Here are the important factors that you should consider while choosing the right web services provider.

1.Knowledge
Goes without saying that your web services provider should be knowledgeable. When you talk to them, tell them your needs and then ask them which technology they are going to use. Ask them if you will be able to maintain the site after it is live.

2.Scalability
Your web site should be able to grow and handle the traffic if it becomes really popular. A poorly designed site will not be able to scale properly and may cause you lost traffic and even money. Website design that separates Data layer from Presentation layer scale much better. Read Business Software Buyer Guide to know more about these concepts.

3.Reliability
There are many options for hosting a web site. You can get a shared hosting plan, rent a server or collocate your own machine. The hosting plan your use should be reliable. A popular site going down even for couple minutes causes huge losses in terms of goodwill and money.

4.Extendability
How easily you can extend your site will depend upon its design. If you are using static HTML pages it may be lot of work as compared to if you are using a good CMS. You should keep your options open and avoid getting locked down.

5.Security
Internet is like Wild West of modern times. Things are always on move and it is too big to control. So the it is the responsibility of the website owner to secure the site. You must think about this factor all the time. Your security policy should be constantly updated with time. Your website provider/developer should be aware of the security risks and should be able to advise your accordingly.

6.Customer Service
Some time or the other you will have to contact the customer service of the provider you choose. Always check what kind of customer service policy they have in place. Are their reps knowledgeable enough or they are just some students they hired to answer the phone. I know it is bit tough to find out all the answers in advance but if you ask right questions and do some research you will be much better off.

7.Budget
Goes without saying that budget will also factor in heavily in your decision. But it should not be the only factor. Usually the knowledgeable people are little more expensive and in the long run they fare cheaper as compared to someone who is learning on the job and wastes your time and money to get his own education.

8.References
A professional provider will be able to provide your with a list of reference as well as pointers to their prior work. Check up on the reference and do your due diligence. If you feel their work is good and shows the knowledge and professionalism you are good to go.

Hopefully you are now armed with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision and get best value for you money. Please do contact us if you need any more information.

For any questions, comments or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.