multiple variants like size and colour?

Absolutely! Products can have unlimited variants across multiple options. Common setups include: size + colour (t-shirts), size + width (shoes), capacity + colour (water bottles), or any custom attributes. Each variant can have unique: pricing (charge more for XXL), stock levels (10 red mediums, 5 blue larges), SKU codes, weight for shipping, and images. Customers select variants via dropdown menus or visual swatches (colour tiles, size buttons). The system handles complex scenarios like "blue only available in medium and large" or "sale price for red items only". Variant management is visual and intuitive - no spreadsheets required. Most clients set up variants themselves after initial training, but we handle complex configurations. Variant data syncs with inventory and shipping calculations automatically.

How do shipping calculations work for Australian e-commerce?

Shipping calculations integrate with Australian carriers: Australia Post, Sendle, CouriersPlease, and StarTrack. Options include: real-time rates (calculate exact cost based on destination and weight), flat rate shipping ($9.95 Australia-wide), free shipping thresholds (free over $100), table rates (different rates for metro/regional/remote), pickup options (click and collect), and international shipping zones. The system automatically applies GST to shipping for Australian orders. Customers see shipping options at checkout with estimated delivery times. For subscription boxes or regular shippers, we can set up custom rules like "free express for VIP customers" or "flat $5 for orders under 2kg". Shipping labels can generate automatically via carrier APIs. Most businesses use flat rate initially then add real-time rates as volume increases.

Do you provide abandoned cart recovery for e-commerce?

Yes! Abandoned cart recovery is included and can increase sales by 15-30%. When customers add items but don't complete checkout, the system: captures their email (entered at checkout start), waits 1-4 hours (configurable), sends personalised recovery email with cart contents and checkout link, sends follow-up email after 24 hours if still not purchased, and tracks recovery rate in analytics. Emails are beautifully designed matching your brand with product images and "Complete Your Order" buttons. You can customise email timing, copy, and whether to offer incentives (10% off for cart completion). The system excludes customers who purchased elsewhere or requested email removal. Recovery emails have 10-15% conversion rates compared to 2-3% for regular promotional emails. This feature alone can add thousands in recovered revenue monthly for busy stores.

Can customers leave product reviews on my e-commerce store?

Yes! Product reviews build trust and improve conversions significantly. Our review system includes: star ratings (1-5 stars), written reviews with photos, verified purchase badges (reviews from actual customers), review moderation (approve before publishing), review requests (automatic emails asking for reviews post-purchase), helpful voting (mark reviews as helpful), and review replies (respond to customer feedback). Reviews display on product pages with average ratings prominently shown. They improve SEO as unique user-generated content. Google can show review stars in search results (rich snippets) when proper schema markup is used (we include this). You control moderation - auto-approve, manual review, or allow all except flagged content. Most stores see 15-25% conversion rate increases with reviews displayed. We can migrate existing reviews from other platforms during setup.

Can I create discount codes and coupons for my store?

Absolutely! Create unlimited discount codes for promotions. Options include: percentage discounts (20% off), fixed amount discounts ($10 off), free shipping codes, buy-one-get-one offers, product-specific discounts (20% off shoes category), cart value thresholds (discount for orders over $100), first-time customer codes, and limited-use codes (50 redemptions maximum). Codes can be time-limited, customer-specific, or single-use. The system prevents stacking unless you allow it. Track code performance: redemptions, revenue generated, average order value with code. Codes apply automatically at checkout with clear savings displayed. Popular use cases: newsletter signup incentives, influencer unique codes for tracking, seasonal sales, cart abandonment recovery offers, and loyalty rewards. We can also set up automatic discounts (no code required - discounts apply at cart automatically for qualifying orders).

What features do customer accounts provide?

Customer accounts enhance user experience and encourage repeat purchases. Account features include: order history with reorder buttons, saved addresses (billing and shipping), payment methods (saved cards - securely stored by payment gateway, not on your site), wishlists and favourites, loyalty points tracking, subscription management (for recurring products), personal recommendations based on purchase history, and download access (for digital products). Customers can track order status, download invoices, and initiate returns. Registration can be optional (guest checkout available) or required based on your preference. Social login options (Google, Facebook) reduce registration friction. Accounts enable email marketing segmentation - target customers based on purchase history, wishlisted items, or cart contents. Account dashboards are mobile-optimised and brandmatching your website design.

Can I sell digital products like ebooks or courses?

Yes! Selling digital products is fully supported with: secure file hosting, automatic delivery via download links (emailed immediately after purchase), download limit controls (3 downloads, 48-hour access), file format support (PDF, MP3, video, ZIP, etc.), license key generation for software, streaming for video content (prevent downloading), and integration with course platforms like Teachable or Thinkific. Digital products require no inventory management or shipping. Customers receive instant access making them perfect for information products, photography, music, templates, software, online courses, or memberships. We can deliver files via email link or through customer accounts. Files are hosted securely with no direct URL exposure preventing unauthorised access. For large files, we use CDN delivery ensuring fast downloads globally. Digital products have excellent profit margins making them popular with creators.

Can I sell subscription products with recurring billing?

Absolutely! Subscription products are increasingly popular: meal kits, coffee subscriptions, membership boxes, software access, or content subscriptions. Our system handles: automatic recurring billing (weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually), flexible subscription management (customers can pause, skip, or cancel), billing notifications before charge, failed payment handling with retry logic, subscription discounts (save 15% on subscription vs one-time purchase), and subscription box variations (customers choose products each cycle). Integration with Stripe Billing ensures reliable charging. You control subscription rules: minimum commitment periods, cancellation policies, and prorated charges. Subscription analytics show: monthly recurring revenue (MRR), churn rate, customer lifetime value, and retention cohorts. Subscriptions provide predictable revenue and higher customer lifetime value compared to one-time purchases. This model transforms products into services.

Can my e-commerce store support multiple currencies?

Yes! Multi-currency support is available for international selling. The system can: display prices in customer's currency (automatic detection or manual selection), process payments in local currency (reducing foreign exchange uncertainty for customers), show currency switcher prominently, use real-time exchange rates (updated daily), round prices to logical amounts ($19.95 USD becomes $29.95 AUD not $28.73), and handle currency-specific pricing (different margins for different markets). Customers see consistent currency throughout shopping experience. Payment processors handle currency conversion. For Australian businesses selling internationally, common currencies include: AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, NZD, and SGD. You set base prices in your primary currency; others convert automatically or you can set manual prices per currency for better control. Multi-currency increases international conversion rates by 20-30% by reducing confusion and trust concerns.

How does the store handle Australian GST and tax calculations?

GST calculations are automatic and compliant with Australian tax law. The system: applies 10% GST to applicable products, identifies GST-free products (unprocessed food, medical, education), calculates tax on shipping when applicable, handles tax inclusive vs exclusive pricing (your choice), exempts international customers (exports are GST-free), generates tax reports for BAS statements, and provides tax invoices with ABN. You configure once during setup whether prices are GST inclusive or exclusive. For businesses registered for GST, the system clearly shows "includes GST" on invoices. Customers see price breakdown at checkout. Tax reports show: total sales, GST collected, GST-free sales, and export sales - formatted ready for your accountant. The system supports mixed carts (some GST-applicable, some GST-free). For multi-state businesses, we can configure different tax rates though Australia has uniform 10% GST.

What features does the order management dashboard have?

The order management dashboard centralises all order operations. Features include: order list with filtering (by status, date, customer), order details view (products, shipping, customer info), status tracking workflow (pending → processing → shipped → delivered), bulk actions (mark multiple shipped), customer communication (send status updates), refund processing, order notes (internal notes visible only to you), export orders to CSV/Excel, print packing slips and invoices, and sales analytics. The dashboard is mobile-accessible for managing orders anywhere. Email notifications go to you and customers at each status change. You can customise notification templates. Integration with shipping carriers enables one-click label generation. For high-volume stores, we add automation: auto-email suppliers, auto-allocate to warehouses, or integrate with fulfilment services. The dashboard provides real-time sales insights: orders today, total revenue, average order value, and top products.

Can I bulk import/export products?

Yes! Bulk product management saves hours for large catalogues. Import/export features include: CSV upload for products (create hundreds at once), image bulk upload with automatic matching, product data export for backup or editing, variant imports (size/colour combinations in spreadsheet), price updates in bulk, inventory adjustments via CSV, and category assignments. Export formats work with Excel or Google Sheets. This is essential when migrating from other platforms - we can often export from Shopify/WooCommerce and import to Velosites with minimal manual work. The system validates imports catching errors before applying: duplicate SKUs, invalid prices, missing required fields. We provide CSV templates showing correct format. For stores with hundreds/thousands of products, bulk operations are mandatory for efficient management. You can also export for accounting or supplier ordering purposes.

Can customers pre-order or backorder out-of-stock items?

Absolutely! Pre-order and backorder capabilities maximise sales. Options include: allow backorders (customers can order despite zero stock), pre-order products (launch before stock arrives), estimated availability dates ("ships in 2 weeks"), waitlist signups (notify when back in stock), limited pre-orders (accept 50 pre-orders then stop), deposit collection (50% now, 50% on ship), and separate fulfil queues (ship backorders when stock arrives). You control messaging - "available for pre-order", "temporarily out of stock, shipping soon", or "currently unavailable". Pre-orders secure sales you'd otherwise lose. Customers appreciate knowing when products will be available rather than checking back repeatedly. The system tracks pre-order quantities separately from regular inventory. Automated emails notify customers when their backordered items ship. This feature is popular for seasonal products, limited editions, or small businesses without deep inventory.

Do you provide product recommendations to increase sales?

Yes! Product recommendations increase average order value by 10-30%. Recommendation types include: related products (shown on product pages), frequently bought together (based on order data), similar products (same category/attributes), recently viewed (reminder of browsed items), bestsellers (social proof), new arrivals (keep store fresh), and personalised recommendations (based on customer history). Recommendations appear on product pages, cart page, and post-purchase emails. The AI learns from actual purchase patterns - products often bought together automatically get cross-recommended. You can also manually configure recommendations ("recommend wireless mouse with laptop"). Recommendations work immediately using general bestseller logic, then become personalised as order data accumulates. This is crucial for increasing average order value from $50 to $65 - that extra $15 adds up significantly over hundreds of orders monthly.

Can I sell digital gift cards and vouchers?

Absolutely! Gift cards are excellent for generating revenue and attracting new customers. Features include: customisable denominations ($25, $50, $100, or custom amount), digital delivery via email (recipient receives code instantly), physical gift cards (mail printed cards), personalised messages (sender adds note), gift card balance checking, partial redemption (use $30 of $50 card, $20 remains), expiry dates (if required by your business), and usage tracking. Gift cards create store credit redeemable at checkout. Recipients often spend more than card value (a $50 card leads to $75 purchase). Gift cards particularly shine during holidays and for "hard to buy for" scenarios. The system prevents fraud: one-time codes, secure generation, and usage audit trails. Gift cards can exclude shipping products or sale items based on your terms. This adds a revenue stream requiring zero inventory or fulfilment.

Can I set minimum or maximum order values?

Yes! Order value rules help with business economics. Common scenarios include: minimum order value ($20 minimum for free delivery viability), maximum order value (fraud prevention or capacity limits), minimum for payment methods (credit cards only for orders over $10), category-specific minimums (wholesale section requires $500 minimum), and customer group rules (VIPs have no minimum, new customers have $10 minimum). The system prevents checkout if rules aren't met, displaying clear messaging: "Add $5 more for minimum order". This is essential for businesses where small orders lose money due to payment processing fees ($0.30 per transaction means $2 orders lose money). Wholesale businesses often set high minimums. Restaurants set delivery minimums. The feature is optional - many stores have no order limits. Rules can combine: minimum $20 OR free pickup, maximum 10 per product for limited releases.

Can I create product bundles and packages?

Absolutely! Product bundles increase average order value. Bundle types include: fixed bundles (laptop + case + mouse sold together), build-your-own bundles (choose 3 of 8 items), tiered bundles (increasing quantity discounts), subscription boxes (curated monthly bundles), and sample packs (try 5 flavours). Bundles can offer: discounted pricing ($100 bundle, items worth $120 separately), simplified purchasing (one click buys multiple items), inventory tracking (bundle deducts from component inventory), and attractive packaging presentation. Popular applications: skincare routines (cleanser + toner + moisturiser), starter kits (beginners need these 3 items), gift sets (pre-assembled giving), or variety packs (try all flavours). Bundles visually present as single products with clear "what's included" lists. Customers can often customise elements: "choose your size", "select 3 colours", etc. Bundles convert 2-3x better than individual products for new customers.

Can customers join a waitlist for out-of-stock products?

Yes! Waitlist notifications capture demand and ensure sales when restocking. Features include: email signup on out-of-stock products, automatic notification emails when restocked, waitlist size visibility (social proof - "127 people waiting!"), priority purchase windows (waitlist gets 48-hour head start), waitlist analytics (which products to restock urgently), and customer segmentation (waitlist subscribers are high-intent). The system prevents overselling - if 50 people waitlist but you get 20 units, only first 20 get purchase invites. This is invaluable for limited-edition products, seasonal restocks, or supply-constrained items. Waitlists show genuine demand helping inventory decisions. Conversion rates from waitlist emails are 15-25% because customers actively requested notification. The feature requires no customer action beyond email entry. It's also useful for coming-soon products allowing early interest capture.

Can I add size guides and fit finders for clothing/shoes?

Absolutely! Size guides reduce returns and improve customer confidence. Implementation options include: pop-up size charts (measurements in cm/inches), fit finder quizzes (answer 4 questions, get size recommendation), product-specific sizing (each product has custom guide), video guides (model demonstrates fit), size comparison (compares to other brands), international sizing (AU/US/UK/EU conversions), and customer measurement tools. Size guides can be simple PDFs or interactive JavaScript tools asking height, weight, and fit preference. For apparel businesses, this feature is essential - wrong size is the #1 return reason. We can display model measurements and size worn. Advanced implementations use AI suggesting sizes based on previous purchases or measurements. The guide links prominently on product pages. Returns decrease by 20-30% with comprehensive size guidance. We can create guides from your existing information or develop new professional guides.

What email marketing automation is available for e-commerce?

Comprehensive email automation drives repeat purchases. Automations include: welcome series (3 emails introducing new subscribers), abandoned cart recovery (1-2 emails with cart contents), post-purchase follow-up (thank you, review request), repeat order reminders (replenish consumables), win-back campaigns (re-engage inactive customers), birthday/anniversary emails (with special offers), VIP rewards (recognise top customers), and cross-sell campaigns (based on purchases). Integrations with Mailchimp, Klaviyo, or built-in email system enable sophisticated segmentation: targeting by purchase history, location, or engagement level. Email marketing ROI averages $42 per $1 spent for e-commerce. Automations run continuously requiring minimal ongoing input. You control frequency preventing customer fatigue. All emails are mobile-optimised, branded matching your store, and include product images with buy buttons. Analytics show: open rates, click rates, revenue per email, and overall email attribution.

How do returns and refunds work for e-commerce stores?

Returns and refund management is streamlined for both you and customers. Features include: customer-initiated returns (through account portal), return reasons tracking (why returned? helps improve), automatic RMA number generation, return shipping labels (optional), refund processing (full/partial refunds), store credit option (instead of refund to card), restocking workflows (inspect returned item, restock if good), exchange handling (return for different size/colour), and return analytics (return rate by product). You set return policy: timeframe (30 days), conditions (unworn, tags attached), who pays shipping, and what qualifies for refund vs store credit. Clear return policies increase conversion - customers buy confidently knowing they can return. The system tracks return rates helping identify problematic products. Automated emails confirm return received and refund processed. Average e-commerce return rate is 20-30% for apparel, 5-15% for other categories. Easy returns build trust and encourage future purchases.

Can I have separate wholesale or B2B pricing?

Yes! Wholesale and B2B functionality enables selling to both consumers and trade customers. Features include: customer group pricing (retailers see wholesale prices, consumers see retail), quantity discounts (automatic breaks at 10, 50, 100 units), wholesale-only products (not visible to retail customers), minimum order quantities per customer group, tax exemptions (for trade accounts with ABN), credit payment terms (invoice, net-30 for approved accounts), custom registration (wholesale signup requires approval), and separate checkout experience. Retailers login to see wholesale prices throughout the store. You can offer tiered pricing: bronze/silver/gold wholesalers with different discounts. B2B customers often purchase differently: larger quantities, less frequent, bulk shipping. The system handles mixed models - some businesses have public retail site with private wholesale portal (password-protected section). This enables dual revenue streams without separate websites.

Can customers customise products before ordering?

Absolutely! Product customisation increases perceived value and prevents returns. Customisation types include: text input (engraving, personalisation), dropdown selections (handle colour, lens type), checkboxes (add gift wrapping, include instructions), colour pickers (choose custom colour), file uploads (upload logo for printing), conditional options (if gift wrap, ask message), and price adjustments (customisation adds $10). Popular applications: engraved jewellery (add name), custom clothing (choose fabric, buttons), personalised gifts (add message), configured products (build-your-own computer), made-to-order items (custom dimensions), and print-on-demand (upload artwork). Customisation details appear on orders so fulfilment teams see specifications. You set which options are required vs optional. Images can change based on selections (show product in chosen colour). Customised products typically can't be returned unless defective, which customers accept for personalisation. This differentiation is hard for mass retailers to compete with.

Do you integrate with print-on-demand services?

Yes! Print-on-demand enables selling custom products without inventory. Integrations with: Printful (apparel, homeware), Printify (wide supplier network), Gooten (global fulfilment), SPOD (European focus), and Prodigi (premium quality). How it works: customer orders custom t-shirt, order automatically routes to Printful, they print and ship directly to customer, you keep profit margin. Benefits: zero upfront inventory costs, unlimited SKU range (thousands of product options), automatic fulfilment (hands-off), global shipping, and try products risk-free. Popular product types: custom t-shirts/hoodies, phone cases, mugs, posters, canvas prints, notebooks, and tote bags. You design product mockups; POD service handles production. Profit margins typically 20-40% after POD costs. This is perfect for artists, designers, content creators, or testing product ideas without inventory commitment. Setup includes: product sync, automatic order routing, and customer shipment notifications.

Can I run a dropshipping business with Velosites?

Absolutely! Dropshipping lets you sell without holding inventory. Implementation includes: supplier integrations (via CSV feeds or APIs), automatic order routing (orders forward to suppliers), inventory sync (supplier stock levels update your store), shipping tracking (supplier provides tracking, you forward to customer), and profit margin calculation. Common integrations: AliExpress dropshipping, local Australian wholesalers, specialized suppliers, and multi-vendor marketplaces. The process: customer orders product, you forward order to supplier, supplier ships directly to customer, you keep profit spread. Advantages: no inventory investment, wide product range, low startup costs, location independence. Challenges: lower margins (20-40% typical), shipping times (especially overseas suppliers), quality control (you don't handle products), and competitive markets. Success requires: finding reliable suppliers, competitive pricing, excellent customer service, and marketing differentiation. Australian dropshippers often source locally for faster shipping or import for higher margins.

How is the checkout optimised for conversions?

Checkout optimisation can increase conversion by 35%+. Our implementation includes: one-page checkout (no multi-step friction), guest checkout option (no forced registration), autofill support (address autocomplete), real-time validation (catch errors immediately), progress indicators (clear next steps), trust badges (security seals, money-back guarantee), multiple payment methods prominently displayed, mobile-optimised input (large buttons, numeric keyboards for card numbers), clear pricing breakdown (subtotal + shipping + tax = total), and loading indicators (customer knows payment is processing). We minimize form fields - only essential information. Express checkout options like Apple Pay/Google Pay enable one-click purchasing. The checkout loads quickly (under 2 seconds) preventing abandonment. A/B testing shows small changes impact conversion significantly: changing button colour from green to orange increased conversions 21% for one store. We follow e-commerce best practices honed across thousands of checkouts.

Can I integrate with marketplaces like eBay or Amazon?

Yes! Marketplace integrations expand your reach significantly. Available integrations include: eBay Australia (list products, sync inventory), Amazon Australia (FBA or merchant fulfilled), Catch.com.au (marketplace selling), Facebook Marketplace (automated listings), Google Shopping (product feed), and Etsy (for handmade/vintage). Multi-channel benefits: increased visibility (customers shop on marketplaces), diversified revenue (not dependent on single channel), inventory sync (sell on multiple platforms without overselling), and centralised management (manage all channels from one dashboard). The system automatically: lists products on marketplaces, updates prices across channels, syncs inventory levels, imports marketplace orders into your order dashboard, and generates marketplace-specific content. Each marketplace has different fees, requirements, and audiences. Many businesses use own website for brand-building and margins, marketplaces for volume and discovery. Integration setup requires marketplace seller accounts.

Can I integrate my physical store POS with e-commerce?

Absolutely! POS integration creates unified commerce. Available integrations: Square POS (most popular), Shopify POS, Vend, Lightspeed Retail, and MYOB. Benefits include: unified inventory (sell in-store or online, stock stays synchronised), customer data sync (loyalty points work everywhere), order anywhere fulfil anywhere (buy online, pick up in-store or vice versa), unified reporting (total business sales), and staff management (POS staff can process web orders). Common scenarios: customer buys online, collects in-store (click-and-collect), staff look up products in-store then complete sale online, or process returns from either channel at any location. POS integration is essential for omnichannel retail - customers expect seamless experiences regardless of shopping channel. Setup complexity varies by POS system. Most sync every 15 minutes. This prevents "show-rooming" (customers check in-store, buy online elsewhere) by offering best of both worlds.

What analytics and reporting do e-commerce stores get?

Comprehensive analytics drive business decisions. Reports include: sales performance (daily/weekly/monthly revenue, order count, average order value), product analytics (bestsellers, profit by product, inventory turnover), customer metrics (new vs returning, customer lifetime value, repeat purchase rate), traffic sources (organic, paid, social, direct), conversion rates (overall, by product, by traffic source), cart abandonment rate, email campaign performance, and profitability analysis (revenue - costs = profit). Dashboards visualise trends: sales graphs, top products, top customers, regional sales. Data exports to Excel for deeper analysis. Integration with Google Analytics adds: user behaviour flows, page performance, demographic data, and device analytics. For advanced users, we can implement: cohort analysis (how 2024 customers compare to 2023), RFM segmentation (recency, frequency, monetary value), and predictive analytics (forecasted revenue, churn probability). Understanding data is critical - increase average order value by $5 and monthly revenue jumps 10%.

Can I sell age-restricted products like alcohol or vapes?

Yes, with proper age verification systems. Implementation includes: age gate on homepage (enter birthdate before browsing), checkbox at checkout ("I am over 18"), ID verification integration (upload license), delivery signature requirements (driver verifies age), and restricted product labeling. Compliance varies by product and location: alcohol requires RSA equivalent, tobacco/vapes require age verification, adult content needs age gates, and prescription items need qualification verification. The system can restrict: payment methods (no cash-on-delivery for alcohol), delivery areas (some councils ban alcohol delivery), and purchase limits (maximum quantity per order). We implement legal disclaimers, terms requiring age compliance, and audit trails proving verification attempts. Age-restricted products require higher compliance but command premium margins. For alcohol specifically, we can integrate with providers like Kegstar or Sendle alcohol-approved delivery. This enables premium products like craft beer, boutique wines, or specialty spirits sales.

How do you optimize e-commerce for mobile shoppers?

Mobile optimisation is critical - 65%+ of e-commerce traffic is mobile. Optimisations include: mobile-first design (designed for phones, scales up for desktop), thumb-friendly interface (buttons easily tapped), fast loading (under 3 seconds on 4G), streamlined navigation (hamburger menu, clear categories), large product images (pinch to zoom), simplified filters (most important filters prominent), one-tap checkout (Apple Pay, Google Pay), autofill forms (address autocomplete), and persistent cart (cart follows across devices). Mobile shoppers behave differently: shorter attention spans, thumb scrolling, portrait orientation, variable connectivity. We optimize images aggressively (smaller file sizes), minimize text (concise descriptions), prioritize features (above fold content), and implement progressive web app features (feels app-like). Mobile conversion rates typically lag desktop by 50%, but proper optimisation closes this gap. Testing on actual devices ensures quality - what works on desktop simulator doesn't always work on real phones.

Can customers buy directly through social media?

Absolutely! Social commerce meets customers where they spend time. Integrations include: Facebook Shop (product catalogue on Facebook), Instagram Shopping (tag products in posts/stories), Pinterest Shopping (buyable pins), TikTok Shopping (shoppable videos), and social media buy buttons. Setup involves: syncing product catalogue (automatic updates), enabling checkout (on-platform or redirect to site), and configuring product tags. Benefits: reduced friction (customers buy without leaving social app), impulse purchases (see it, buy it), social proof (friends see purchases), and influencer sales (tag products in posts). For Australian businesses, Instagram Shopping is most effective - highly visual, strong engagement, younger demographics. Content strategy matters: lifestyle photos convert better than product shots, videos outperform images, and user-generated content (customers posting your products) drives authentic sales. Social commerce particularly suits fashion, beauty, homeware, and food businesses where visual appeal drives purchase decisions.

Can I implement a customer loyalty or rewards program?

Yes! Loyalty programs increase repeat purchase rates by 20-40%. Program types include: points-based (earn 1 point per $1, redeem for discounts), tiered rewards (bronze/silver/gold levels with increasing benefits), referral rewards (get $10 for referring friends), VIP programs (top spenders get exclusive perks), and punch cards (buy 10, get 1 free). Implementation features: automatic point accumulation, point balance in customer accounts, redemption at checkout, birthday rewards, anniversary bonuses, and exclusive access (early sales, new products). Psychology matters: points create gamification, progress bars encourage next purchase, and tier progression motivates increased spending. Successful programs balance generosity (attractive rewards) with economics (margins support it). Popular reward structures: 100 points = $5 discount (5% reward rate), free shipping at silver tier, or exclusive products for gold members. Programs work best with clear value communication - "$50 off your next purchase" resonates more than "500 points earned".

How do I manage a subscription box business?

Subscription boxes require specialized features we provide: recurring billing (automatic charges each cycle), flexible subscriptions (customers can pause, modify, or cancel), curation management (change box contents monthly), shipping management (coordinate bulk shipments), customer preferences (dietary restrictions, size, style), prepaid subscriptions (3/6/12 months upfront with discounts), gift subscriptions (give 3 months as gift), and subscription analytics (churn rate, LTV, MRR). Popular box types: beauty samples, food/snacks, hobby supplies, clothing, books, coffee, and pet supplies. Business model benefits: predictable recurring revenue, stronger customer relationships, and higher lifetime value ($300-600 vs $50-100 for one-time customers). Challenges: curation effort (selecting monthly items), inventory management (coordinating shipments), and churn management (keeping subscribers engaged). Successful strategies: surprise and delight (occasional bonus items), community building (exclusive Facebook group), and personalization (boxes customized to preferences). We handle technical complexity letting you focus on curation.

Can I run flash sales or limited-time offers?

Absolutely! Flash sales create urgency and drive purchases. Features include: countdown timers (sale ends in 3h 24m), automatic price scheduling (sale starts Friday 9am, ends Sunday midnight), quantity limits (only 50 available at sale price), customer limits (limit 2 per customer), early access (VIP customers get 24-hour head start), and sold out indicators (creates FOMO). Flash sale psychology: scarcity drives action, time pressure overrides hesitation, deal perception (50% off feels significant), and social sharing (customers tell friends). Implementation considerations: inventory planning (ensure sufficient stock), support preparation (increased customer service volume), and marketing coordination (email, social, ads simultaneously). Popular timings: weekend flash sales, holiday doorbusters, clearance events, or surprise sales. Successful flash sales can generate 10x normal daily revenue. Post-sale communication matters - thank participants, hint at next sale, offer consolation to those who missed out. This tactic works for most categories but particularly fashion, electronics, and consumables.

Can I create an affiliate program for my e-commerce store?

Yes! Affiliate programs expand reach through partner marketing. Program features: unique affiliate links (track who refers sales), commission structures (percentage or fixed amount per sale), affiliate dashboard (partners track performance), automatic payouts (monthly commission payments), marketing materials (banners, product images), coupon codes (affiliates get unique codes), and performance tiers (top affiliates earn higher commissions). Common commission rates: 10-15% for physical products, 20-30% for digital products, higher for high-ticket items. Recruiting affiliates: bloggers in your niche, Instagram influencers, YouTube reviewers, coupon sites, and content creators. Benefits: pay only for results (unlike ads with no guarantee), expanded audience reach, third-party credibility (affiliate recommendations), and scalable growth. Management considerations: reviewing applications (approve quality affiliates), monitoring for fraud (fake referrals), providing support (helping affiliates succeed), and analyzing performance (which affiliates drive sales). Affiliates often outperform paid ads because recommendations come from trusted sources.

How do you optimize e-commerce products for SEO?

E-commerce SEO is critical for organic traffic. Optimizations include: keyword-rich product titles (natural, descriptive), detailed descriptions (100-300 words with keywords), unique content (never copy manufacturer descriptions), structured data markup (product schema with price, availability, reviews), optimized images (descriptive filenames, alt text), category structure (logical hierarchy), URL structure (descriptive, not /product/12345), internal linking (related products, category links), user reviews (unique content generation), and performance optimization (fast loading). Product pages target long-tail keywords: "organic cotton baby onesies size 000" vs generic "baby clothes". Rich snippets show stars, price, availability in search results. Unique descriptions are mandatory - Google penalizes duplicate content, common when selling products multiple retailers carry. We write unique descriptions or use manufacturer content strategically modified. Category pages target broader terms; product pages target specific. Blog content supports product pages (linking to relevant products). E-commerce SEO compounds - adding 100 optimized products creates 100 new ranking opportunities.

How secure is my e-commerce store for customer data?

Security is paramount and built-in at every level. Security measures include: SSL/HTTPS encryption (all data transmitted securely), PCI compliance (payment card industry standards), secure payment processing (Stripe/Square handle card data, not stored on your server), fraud detection (unusual orders flagged), DDoS protection (protects against attacks), regular security updates (software always current), backup systems (daily backups, 30-day retention), and two-factor authentication (admin access protection). PCI compliance is complex; we achieve it through: never storing card details (tokenization via payment gateway), secure checkout process, encrypted connections, and regular security scans. Customer data protection includes: encrypted database storage, access controls (staff see only necessary info), and GDPR/privacy compliance (Australian Privacy Principles). We take security seriously because breaches devastate businesses: direct costs, reputation damage, legal liability, and customer trust loss. Customers trust sites displaying security badges, SSL padlock, and trusted payment logos.

Can you migrate my existing e-commerce store to Velosites?

Absolutely! We specialize in e-commerce migrations from any platform. Migration includes: product data (titles, descriptions, prices, images, variants), customer accounts (email, purchase history, addresses), order history (for customer reference), category structure, product reviews, discount codes, and URL redirects (maintaining SEO). Platforms we migrate from: Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Wix, Squarespace, Magento, and custom solutions. Process: export data from old platform, transform into compatible format, import to Velosites, verify accuracy, set up redirects, and go live with zero downtime. Complexity varies: simple stores (100 products, basic features) take 1-2 days; complex stores (10,000+ products, custom integrations) take 1-2 weeks. We handle technical details you focus on business continuity. Post-migration support ensures smooth transition. Many clients migrate to escape high fees, platform limitations, or poor performance. Migration cost ranges $500-5,000 depending on store complexity. Investment pays back quickly through lower ongoing costs.

How do you ensure e-commerce stores load quickly?

Performance directly impacts sales - 1 second delay decreases conversions by 7%. Our optimizations: image optimization (WebP format, lazy loading, responsive images), CDN delivery (global content delivery network), code optimization (minified CSS/JavaScript), database optimization (efficient queries), caching strategies (serve cached pages when possible), critical rendering path (load visible content first), reduced redirects (minimize HTTP redirects), and performance monitoring (continuous optimization). Target: 90+ PageSpeed scores, under 2-second load time. Large product catalogues require strategic optimization: infinite scroll instead of loading 1000 products, image compression (80% size reduction, minimal quality loss), and efficient search (fast product finding). Mobile optimization particularly critical - mobile users have variable connectivity. We implement progressive loading (show content incrementally), priority loading (hero images first), and performance budgets (maximum page size). Many e-commerce sites are slow (4-6 seconds); ours load in 1-2 seconds. This competitive advantage increases conversions and improves SEO (Google uses speed as ranking factor).

12web-applications Questions

What custom web applications can Velosites build?

Velosites builds custom web applications for businesses needing more than standard websites. Applications include: customer portals (clients login to access information), booking systems (appointments, reservations, class schedules), project management tools (track tasks, timelines, team collaboration), inventory management (track stock, orders, suppliers), CRM systems (manage customers, leads, sales pipelines), membership platforms (gated content, subscription access), learning management systems (online courses, student progress), workflow automation (automate repetitive business processes), data dashboards (visualise business metrics), and custom calculators (pricing, estimates, configurators). Web apps are ideal when spreadsheets become unmanageable or you need team collaboration. Unlike off-the-shelf software, custom apps match your exact workflow preventing force-fitting processes. Built with modern frameworks (React, Next.js), our web apps are fast, secure, and scalable. Pricing starts $199/month for simple apps, $499-999/month for complex applications. Development time ranges 2-8 weeks depending on complexity.

What's the difference between a web app and a website?

Websites primarily provide information (your services, contact details, blog posts) - they're read-only for visitors. Web applications enable interaction and functionality - users can create accounts, process data, complete tasks, and save information. Think of it this way: a restaurant website shows the menu and location (informational); a restaurant web app lets customers order food, track delivery, save favourite orders, and earn loyalty points (functional). Web apps require databases to store user data, authentication systems for login security, and complex logic for features. They're more expensive to build ($5,000-50,000 traditionally) but deliver significantly more value. Many businesses start with websites then add web app features as needs grow. Velosites makes web apps accessible through subscription pricing ($199-999/month) instead of massive upfront costs. Web apps can replace expensive software subscriptions with custom solutions perfectly matching your business.

How do you handle user authentication and security?

User authentication is implemented using industry-standard security practices. Features include: secure password hashing (passwords never stored in plain text, use bcrypt), password requirements (minimum length, complexity rules), password reset (secure email-based reset), session management (automatic logout after inactivity), two-factor authentication (SMS or authenticator app codes for sensitive apps), role-based access (admin, manager, user permissions), single sign-on (SSO with Google, Microsoft, or custom), account lockout (prevent brute-force attacks), and audit logging (track who accessed what). We implement OAuth 2.0 for third-party authentication ensuring users never share passwords with your app. Sessions use secure, HTTP-only cookies preventing XSS attacks. All authentication happens over HTTPS encrypting credentials in transit. For high-security applications, we can implement: biometric authentication, device verification, IP restrictions, or multi-factor authentication. Authentication systems comply with OWASP security guidelines and Australian Privacy Principles for data protection.

How do you design databases for web applications?

Database design is crucial for application performance and scalability. Our process includes: requirements analysis (understanding data needs), entity-relationship modelling (defining data structure), normalisation (eliminating redundancy), index optimisation (fast data retrieval), relationship mapping (how data connects), and query optimisation (efficient database operations). We use modern databases: PostgreSQL (relational, best for complex queries), MySQL (reliable, widely supported), MongoDB (NoSQL, flexible schema), or Firebase (real-time sync). Design considerations include: data types (text, numbers, dates, JSON), constraints (required fields, unique values), relationships (one-to-many, many-to-many), and security (who can access what). Proper design prevents future problems: slow queries, data inconsistencies, or difficulty adding features. We plan for growth: sharding for large datasets, replication for reliability, and caching for performance. Database backups occur automatically - daily full backups, hourly incremental backups, with 30-day retention.

Do you build APIs for web applications?

Yes! APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) enable applications to communicate. We build: RESTful APIs (standard HTTP endpoints), GraphQL APIs (flexible data querying), webhook systems (real-time event notifications), authentication APIs (secure access control), and third-party integrations (connect with other services). API use cases include: mobile app backends (iOS/Android apps connect to your API), third-party integrations (Xero, MYOB, CRM systems), automation (Zapier, Make.com workflows), partner access (securely share data with partners), and microservices (breaking large apps into smaller services). Our APIs include: comprehensive documentation (explaining every endpoint), rate limiting (prevent abuse), versioning (maintaining backwards compatibility), error handling (clear error messages), and monitoring (track API usage and performance). APIs enable building ecosystems around your application: mobile apps, partner integrations, workflow automation, and future expansion. Well-designed APIs become business assets enabling new revenue streams through partner integrations or API access fees.

Can you build Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)?

Absolutely! Progressive Web Apps combine website and mobile app benefits. PWA features include: offline functionality (works without internet), installable (adds to phone home screen like native app), push notifications (engage users even when app closed), fast loading (instant load times), app-like interface (full-screen, smooth animations), background sync (syncs data when connection restored), and responsive design (works on all devices). PWAs are particularly effective for: e-commerce (offline browsing, faster checkout), news sites (read articles offline), social platforms (post when offline, sync later), booking systems (work anywhere), and content platforms (offline video viewing). Benefits over native apps: no app store approval needed, updates deploy instantly, single codebase for all platforms, lower development cost, and discoverable via search engines. PWAs feel native but deploy as websites. They're perfect for businesses wanting app-like experiences without iOS/Android development costs. Modern browsers fully support PWA features; older browsers fall back to standard website functionality.

Can web apps have real-time data synchronisation?

Yes! Real-time sync enables instant updates across users and devices. Use cases include: collaborative tools (multiple users editing simultaneously), live dashboards (metrics update automatically), chat applications (messages appear instantly), booking systems (availability updates in real-time), delivery tracking (map updates as driver moves), stock/inventory (reflect purchases immediately), auction platforms (bids update live), and multiplayer features (interactive experiences). Technologies used: WebSockets (bi-directional communication), Firebase (real-time database), Pusher (managed real-time service), and Server-Sent Events (server pushes updates). Implementation considerations: conflict resolution (what happens when two users edit same data), connection management (handling disconnections gracefully), scalability (supporting many concurrent users), and battery impact (mobile devices). Real-time features transform user experience - updates appearing instantly feels magical compared to refreshing pages. Popular applications: Google Docs-style collaboration, Uber-style tracking, or Slack-style messaging. Real-time capabilities add complexity but deliver compelling experiences justifying the investment.

Can you build custom reporting and analytics dashboards?

Absolutely! Custom dashboards visualise business data for insights. Dashboard features include: interactive charts (line, bar, pie, area graphs), data filtering (date ranges, categories, custom filters), drill-down capabilities (click chart to see details), export functionality (PDF reports, Excel exports), scheduled reports (automatic daily/weekly emails), KPI widgets (key metrics prominently displayed), comparison views (this month vs last month), real-time updates (live data streaming), mobile responsive (dashboard on phone), and role-based views (different data for different users). Data sources we integrate: your database, Google Analytics, accounting software (Xero, MYOB), CRM systems (Salesforce, HubSpot), marketing platforms (Mailchimp, Facebook Ads), or e-commerce platforms (Shopify, WooCommerce). Dashboards answer critical questions: What are today's sales? Which products are bestsellers? Who are our top customers? What's our conversion rate? Custom dashboards consolidate data from multiple sources into single view. Business intelligence becomes accessible without expensive enterprise software. Executives make data-driven decisions with confidence.

Can web apps automate business workflows?

Yes! Workflow automation eliminates repetitive tasks. Automation examples include: automated invoicing (generate and email invoices when orders ship), lead routing (assign leads to sales reps automatically), approval workflows (purchase orders require manager approval), email campaigns (triggered by user actions), report generation (automatic weekly reports), data sync (keep multiple systems synchronised), notification systems (alert teams when events occur), scheduled tasks (monthly recurring actions), and conditional logic (if X happens, do Y). Benefits: time savings (hours daily), error reduction (computers don't forget steps), consistency (same process every time), scalability (handle growth without more staff), and cost reduction (automation cheaper than hiring). Common business processes we automate: customer onboarding, order fulfilment, inventory reordering, employee offboarding, contract renewals, maintenance scheduling, and performance reporting. Automation transforms businesses - what took 5 hours becomes 5 minutes. Staff shift from manual tasks to strategic work. ROI is typically 3-12 months. We document all automated workflows ensuring understanding and maintainability.

Can you build multi-tenant SaaS applications?

Absolutely! Multi-tenant SaaS serves multiple customers from single application instance. Architecture patterns include: shared database with tenant ID (cost-effective, simpler), separate databases per tenant (data isolation, more complex), or hybrid approaches (shared infrastructure, isolated data). Multi-tenant features: tenant provisioning (automated signup creates new tenant), data isolation (tenants never see each other's data), customisation per tenant (branding, settings, features), usage tracking (monitor per-tenant consumption), billing integration (Stripe subscription per tenant), and admin panels (manage all tenants). Popular SaaS applications: project management tools (Asana, Trello), accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks Online), CRM platforms (Salesforce, HubSpot), and helpdesk systems (Zendesk, Freshdesk). Benefits of multi-tenant: efficient resource usage, centralised updates (all tenants updated simultaneously), easier maintenance, and lower infrastructure costs. Challenges include: security (preventing data leaks between tenants), customisation (balancing flexibility with maintainability), and performance (ensuring one tenant doesn't impact others). Multi-tenant architecture enables SaaS business models with recurring revenue.

How do you test and ensure quality for web applications?

Comprehensive testing is built into our development process. Testing types include: unit testing (individual functions work correctly), integration testing (components work together), end-to-end testing (complete user journeys function), performance testing (load times, concurrent users), security testing (vulnerability scans, penetration testing), usability testing (real users provide feedback), cross-browser testing (works on Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge), mobile testing (responsive on all devices), and accessibility testing (works with screen readers). We use automated testing: Jest (JavaScript testing), Cypress (e-to-e testing), Lighthouse (performance audits), and OWASP ZAP (security scanning). Manual testing covers: edge cases, user flows, visual regression, and exploratory testing. Quality assurance process: development environment testing, staging environment review, user acceptance testing (UAT), then production deployment. We catch bugs before users encounter them. Test coverage aims for 80%+ of critical paths. Continuous integration runs tests automatically on every code change. Quality isn't accidental - it's systematically engineered.

How do you deploy and host web applications?

Web apps are deployed to enterprise-grade hosting infrastructure. Deployment options include: cloud hosting (AWS, Google Cloud, Azure), managed platforms (Vercel, Netlify, Heroku), or Australian data centres (for data sovereignty). Our deployment process: code repository (GitHub/GitLab), automated testing (CI/CD pipeline), staging environment (test before production), zero-downtime deployment (users never see interruption), automatic rollback (if issues detected), and monitoring (uptime, performance, errors). Infrastructure includes: load balancers (distribute traffic), auto-scaling (handle traffic spikes), database replication (redundancy), CDN (fast global delivery), SSL certificates (security), automated backups (daily with 30-day retention), and DDoS protection. For mission-critical apps: multi-region deployment (if one region fails, others continue), database clustering (high availability), and disaster recovery plans. Monitoring alerts our team immediately if issues arise. Uptime targets: 99.9% for standard apps, 99.99% for critical systems. Australian businesses can require data stored in Australia - we accommodate this. Hosting is included in subscription pricing - no separate hosting bills.

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