FAQ
Quick answers, without the jargon wall.
If you are unsure where to start, that is normal. These answers are here to help you make a better tech decision, whether or not you hire me.
Ownership
Do I own my website?
Yes, whenever the project is built in a way that allows it. Ownership is one of the main reasons Spyteware Studio exists. You should have access, documentation, and a clear understanding of where your website lives and how it is maintained.
What is vendor lock-in?
Vendor lock-in means it is unusually hard, expensive, or confusing to leave a platform or provider. Sometimes it is technical. Sometimes it is about missing access, unclear billing, hidden dependencies, or no documentation.
What should a developer hand over after launch?
At minimum: account and access notes, hosting and domain details, source or export details when applicable, maintenance steps, form and analytics notes, and clear support expectations.
Buyer protection
What should I ask before hiring a web developer?
Ask what you will own, where the site will live, what ongoing costs exist, who controls the accounts, how updates happen, what happens if you leave, and what documentation you receive.
How do I know if I need a rebuild?
You may not. Sometimes a refresh, cleanup, or platform adjustment is enough. A health check can help separate urgent problems from annoyances and decide whether a rebuild is worth it.
Can you review a quote from another provider?
Often, yes. I can help you understand what the quote includes, what questions to ask, and whether the scope seems aligned with your goals. The point is clarity, not drama.
Will you call out my previous developer?
No. I am not interested in public drama or blame. I am interested in helping you understand what you have, what is not working, and what can be done next.
Platforms
Do you only build custom-coded sites?
No. I like open, maintainable tools, but the right tool depends on the job. Sometimes a static site is best. Sometimes WordPress is reasonable. Sometimes a no-code builder is enough.
Is Squarespace, Wix, or WordPress bad?
Not automatically. A simpler platform can be the right choice if you can maintain it, understand the costs, and are comfortable with the tradeoffs. I will recommend what fits your needs, not what inflates the invoice.
Can you fix a site someone else built?
Often, yes. I can review what exists, identify what is broken or risky, and recommend whether to repair, simplify, migrate, or rebuild.
Pricing
Do you really do sliding scale?
Yes. Sliding scale is about matching cost to capacity. We will choose a tier and scope that stays sustainable.
Can you tell me a price before we talk?
I can give ranges, but exact pricing depends on scope. A short intake gets you a clearer estimate and timeline.
Process
What if I am not technical?
That is completely fine. You do not need to know the right words. You can describe the problem in normal human language, and I will help translate that into a plan.
How fast can we launch?
It depends on scope and content readiness. Small sites can move quickly; bigger work gets a timeline before we begin.
How do revisions work?
We review in small steps so changes are easier to make. You will see working drafts before anything goes live.
Digital safety
Do you work with LGBTQ+ clients?
Yes, absolutely. Spyteware Studio is welcoming to LGBTQ+ people, marginalized communities, small businesses, creators, and anyone who wants practical, respectful tech support.
Can you help if we are dealing with harassment or risk?
Yes. I focus on practical risk reduction: safer accounts, safer communications, and incident readiness that fits small teams.
Still not sure?
Tell me what you are trying to accomplish and what constraints you are working under. I will recommend a path that fits your capacity.