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Cookies used on the site are categorized and below you can read about each category and allow or deny some or all of them. When categories than have been previously allowed are disabled, all cookies assigned to that category will be removed from your browser. Additionally you can see a list of cookies assigned to each category and detailed information in the cookie declaration.
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Name | Hostname | Vendor | Expiry |
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cookiehub | .bigfork.co.uk | CookieHub | 365 days |
Used by CookieHub to store information about whether visitors have given or declined the use of cookie categories used on the site. | |||
PHPSESSID | www.bigfork.co.uk | Session | |
Cookie generated by applications based on the PHP language. This is a general purpose identifier used to maintain user session variables. It is normally a random generated number, how it is used can be specific to the site, but a good example is maintaining a logged-in status for a user between pages. | |||
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The __cf_bm cookie supports Cloudflare Bot Management by managing incoming traffic that matches criteria associated with bots. The cookie does not collect any personal data, and any information collected is subject to one-way encryption. | |||
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lidc | .linkedin.com | LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company | 1 day |
Used by LinkedIn for routing. | |||
li_gc | .linkedin.com | LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company | 180 days |
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vuid | .vimeo.com | 400 days | |
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Name | Hostname | Vendor | Expiry |
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_ga_ | .bigfork.co.uk | 400 days | |
Contains a unique identifier used by Google Analytics 4 to determine that two distinct hits belong to the same user across browsing sessions. | |||
_ga | .bigfork.co.uk | 400 days | |
Contains a unique identifier used by Google Analytics to determine that two distinct hits belong to the same user across browsing sessions. | |||
bcookie | .linkedin.com | LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company | 365 days |
This is a Microsoft MSN 1st party cookie for sharing the content of the website via social media. | |||
CLID | www.clarity.ms | Microsoft | 365 days |
Identifies the first-time Clarity saw this user on any site using Clarity. | |||
_clck | .bigfork.co.uk | Microsoft | 365 days |
Persists the Clarity User ID and preferences, unique to that site, on the browser. This ensures that behavior in subsequent visits to the same site will be attributed to the same user ID. | |||
MUID | .bing.com | Microsoft | 390 days |
Microsoft User Identifier tracking cookie used by Bing Ads. It can be set by embedded microsoft scripts. Widely believed to sync across many different Microsoft domains, allowing user tracking. | |||
MR | .c.bing.com | Microsoft | 7 days |
Used by Microsoft Clarity to indicate whether to refresh MUID. | |||
SM | .c.clarity.ms | Microsoft | Session |
This cookie is installed by Clarity. The cookie is used to store non-personally identifiable information. The cookie is used in synchronizing the MUID (Microsoft unique user ID) across Microsoft domains. | |||
MUID | .clarity.ms | Microsoft | 390 days |
Microsoft User Identifier tracking cookie used by Bing Ads. It can be set by embedded microsoft scripts. Widely believed to sync across many different Microsoft domains, allowing user tracking. | |||
MR | .c.clarity.ms | Microsoft | 7 days |
Used by Microsoft Clarity to indicate whether to refresh MUID. | |||
_clsk | .bigfork.co.uk | Microsoft | 1 day |
Connects multiple page views by a user into a single Clarity session recording. |
Marketing cookies
Marketing cookies are used to track visitors across websites to allow publishers to display relevant and engaging advertisements. By enabling marketing cookies, you grant permission for personalized advertising across various platforms.
Name | Hostname | Vendor | Expiry |
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_fbp | .bigfork.co.uk | Meta Platforms | 90 days |
Facebook Pixel advertising first-party cookie. Used by Facebook to track visits across websites to deliver a series of advertisement products such as real time bidding from third party advertisers. | |||
SRM_B | .c.bing.com | Microsoft | 390 days |
This cookie is installed by Microsoft Bing. Identifies unique web browsers visiting Microsoft sites. | |||
ANONCHK | .c.clarity.ms | Microsoft | 1 hour |
Used to store session ID for a users session to ensure that clicks from adverts on the Bing search engine are verified for reporting purposes and for personalisation | |||
AnalyticsSyncHistory | .linkedin.com | LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company | 30 days |
Used by LinkedIn to store information about the time a sync with the lms_analytics cookie took place for users in the Designated Countries | |||
UserMatchHistory | .linkedin.com | LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company | 30 days |
Contains a unique identifier used by LinkedIn to determine that two distinct hits belong to the same user across browsing sessions. | |||
bscookie | .www.linkedin.com | LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company | 365 days |
Used by the social networking service, LinkedIn, for tracking the use of embedded services. |
Amy Culham
Digital Marketing Manager
16/07/2024
Choosing the best web design and development agency for you, can feel like a daunting task, given the vast number of options available.
However, finding the right agency can be a significant advantage for your business. So, how do you navigate this digital maze and select the ideal web design company to meet your specific needs? Let's cut through the noise and complexity.
They work with you to design and develop your website project. Whether it's a completely new website or improving what you have, they should have the expertise to help you at every stage of the web design process.
It's not just design they should offer but planning, analytical skills and technical expertise in website development.
Here are 13 tips and questions to help you choose the right fit for your website project.
Start by understanding what your business requires from the web design company. Do you require a complete website overhaul, or are you looking to fine-tune your existing site? Does your brand call for a bold and creative appeal, or do you lean towards a minimalist, clean-cut design? Your website goals should be aligned with your business objectives. Typical website goals include:
Our detailed article, "How to set goals for your website" is a good place to start.
Look for a web design company with a strong portfolio of past projects. Take the time to browse through their work - examine the style, quality, and any recurring themes to see how well they align with your business. However, remember that aesthetics alone are not enough. Dig deeper into their project outcomes and deliverables. A visually appealing website means little without the performance to back it up.
Invest time in reviewing client testimonials and feedback as they provide valuable insights into a web design company's work quality and level of service. The experiences of previous clients can mirror what you might expect from the company in the future. Look for reviews on various platforms and social media channels to gauge the agency's commitment to client success and their track record.
Having a good working relationship and chemistry is vital. Make sure you get to know the team you would be working with. Arrange a teams call or a face to face meeting to talk through what they can offer and their understanding of your brief. This will help you decide if they're people you can work with.
You want to make sure they have the right expertise to deliver on your website project. Do they know about SEO and lead generation experience if your website needs to produce sales and leads? Have they got specific experience of designing websites for your industry? For example, our team have specific expertise in B2B websites which clients value.
Most websites are based on a CMS, which allows you to manage your website's content inhouse. If you have a preferred CMS such as Wordpress or Hubspot then you'll want to make sure prospective web companies have proven experience in these. You may not know what CMS you need or how to choose one. There are many other good ones available, such as Silverstripe and Statamic. Ask the agency which one they would recommend and ask for a demo.
Ask the agency about their process for creating websites and how they involve the client in that process. Their process needs to align with your website goals. For example, if you need a B2B website that generates leads, how does their process take this into account. An effective process will take into account planning, design, dev and testing, so ask how they approach all of these.
Look for a company that prioritises transparent and uncomplicated communication. Remember, you're not just buying a product; you're forming a partnership with a team dedicated to enhancing your business performance. Avoid agencies that hide behind technical jargon and seek out those who genuinely listen, understand your vision, and communicate effectively.
While costs are a crucial consideration, don't let price be the sole deciding factor. What matters most is getting the best value for your investment. It's possible that a higher-priced web design company can deliver a superior return on investment by providing a robust, high-performing website that far outweighs a cheaper alternative. Do your research and find out what the range websites costs are before you approach web agencies.
Keep in mind that web design and development is an ongoing process that requires future support. Look for a company that demonstrates a commitment to continued maintenance, readily offering troubleshooting when needed, and adapting your website to keep up with your evolving business landscape.
To start off with ask people you trust in your network what companies they would recommend and who their contacts are. Secondly, find existing websites that meet your brief and what web design firm created them.
LinkedIn is the best social media channel for business and it's well worth searching for prospective agencies. Finally you can also search reputable business directories such as Clutch to find a list of prospects.
This will depend on how you want to work with your web agency. If you prefer face to face meetings then choose a local company that has the right experience for you. Online meetings are the norm these days, so most project meetings can be carried out on Teams, Zoom etc.. Most web agencies are happy to do this and may just want a face to face meeting to start the project off.
Make sure you let the web design company know exactly what you are looking for by sending them a website design brief. A brief is also a good starting point for you to discuss your new website with the company and see how they work and what ideas they have.
In conclusion, take your time to choose the right web design agency as it will have a significant impact on your business's online presence. Focus on choosing a web agency that understands your brand, can deliver on your goals, and is dedicated to your success. Making a conscious and informed decision will lead to a successful partnership and a stronger online presence for your business.
This article was updated on , filed under website design.
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