Hello. This is Lake and Moon Design.
I’ll be honest. Writing this article is a little frustrating.
As someone who builds websites day in and day out right here in Shiga, it takes quite a bit of courage to openly praise a competitor and say, “That’s really good.” But it’s by no means a negative feeling. It’s a sense of regret that stems from respect—a feeling I can only have because we’re all working in the same region, going through the same process of trial and error.
To be honest, there’s no single “right answer” in the field of website design. That’s exactly why every designer continues to refine their own unique approach, and every time I see that, it makes me sit up straight and think, “We can’t let them outdo us.”It means there are definitely people in Shiga who, even without realizing it, are pushing us to improve. In this post, I’d like to honestly introduce five companies—including our own—that I truly admire.
Please forgive me if this comes across as a bit of self-promotion. That said, we do have several strengths we can confidently highlight. If you’re considering website development in Shiga, I’d be delighted if you’d add us to your list of options alongside these five companies.
This article is based on information current as of July 2026. Each company’s pricing, structure, and services are subject to change, so please check their official websites for the latest information. Additionally, this article was compiled by Lake and Moon Design from our own perspective, and we have not received any listing fees or compensation from the featured companies.
Key Points to Consider When Choosing a Website Design Company in Shiga
Before introducing these five companies, let’s first outline the key criteria you should use to compare web design agencies.
First, what are your options for who to hire?
Although we use the general term “web design agency,” there are actually several options to choose from. Since each has different areas of expertise and is suited for different situations, let’s first get a clear picture of the overall landscape.
Service Providers | Web Design Agency | Advertising Agencies | Freelancers | Crowdsourcing | No-code services |
Price Range | Medium to High | Tends to be high | Varies widely depending on skill level and expertise | Low prices but highly variable | Mainly a few thousand yen per month and up |
Quality Trends | They have a production system in place, so work tends to meet a consistent standard | Tends to prioritize advertising effectiveness and strategy over design | Quality is directly proportional to the individual’s experience | Quality is often heavily influenced by the client’s ability to define requirements | Work is typically confined to the scope of templates |
Delivery Schedule Trends | Because there is an established system in place, it’s relatively easy to plan ahead | Since multiple departments are involved, the verification process tends to take time | In some cases, staff handle this work alongside their primary duties, so response times vary by individual | There are significant differences depending on the client, making it difficult to predict | Publication itself is quick, with the fastest turnaround being “same day” |
Proposal and Strategic Capabilities | You can generally expect proposals starting from the planning stage | They excel at strategic proposals from an advertising and marketing perspective | Depends on the individual account manager’s experience and areas of expertise | Tends to depend heavily on how well the client can articulate their requirements | Proposals are generally not provided; the assumption is that you will put together the plan yourself |
Communication | Although a representative acts as an intermediary, it is easy to consult with them | A representative often acts as a liaison between sales and production | Since we can communicate directly, there are fewer misunderstandings | While direct communication is possible, the level of engagement varies depending on the person | Self-resolution is generally expected |
Post-launch support | Maintenance and update support are available depending on the plan | After production, resources tend to be allocated to ad management | Support is highly dependent on the availability of the assigned staff member | Relationships often end after a single project | Since you can update the site yourself, your reliance on external support is low |
Ideal for | Small and medium-sized businesses and retail stores seeking consistent proposal capabilities | Companies that want to integrate their campaigns with advertising placements | Small- to medium-sized businesses with fairly well-defined requirements | Those who want to keep initial costs as low as possible | Those who prioritize speed and want to get a prototype up and running first |
Each option has its pros and cons, and the reality of this industry is that it cannot be judged simply by whether something is “cheap” or “expensive.”Freelancers’ price ranges vary widely, and it’s not uncommon for their fees to match or even exceed those of production companies, depending on their expertise and track record. Conversely, with crowdsourcing platforms, the quality of the final product can vary significantly depending on how clearly the client defines their requirements. We recommend comparing not only price but also the scope of services and organizational structure.
The five companies introduced here all fall under the “production company” category in this table. For small and medium-sized businesses and retail stores that cannot afford the costs of an advertising agency but want more stable proposal capabilities and quality than freelancers or no-code services offer, these companies are in an ideal position to meet their needs.
Service Areas and Locations
While an increasing number of companies operate entirely online, having an office within Shiga Prefecture provides the reassurance of being able to meet in person for discussions. It’s especially a good idea to check the location of their offices—such as in Otsu, Kusatsu, Moriyama, or Koka—if you want them to see the actual atmosphere of your store or office, or if you prioritize detailed face-to-face coordination.
Track Record and Areas of Expertise
Even if a company advertises “general website development,” it likely specializes in certain industries. It’s important to check in advance whether they have a track record in sectors similar to your own, such as restaurants, manufacturing, professional services, or medical institutions. If they have experience in a related industry, you’re more likely to receive proposals that closely align with your expectations.
Supported CMS (WordPress, microCMS, etc.)
The most suitable CMS depends on who will be updating the site after launch and how frequently. If you plan to update the site frequently on your own, WordPress is a good choice; if updates are infrequent but you prioritize page load speed and security, a lightweight CMS like microCMS is recommended. The key is to strike a balance between ease of updating and operational costs. A rough comparison of their features is as follows.
Comparison Criteria | WordPress | microCMS |
Architecture | Server-upload type | API-based (headless) |
System Cost | Free (open source) | Free plan available (with limited features) |
Article Update Time | Instant | There may be a delay of a few minutes |
Security Measures | Requires regular security measures, such as using plugins | Due to its structure, it has few vulnerabilities that are prone to being targeted |
Page Load Speed Trends | Depends on the number of plugins and optimization | Tends to be relatively fast |
Rather than saying one is inherently superior, it’s more accurate to recognize that suitability depends on how much effort you can devote to update frequency, budget, and security management.
SEO Support
Even if a service is advertised as “SEO-optimized,” the scope of support varies widely by company. Is it limited to optimizing the site’s internal structure, or does it include content management after launch? Confirming the scope of support before signing a contract can help prevent misunderstandings after the site goes live.
Post-Launch Support
Your relationship with the web design company continues even after the site goes live. Whether you’ll be charged additional fees each time you request bug fixes or minor revisions, or whether these are included in a monthly maintenance contract, varies significantly by company. Since you’ll likely be working with them long-term, we recommend comparing their support systems as well.
Market Rates for Website Development
Since many of the five companies featured here list their pricing as “upon request,” we’ve compiled a general overview of typical price ranges to help you make an informed decision. While these are merely guidelines, prices generally fall within the following ranges based on page structure.
Site Size | Estimated Number of Pages | Estimated Price Range |
LP (Landing Page) | 1 page | Approximately 200,000 to 500,000 yen |
Small-scale website | 5–10 pages | Approximately 400,000 to 1,500,000 yen |
Medium-sized websites (including CMS implementation) | 10 or more pages | Approximately 1,000,000 to 2,500,000 yen |
The price difference depends not only on the number of pages but also on whether research and photography are required, whether a CMS is implemented, and whether a post-launch maintenance contract is included. When comparing quotes, we recommend checking not only the total amount but also what is included in that price.
The Process from Request to Launch
If this is your first time commissioning a website, understanding the general process will make it easier to visualize the content of quotes and meetings. Generally, the process proceeds in the following order:
- Consultation and Requirement Definition: We align on the website’s purpose, target audience, number of pages needed, and budget.
- Quote and Contract: A quote is provided based on the requirements, and if you agree to the terms, you proceed to sign the contract.
- Design: We determine the overall tone and layout of the site.
- Coding and Implementation: Based on the design, we build the site so it functions properly.
- Review and Revisions: We review the completed site and make adjustments to the text and fine details.
- Launch: We configure the server and domain settings and launch the website.
- Post-Launch Maintenance: Ongoing tasks, such as updates and monitoring traffic, will continue after the site goes live.
Although the terminology and division of processes may vary slightly depending on the production company, the overall workflow is generally similar across the board. It’s helpful to confirm in advance how long the entire process will take to make scheduling easier.
Search by Area: Website Design Companies in Shiga
For those who’d like to “consult directly with a local agency,” we’ve organized the five companies featured here by their service areas.
- For those looking for a website design company in Moriyama City: ① YUKiYURi WEB, ② Shiga to Sekai
- For those looking for a website design company in Otsu City: ③ Lake and Moon Design, ④ Studio Beetle
- For those looking for a web design company in Kusatsu City: ④ Studio Beetle
- For those looking for a web design company in Koka City: ② Shiga to Sekai
- For requests from throughout Shiga Prefecture or outside the prefecture: ③ Lake and Moon Design, ⑤ Sonogoku Create
Even though they’re all in “Shiga,” the business districts and customer demographics differ by area in Otsu, Kusatsu, Moriyama, and Koka. If you’d like to meet in person for a consultation, one approach is to start by considering companies based in your nearest area.
Quick Reference Guide by Objective
Before diving into detailed introductions of each of the five companies, we’ve compiled a simple quick reference chart organized by objective so you can find the right fit based on what matters most to you.
- Prioritize page load speed and technical refinement → ①YUKiYURi WEB
- Want to entrust your entire online presence—from social media to recruitment—to a single provider? → ② Shiga to Sekai
- Want to explore the differences between WordPress and microCMS and start with a free consultation → ③ Lake and Moon Design
- Want to discuss options that include system development and data analysis → ④ Studio Beetle
- If you prioritize code quality and post-launch maintenance → ⑤ Sonogokuriet
Below, we’ll provide a detailed introduction to each of these companies.
① “Competing head-on through technical expertise” YUKiYURi WEB (Moriyama City)

Features of YUKiYURi WEB
- Based in Moriyama City, with operations centered in the Kansai region
- WordPress-based web development
- Strong commitment to technical aspects, such as AMP support
- Also runs a blog on programming education for children
YUKiYURi WEB’s Weak Points
With their motto of “carefully, one by one,” their approach—prioritizing quality over quantity, including in terms of scale—is very similar to ours. Yet, the fact that they’ve gone the extra mile to implement technical features like AMP compliance honestly makes me feel a little anxious.
Detailed Overview of YUKiYURi WEB
This is the kind of production company that quietly builds trust through technical integrity rather than flashy marketing. While centered on WordPress development, they meticulously refine everything from page load speeds to site architecture. As a fellow “small-scale creator,” I’m truly impressed by this steady, methodical approach.
What’s particularly impressive is that they run a separate blog dedicated to programming education for children. The fact that they can consistently publish content that doesn’t directly lead to immediate business opportunities is proof that they have both the flexibility and conviction in their core business. This stance of never compromising on either technical expertise or attention to detail stands out even more among smaller-scale creators.
They also seem to put a lot of effort into minimizing WordPress operating costs, and the fact that they design with post-launch “ease of maintenance” in mind is a subtly important point for clients.When commissioning a website, many people tend to focus on the visual design, but what you’ll actually be dealing with over the long term is “ease of management after launch.” The fact that they can incorporate this perspective into their proposals from the outset is a strength backed by experience.
As a side note regarding AMP support, this is a technology designed to significantly improve page load speeds on mobile devices. In recent years, page load speed has become increasingly important in Google’s ranking criteria, and there are very few web design companies in Shiga that consistently implement these kinds of meticulous technical improvements.
YUKiYURi WEB is recommended for:
Those in the Kansai region who prioritize technical quality, such as page load speed and AMP support. We believe we’re a good fit for businesses that value solid, well-crafted websites over flashy design.
Items | Content |
URL | |
Price | Please inquire |
Portfolio | Numerous (not disclosed) |
Types of Websites Supported | Corporate websites, etc. |
Industries We Specialize In | Not disclosed |
SEO Services | Available |
Supported CMS | WordPress |
Service Area | Primarily the Kansai region |
Post-Production Support | Available (planned) |
YUKiYURi WEB’s Major Portfolio Examples
② “The Versatility to Handle All Aspects of Digital Communication” Shigato Sekai (Koka City, Moriyama City)

Features of Shigato Sekai
- Two offices in Koka and Moriyama, with a team of approximately 16 people
- Offers a wide range of services, from web development to social media, YouTube, and recruitment support
- Branding that emphasizes character, with the motto: “It’s all about the results. We’ve got great people.”
- Specializes in building the “profit-generating capacity” of local small and medium-sized enterprises
Shiga to Sekai’s Areas for Improvement
To be honest, I’m envious of how they embody the role of a “jack-of-all-trades for local small and medium-sized businesses” rather than just a web design company. Their versatility—being able to take on everything as a team, including social media management, YouTube, and recruitment support, areas we haven’t ventured into yet—is truly impressive.
A Detailed Look at Shigato Sekai
It’s a warm, down-to-earth team that values authenticity. Rather than a stiff corporate profile, their approach of letting team members’ personalities shine through makes perfect sense as a way to build trust rooted in the community. The breadth of services they can provide under one roof is a strength that a small team like ours simply doesn’t have.
With a team of about 16 people, they’re by no means a small production company in Shiga. The fact that they can position their “warm, friendly nature” as a selling point while maintaining such a size is proof that their recruitment and organizational development processes are working effectively.Since they handle everything—not just the website, but also social media, YouTube, and recruitment sites—I think they’re a reassuring partner for businesses that want to “consult with a single point of contact for all their communications.”
Given that they handle projects ranging from manufacturing and construction to government-related work, they give the impression of being deeply involved in the local economy itself, rather than being just another “trendy design firm.”In reality, the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises in rural areas are often not about “wanting a cool website,” but rather “how to continue sharing information despite a shortage of staff.” A system capable of addressing these practical concerns on its own cannot be sustained without a certain scale.
Their emphasis on monthly, hands-on support is also worth noting. It’s often said in the web design industry that the real work begins after a site goes live, but in my experience, few companies have actually institutionalized this as a sustainable, ongoing process.
Shiga to Sekai is recommended for:
Business owners who want to consult on their “entire communication strategy”—encompassing not just their website, but also social media and recruitment. It seems particularly well-suited for industries rooted in the local community, such as manufacturing and construction.
URL | |
Pricing | Please inquire |
Track Record | Manufacturing, Retail, Construction, Education, etc. |
Types of Sites Supported | Corporate, E-commerce, Recruitment, Media |
Industries We Specialize In | Manufacturing, Retail, Construction, Education, Government |
SEO Services | Available |
Supported CMS | Not disclosed |
Service Areas | Primarily Shiga; some nationwide |
Post-Launch Support | Available (monthly ongoing support) |
Major Projects by Shiga to Sekai
③ “Creating a Casual Entry Point with Free Tools” Lake and Moon Design (Shiga Prefecture)

Features of Lake and Moon Design
- Supports both WordPress and microCMS; proposals tailored to your goals
- In-house development of a free basic SEO diagnostic tool and color scheme generator
- Pricing is based on a three-tier plan system tailored to specific goals; rates are transparent, inclusive of tax and all requirements
- We don’t just “build and walk away”—we welcome consultations even after launch
Lake and Moon Design’s “Frustrating” Points (or Rather, Our Unique Selling Points)
Since this is our own company, it’s not really something to be frustrated about… but if I had to name one thing, it’s that we haven’t yet caught up to the track records of companies like ①, ②, ④, and ⑤, which have been building their reputations for years. Even so, I believe our unique strength—and something no one else is doing right now—is that we create and release our own “free-to-use tools.”
Detailed Explanation of Lake and Moon Design
Our signature approach is to recommend either WordPress or microCMS based on your update frequency and budget. We suggest WordPress for those who want to update their site frequently themselves, and microCMS for those who prioritize page load speed and ease of management—in other words, we let you choose based on your operational style, not ours.
We’ve also developed and released our own tools, such as an SEO checker that provides a free diagnosis of a website’s current status, and a tool that analyzes a site’s color scheme to suggest new color schemes. Providing a resource that even those who are “still on the fence—not sure if they’ll commission us yet, but just want to know the current state of their site” can use freely is an initiative unique to us among the five companies featured here.
Regarding our pricing structure, we’ve organized it into three plans based on specific objectives and present them in a way that includes costs that are prone to incurring additional fees upfront. Since the web design industry is often criticized for being one where “you don’t know the total cost until you get a quote,” our goal is to help clients get a rough sense of their budget before they even place an order.
We want to be a resource people can feel free to consult with, even if they’re still at the stage of wondering, “I don’t know where to turn.” This article itself was born from that very sentiment. Our honest goal with this article is to introduce other design firms working hard in the same region of Shiga—and, as a result, to help people get to know our company as well.
Lake and Moon Design is recommended for people like this
If you’re unsure whether WordPress or microCMS is right for you, or if you’d like to get a free assessment of your site’s current status before deciding on a project, we recommend trying the diagnostic tools mentioned above.
URL | |
Pricing | Starting at 440,000 yen (3 plans based on project size) |
Portfolio | Food & Beverage, Tourism, Temples & Shrines, E-commerce, Recruitment, etc. |
Types of Websites Supported | Corporate, e-commerce, recruitment, landing pages |
Industries We Specialize In | Food & Beverage, Tourism, Community Revitalization |
SEO Services | Available (in-house developed free diagnostic tool) |
Supported CMS | WordPress, microCMS, BASE, Shopify |
Service Areas | Focused on Shiga; Nationwide Service Available |
Post-Launch Support | Available |
Key Projects by Lake and Moon Design
④ “A Long-Established Business, Yet the Most Modern”: Web Design Office Studio Beetle (Otsu City, Kusatsu City)

URL: https://www.studiobeatle.com/
Features of Studio Beetle
- Two locations in Otsu and Kusatsu; founded in 2005 with 20 years of experience
- Handles everything from web design to system development
- Quick to adapt to technological trends, such as the use of GA4 and generative AI
- Proven track record across a wide range of industries, including law firms, insurance, and education
Studio Beetle’s Weak Points
To be honest, we simply can’t match the weight of their 20-year history. Moreover, they don’t rest on their laurels—they’ve actively embraced new technologies, such as GA4 analysis using generative AI. The fact that they’re “a long-established firm that doesn’t feel outdated” is what frustrates us the most.
Detailed Overview of Studio Beetle
They’re known for their broad technical capabilities, ranging from website development to system development using PHP frameworks. They’re not just a “company that designs visuals”; they can build the back-end infrastructure for business systems as well, so the scope of work they can handle is inherently wide. I think it’s a major strength that clients can consult with them—as an extension of their website development—about things like, “Actually, could you help us improve operational efficiency in this area?”
Having been founded in 2005, we’re among the longest-standing players in Shiga’s web design industry.The depth of their experience—gained over 20 years—and their ability to offer well-thought-out proposals cannot be replicated overnight. At the same time, they keep a close eye on current technological trends, such as analyzing GA4 data with generative AI. There’s absolutely no sense of “clinging to old ways” that’s often associated with long-established firms; rather, their flexible approach to adopting new technologies is truly impressive.
Another defining feature is their strong track record in conservative industries such as law firms and insurance, which suggests they are well-suited to sectors where reliability is paramount. In these industries, “accuracy” and “long-term, stable operation” tend to take precedence over design preferences, and their 20-year track record itself likely plays a significant role in lending credibility to their proposals.
Their operation with two offices also makes perfect sense given the regional characteristics of Shiga. The fact that they’ve established a system that makes it easy to consult with them from either Otsu or Kusatsu feels like a foundation built precisely because they’ve been deeply rooted in the community and have maintained their business for so long.
Studio Beetle is recommended for:
Those who wish to consult not only on website development but also on business system development and data analysis. I believe it is particularly well-suited for industries where trust is paramount, such as law, insurance, and education.
URL | |
Pricing | Please inquire |
Portfolio | 20 years of experience in law, insurance, education, and more |
Types of Websites Supported | Corporate, e-commerce, recruitment, landing pages, system development |
Industries We Specialize In | Law, Insurance, Education |
SEO Optimization | Available (including page speed optimization) |
Supported CMS | WordPress |
Service Area | Primarily Shiga Prefecture |
Post-Launch Support | Available (Maintenance Support) |
Studio Beetle’s Major Portfolio Examples
⑤ “A Commitment to Code You’d Never Expect from an Individual” – Sonogo Create (Shiga Prefecture)

URL: https://sonogo-create.jp/
Features of Sonogo Create
- Nationwide Service Despite Being a Sole Proprietorship
- WordPress-centered development
- Commitment to W3C-compliant code quality
- A philosophy focused on operation, believing that “the real work begins after launch”
What Frustrates Me About Sonogo Create
It’s impressive—and a bit frustrating—just how deeply they prioritize code quality, to the point where you wouldn’t believe it’s a one-person operation. As a fellow professional, I genuinely respect their commitment to not only visual design but also the accuracy of their markup.
Detailed Analysis of Sonogocreate
They clearly champion the philosophy that “it’s not over once it’s built—we stay by your side through post-launch operations,” which aligns with the values we hold dear. The moment a website goes live isn’t the finish line; that’s when the real journey begins. Surprisingly few creators share this perspective.
Their commitment to W3C-compliant code is another key point that cannot be overlooked. While anyone can judge the visual appeal of a design, the correctness of the markup is difficult to discern without expert knowledge—it’s what you might call a “subtle but crucial quality.” As a fellow professional, I have genuine respect for their dedication to upholding this standard, even as a sole proprietor.
Another defining characteristic is their agility in serving clients nationwide while based in Shiga; this approach to work—unbound by geographical constraints—serves as a valuable model for the future of solo entrepreneurship. Their track record spans various industries, from dental clinics to retail stores, demonstrating that they carefully tailor their approach to each project rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all template.
A commitment to code quality ultimately has a positive impact on page load speed and accessibility. I believe that developers who are willing to invest properly in aspects that can’t be measured by flashiness are the ones who can build “robust websites” that stand the test of time.
Sonogokuriate is recommended for people like this
Those looking for a partner they can consult with in depth—not just about the visual design, but also about code quality and post-launch maintenance. Since they serve clients nationwide, they’re also recommended for those outside Shiga Prefecture.
URL | |
Pricing | Please inquire |
Portfolio | Dentistry, Retail, etc. |
Types of Websites Supported | Corporate, Media, Landing Pages |
Industries We Specialize In | Not disclosed (broad range of experience) |
SEO Optimization | Available (W3C-compliant code) |
Supported CMS | WordPress |
Service Area | Based in Shiga; Serving Clients Nationwide |
Post-Launch Support | Available (Our philosophy emphasizes ongoing management) |
Sonogokurite's Key Portfolio Examples
Checklist to Prepare Before Your Consultation
Before consulting with a production company, briefly summarizing the following points—even in a simple way—will help ensure your initial meeting goes smoothly.
- Approximate budget (even just a maximum amount is fine)
- Desired number of pages and general structure
- Websites or design concepts you’d like to use as references
- Availability of materials such as photos and text you’d like to include
- Desired launch date and schedule
- Whether you’d like to update the site yourselves after it goes live
It’s okay if not everything is clear yet. Even if some details are still vague, feel free to start our consultation by simply sharing your current situation.
For Those Considering a Website Redesign in Shiga Prefecture
So far, we’ve been discussing the process as if we were building a brand-new website from scratch, but in reality, we’ve found that we receive far more inquiries about “how to improve an existing site” than about “building a new one.” For those who already have a website, this section will be a bit longer, but I’d like to share some perspectives unique to website redesigns.
New website development and redesigns require completely different approaches
Building a new website involves figuring out “how to construct it from scratch.” Redesign, on the other hand, involves determining “what to keep from the existing site and what to rebuild.” Even though both may seem like requests to “build a website,” the skills actually required are quite different.
One aspect that’s particularly easy to overlook is the transfer of search engine rankings. A site that’s been in operation for years has accumulated a certain level of value from Google (in terms of search rankings and indexing status).If you make major changes to the page structure or rewrite URLs without setting up proper redirects (so-called 301 redirects), the credibility you’ve built up over time can be reset. The situation where “the design is new, but for some reason, fewer people are coming from search results than before” is usually caused by launching the site without properly handling this transition.
Common Triggers for Thinking, “I Need to Do Something About My Current Site”
Based on the consultations we receive, the following are common triggers:
- We can no longer contact the company we commissioned to build the site, or they have gone out of business
- The in-house staff member in charge was transferred or resigned, and now no one knows how to update the site
- The layout suddenly broke following a server contract renewal or system update
- The site isn’t optimized for smartphones, and it’s been left as is
- The design has become outdated and no longer aligns with the current brand image
- The WordPress admin panel is slow, making updates a stressful experience
In particular, for sites created more than 10 years ago, it’s not uncommon for them to still be running on outdated versions of WordPress, plugins, and PHP from that time.Even if the site appears to be functioning, vulnerabilities may have been left unaddressed behind the scenes, or errors may suddenly start appearing following a server contract renewal. While these issues are often put off with the excuse that “it’s not causing any particular problems,” we recommend having the site’s condition checked while it’s still operational, rather than waiting until a problem actually occurs before seeking advice.
Perspectives to Keep in Mind Specifically for the Shiga Region
Within Shiga Prefecture, trends in commercial districts and customer demographics vary by area—such as Otsu, Kusatsu, Moriyama, and Koka. It’s not uncommon for the competitive landscape and local search demand itself to have changed since the site was originally built years ago.As seen in this article, it’s becoming more common for other web design agencies in the same industry to publish comparison articles, and I feel that the question of “how easily can a business be found locally when searched for?” has become even more important than before.
I also get the impression that the longer a company or store has been in business locally, the more likely its owners are to feel hesitant about making major changes at this stage. However, it’s entirely possible to approach a redesign by preserving the company’s history and trust while simply updating how information is presented and how easily the business can be found to meet current standards.In fact, even when renovating long-established shrines or independent stores, it’s common to proceed by preserving the existing atmosphere while only restructuring the underlying systems to meet current standards.
Additional Points to Confirm When Choosing a Renewal Consultant
In addition to the criteria for new website development (service area, track record, CMS, SEO, and support system), it’s also a good idea to confirm the following points when planning a redesign.
- If the existing URL structure changes, can they handle the transfer of SEO rankings through measures such as 301 redirects?
- To what extent can they migrate and retain the past performance data and content from your current site?
- Can work proceed while keeping the current site live until launch (i.e., will there be any downtime)?
- If there is existing data—such as e-commerce functionality or member information—how will it be migrated?
All five companies introduced here have a track record not only in new website development but also in website redesign projects. In particular, there can be significant differences between companies in their ability to handle outdated systems and make proposals that delve into the internal structure of SEO. Therefore, when consulting with them, we recommend specifically asking, “Do you have experience with website redesigns?”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of hiring a local web design company in Shiga Prefecture rather than one from outside the prefecture?
A major advantage is the ability to meet in person for discussions. This makes it easier to share the atmosphere and subtle nuances of your store or company—details that can be difficult to convey through online communication alone. Additionally, since they can make proposals based on an understanding of Shiga’s local market and customer base, the resulting designs and copy are more likely to be tailored to your target audience.
When getting multiple quotes, how many companies should I contact?
A good rule of thumb is 2 to 3 companies. If you reach out to too many companies, the burden of comparing them becomes too great, and you may end up choosing based solely on the “lowest price.” It’s easier to identify the production company that best suits your business by selecting 2 to 3 companies with clearly distinct areas of expertise, such as those introduced here, and comparing them.
What specific points should you clarify during the initial meeting?
There are three key points you should definitely confirm: “How many rounds of revisions are included for free?”, “Will there be additional charges for minor changes after launch?”, and “Who will be the main point of contact?” Often, you won’t know—unless you ask at this stage—how flexible the agency will be after launch, beyond just their design concepts and past work.
How long does it take to see results from SEO after the website is launched?
Generally, it’s said to take about 3 to 6 months for SEO results to start appearing. Search rankings don’t rise immediately after launch; this requires not only optimizing the site’s internal structure but also continuing to update content after launch. If you’re looking for immediate results, combining your efforts with social media ads or landing pages is another option to consider.
Should I hire a freelancer or a web design agency?
If you want to keep costs down or prefer to communicate directly with the person in charge, a freelancer is a good option. On the other hand, for projects requiring multiple areas of expertise—such as design, coding, and system development—or if you want to avoid the risk of the assigned person becoming unavailable, a web design agency with a dedicated team offers greater peace of mind.
Can I expect the same quality from a regional production company as from one in a major city?
Just like the five companies introduced here, there are definitely production agencies in Shiga that can more than hold their own against urban firms in terms of technical expertise and design quality. In fact, their deep roots in the local community often translate into a deeper understanding of the business districts and customer demographics of local companies and stores.
What are some common sources of trouble after signing a contract?
Typical examples include “the result didn’t match what I had in mind” or “additional costs were higher than expected.” You can prevent these misunderstandings to some extent by sharing reference websites and clarifying the number of revisions allowed and the conditions under which additional fees apply before signing the contract.
Which should I set up first: a website or social media?
If you already have social media accounts with a significant number of followers, we recommend proceeding in parallel: leverage those accounts first while preparing your website. Conversely, if you’re just starting out on social media, it’s effective to first establish a website that can be found through search engines as your core foundation, and then expand your reach through social media from there.
Summary
Shiga is by no means a large market, but there are certainly creators here with their own distinct strengths. If you’re currently unsure of whom to turn to, I’d be delighted if you’d consider these five companies (including ours, of course) as part of your comparison.
Glossary: Technical Terms Used in This Article
AMP
A technical standard designed to significantly speed up page loading on smartphones. It is particularly effective for pages that receive a high volume of search traffic.
W3C Compliance
This refers to HTML and CSS being written correctly in accordance with the rules established by the W3C, the organization responsible for standardizing web technologies. This helps prevent layout issues and accessibility problems.
JSON-LD
A structured data format used to accurately convey a page’s content to search engines. It makes it easier for product information, FAQs, and other content to be displayed clearly in search results.
GA4 (Google Analytics 4)
The current version of the web analytics tool provided by Google. It allows you to track site visitor behavior and conversions.
MEO (Map Engine Optimization)
Strategies designed to improve ranking on Google Maps (Google Business Profile). It is becoming increasingly important for attracting customers to brick-and-mortar and local businesses.
CMS (Content Management System)
A system that allows you to update website text and images without specialized knowledge. WordPress and microCMS are prime examples.
Headless CMS
A type of CMS in which the content management interface is separated from the system that actually renders the website. microCMS is an example of this type.