24 answers · 8 topics
The right questions before the decision is locked.
Concise, practical answers about websites, eCommerce, custom applications, technical support, SEO, AI and working with Firstidea. Each topic links to the page where that subject is explored in depth.
Decision map
Start with the decision in front of you.
This hub does not try to contain every possible question. It answers recurring decision-stage concerns and routes you to deeper, specialist information.
Answer first, depth second
The FAQ helps you move forward; it does not replace discovery.
These answers provide a clear first direction without promising price, timing or technology before the facts are known. For each real project we review the existing system, data, integrations, team and success criteria.
Tell us about your projectFAQ
Website development and technology choices.
The first decisions about structure, CMS, content and implementation approach.
How do you decide whether a website should use WordPress or custom development?
The decision starts with content, user roles, integrations, future changes and budget. WordPress is a strong choice when mature content management matters; custom development becomes appropriate when the core workflows, data or functionality go meaningfully beyond a CMS.
Does Firstidea build only WordPress websites?
No. We build WordPress and Gutenberg websites, OpenCart and WooCommerce stores, as well as custom websites and web applications without a CMS. We choose the platform after discovery, not because it is the only technology we know.
Can you handle the website structure and copy?
We can handle information architecture, content direction, SEO and GEO briefs, plus writing or editing for core pages. The business still needs to provide accurate services, evidence, terms, source material and specialist knowledge.
FAQ
eCommerce, WooCommerce, OpenCart and commercial workflows.
A suitable platform still needs a sound catalogue, checkout and daily operating model.
WooCommerce or OpenCart: which platform is better?
There is no single best platform for every business. WooCommerce connects content and commerce particularly well inside WordPress, while OpenCart often suits catalogue-led stores and established commercial operations. The catalogue, integrations, team and existing investment determine the right choice.
Can you connect an eShop to ERP, couriers, payments or marketplaces?
Yes, when the systems provide a reliable API, extension or documented data-exchange method. Before quoting, we map products, inventory, prices, orders, customers, errors and which system is the source of truth.
Can an existing eShop be migrated without losing SEO?
A controlled migration is possible, but a promise of zero risk would be misleading. We map URLs, metadata, categories, products, redirects, structured data, analytics and Search Console before launch, then monitor performance after the move.
FAQ
Custom applications, portals and integrations.
When an established CMS is enough and when business logic needs its own system.
When is a custom web application more appropriate than WordPress?
When the core product is a distinct workflow, portal, dashboard, permission model or data integration that cannot be described well as pages and posts. Discovery clarifies whether the project needs a full custom system or a controlled custom extension.
Do we have to build the complete final system from day one?
No. Where it is safe, we define a focused first release with real business value, clear boundaries and measurable acceptance criteria. The architecture should support growth without pretending that an MVP covers every future scenario on day one.
Who owns the code and the data?
Ownership of repositories, credentials, data, third-party licences and deliverables is stated clearly in the proposal or agreement. The business should understand what it owns, what it licenses and which external services the system depends on.
FAQ
Technical support and takeover of existing systems.
We first understand the current system, then decide whether to repair, stabilise or rebuild.
Can you take over a website or eShop built by another agency?
Yes, after a technical audit and review of access, code, hosting, licences, backups, integrations and outstanding issues. We do not assume that every installation is safe to take over before its real condition is known.
Does the system need a rebuild before support can begin?
Not necessarily. If the current system can be stabilised and evolved at acceptable risk, we prefer a controlled takeover. We recommend a rebuild when technical debt, security or platform constraints make continued work more expensive or dangerous.
Do you support WordPress, WooCommerce, OpenCart and Joomla?
Yes, with boundaries that depend on the platform and installation. Joomla and especially older versions require compatibility and security assessment first, while WordPress, WooCommerce and OpenCart have dedicated support services.
FAQ
SEO, GEO, performance and security.
Improvements need a baseline, priorities and real verification after implementation.
Can you guarantee first position on Google?
No. Nobody controls the algorithm, competitors or demand. We can improve technical eligibility, architecture, content, entities, measurement and consistency so the website has a stronger foundation for organic search and AI discovery.
Is website speed improvement just a cache plugin?
No. Cache is one layer. We review hosting, TTFB, images, fonts, JavaScript, CSS, third-party scripts, the database, templates and real Core Web Vitals. Every change is tested so it does not break checkout, tracking or dynamic behaviour.
What does a WordPress or eCommerce security review include?
The scope is agreed for each case and may cover accounts, roles, updates, extensions, logs, backups, hardening, malware indicators and external integrations. A review reduces risk, but it cannot promise that no future incident will occur.
FAQ
Cost, timing and the way we work.
Useful answers depend on scope, not a generic price list.
How much does a new website or eShop cost?
Cost depends on content, the design system, functionality, data, integrations, migration and testing. After discovery we provide a clear scope and proposal; a number without those inputs would be misleading.
How long does a project take?
Timing depends on scope, content and data readiness, approvals and external integrations. At the start we agree phases, responsibilities and dependencies so the schedule reflects the real work rather than only a preferred date.
What do you need in order to prepare a proposal?
We need the business goal, audience, existing website or system, core functions, examples, integrations, available material and desired timeframe. If the scope is not yet clear, we begin with discovery.
FAQ
AI chatbots, assistants and automations.
AI grounded in approved sources, with boundaries, monitoring and human responsibility.
What can an AI chatbot do for my business?
It answers questions about your company, services and products, helps visitors find information and can collect contact enquiries with consent. For WordPress and WooCommerce, Firstidea handles training on your business information, installation and configuration. When information is insufficient, it is configured to suggest contacting your team. AI can still make mistakes.
What is the AI Store Manager Assistant?
It is a product in development for WooCommerce, OpenCart and WordPress, designed to assist with controlled store tasks, analysis and recommendations. Data access, permitted actions and human approval are defined for each pilot.
Can AI connect to our eShop or internal systems?
Yes, through secure, limited integrations when suitable APIs and a clear business purpose exist. We start with the smallest useful scope, activity logs and access boundaries rather than granting unrestricted control from the outset.
FAQ
Hosting, maintenance and operation after launch.
Launch is the move into real operation, not the end of technical responsibility.
Does the website have to be hosted by Firstidea?
No. We can assess the current hosting or propose a managed environment based on the platform, traffic, support model and access requirements. Hosting and application responsibilities should always be explicit.
What does maintenance after launch include?
Depending on the agreed plan, it may include controlled updates, backups and restore tests, monitoring, small fixes, security reviews and technical support. New features or substantial content projects are estimated separately.
Are backups provided, and who verifies that they work?
A backup must include the correct files and database, follow an appropriate retention policy and not depend only on the same production environment. Real recovery is demonstrated through controlled restore tests, not simply a successful backup message.
Your context matters
Could not find your exact situation?
Send us the current website or eShop, your objective, the main difficulties and the decision you are trying to make. We will respond to the actual context instead of sending you back to a generic service list.
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