'We have built it, so it belongs to us." This is a very common response that business owners are met with when trying to switch from their current marketing company or simply collect digital properties they believe belong to their brand. Although this kind of behavior may not be considered professional by some, it is most certainly a common practice and often proposed in contracts in such a way that it is perfectly legal!
It is important to understand these topics clearly while reviewing your contract. Being too trusting of seemingly professional agencies while not asking the right questions can cause you to end up in the same situation. Perhaps you are already in this situation and feel like you're ready for a fight to get your hostage website back. If so, we encourage you to continue reading (and consider partnering with a truly professional agency like us here at your Online Capital Group!) to learn more.
Important Things To Consider For Keeping Your Website Investment Safe
Not all developers will try to hold your site hostage; however, it is important to pay proper attention to some facts to avoid that situation altogether. When you go to work with a different developer or marketing team, you can first establish a foundation of how they operate and what their expectations are for the exchange of services.
Who Owns And Controls Your Domain Name?
Although it is very convenient, using your website developer to purchase your domain name on your behalf could cause many problems if the partnership breaks down without an ownership hierarchy previously set up. (Online Capital Group prioritizes our client's rights to their digital assets, providing services as benefits that better manage and assist a company's growth.) This is because whoever buys it owns it, according to some straightforward domain ownership laws. For these reasons, it is especially risky to work with an independent contractor or developer. You will suddenly be out of luck if they abruptly "go dark."
Transferring the domain registrar is necessary to regain control of your domain name. The registrar is the individual or entity your hosting platform identifies as the domain name's owner. It is feasible to file a claim to return ownership to your organization if your developer is unable or unwilling to transfer these credentials. If your brand is registered with a trademark, this process could take time and cost money. Don't lose your patience, for Online Capital Group has helped many businesses overcome unfortunate obstacles and get back on track toward the results they need!
What If I Can't Get My Hostage Website Back?
In extremely rare circumstances where there isn't enough convincing evidence that you are the owner of your own website, you might have to recreate your online presence completely. This entails buying a brand new domain, starting again with your website development, and refining a new SEO strategy.
Important: Always remember that starting over with a clean canvas and a well branded URL is far more effective than sticking to a patchwork web asset with a conflicting presence!
The process might be less complicated when working with a professional and experienced digital marketing agency, however, you will benefit from solid guidance from the very start. Online Capital Group can offer the partnership you need to bring your brand back to the forefront of the competition. Don't remain in a trap, choose services that will make a difference.
Give us a call at (904) 600-3600 today and ask how you can get started turning things around and start scoring some sales!
