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What is a digital agency?
A digital agency is a company that offers a range of services within content production, design, social media, digital marketing and much more. The purpose of a digital agency is simply to support large and small businesses in the digital landscape, helping them gain a stronger competitive advantage. The size and expertise of the agency will vary; some have niche expertise with specialization in a few specific areas, while others offer a broader range of digital services.
What does a digital agency do?
What a digital agency does depends entirely on which agency we are talking about. The industry the agency operates in, which services they offer, and how they manage customer relations are factors that often vary from agency to agency. All digital agencies share some common traits, and what we all do is guide, provide advisory services, and deliver the agreed service or product. It probably comes as no surprise that everything a digital agency produces and delivers to corporate clients is digital material. In other words, it is all about improving your online presence and increasing your visibility on the web.
How to choose the right digital agency?
There is certainly no shortage of digital agencies in Oslo, so making the right choice is crucial. But what should you actually prioritize when selecting a digital agency? Since there are so many different digital agencies out there, offering various services and expertise, there is no single correct answer. An agency that is the perfect match for one company may not be the right fit for you. Here are a few steps that can make the selection process a bit easier:
1. What do you want to achieve with support from a digital agency?
The support you get from a digital agency should be aligned with your business goals and needs. It is therefore an advantage if you already know which challenges and needs your company has, and what goals and ambitions you have for the business going forward. This makes it easier for you to see which agency is the best fit, while also making it easier for the agency to guide you in the direction you want. Much of this can also be clarified together with the agency, as a large part of our work is to assess your company’s current situation to identify what can be improved.
2. Does the agency in question have the competence and experience you need?
The next step you should consider is whether the agency’s expertise is relevant to your needs. It can be useful to review which projects the agency has worked on previously. Have they worked with clients in the same industry as you, or delivered similar projects? Make sure the agency has the capabilities required in the areas where you need support. This can include everything from social media, design, SEO, strategy and much more.
3. Does the digital agency appear professional and trustworthy?
First impressions matter, and you can learn a lot by browsing around the agency’s website. What does the site look like? Is it easy to navigate, does it have a clear structure, and can you find the information you need? If there’s one thing a digital agency should have nailed, it’s definitely a strong website. Just like when your customers explore your website or visit your store, it’s just as important that you, as a potential client in this situation, have a positive experience. On the agency’s digital platform, you should be able to find what you’re looking for and be left with a clear sense of the value they can deliver.
4. Which working methods and processes does the agency use?
If the digital agency involves you in the approach and strategy they use, you should see this as a positive sign. It shows that they are committed and genuinely interested in seeing your company succeed with the project you are about to launch together. If they do not offer this proactively, make sure to request a clear strategy, measurable KPI-er, and a solid plan for evaluations.
5. Which digital agency can meet your budget?
Purchasing services from a digital agency may not seem cheap at first, but considering the value your company gets out of it, you truly get what you pay for – and then some! Being a client of a digital agency should be profitable, and even if the prices may feel overwhelming initially, it is often over time that the real return appears. Our experience is that clients recoup the costs of the services – and more on top of that!
6. How is the chemistry between you and your contact person at the digital agency?
How you and your main contact at the digital agency communicate is crucial for making the collaboration work. That’s also often when the results come, when both of you are engaged and actively involved in the process. You should feel comfortable with the digital agency’s representatives and be confident that you understand each other well.
7. Make sure you have a clear and solid contract in place
It is recommended to have a clear and robust agreement that defines expectations, deliverables, time allocation, and financial aspects. This way, both parties can enter into an exciting collaboration with peace of mind!
What is the difference between a full-service digital agency and a specialized digital agency (SEO/Ads)?
A full-service digital agency offers a wide range of services that cover all aspects of digital marketing. Instead of working in depth with a smaller set of services, a full-service digital agency focuses on a broader portfolio of digital services. They may still have deep expertise in several of these areas, but are not necessarily specialists in each individual discipline. A typical full-service digital agency can also be referred to as a marketing agency or media agency.
A specialized digital agency consists of experts within their specific field – such as SEO and advertising – and has deeper knowledge and experience in this area. For example, if SEO is a dominant part of their expertise, it can be called an SEO-byrå. Specialized digital agencies often attract clients with one or more specific needs, rather than clients who require a fully comprehensive solution. Compared to extensive and highly customized solutions that include many services, a specialized digital agency can offer a more competitive price within its specific focus areas.
In any case, both types of agencies have their strengths – it all depends on your company’s needs and circumstances. Take the time to make a thorough assessment before you choose, and remember that reaching out is completely non-binding. Good luck!
