Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about WTheory and our services

About WTheory

What is WTheory?

WTheory is the brand name of West Solution Consulting Corp., a strategic web design studio based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. We specialize in creating high-impact, business-focused websites that drive sales growth and support strategic business objectives. Our approach combines rigorous business analysis with exceptional design execution, ensuring every project delivers measurable results.

Where is WTheory located?

WTheory is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. While we are based in Toronto, we serve clients across Canada, from Vancouver to Halifax, and work with businesses internationally. Our Toronto location allows us to meet with local clients in person while leveraging technology to collaborate effectively with remote clients nationwide.

Which areas do you serve?

We serve clients across Canada, with a specific focus on the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Ontario. Our primary service areas include:

Greater Toronto Area (GTA): Toronto, Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Woodbridge, Thornhill, Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Newmarket, Aurora, King City, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa.

Ontario: Ottawa, Hamilton, London, Kitchener-Waterloo, Windsor, Kingston, Barrie, Guelph, St. Catharines, Niagara Falls.

While these are our primary local markets, our digital-first approach allows us to effectively partner with businesses anywhere in Canada or internationally.

Do you work with clients outside of Toronto?

Yes, absolutely. While we are Toronto-based, we work with companies across Canada—including Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Halifax, and other major cities. We also serve international clients and offer both virtual and in-person consultation options. Our remote collaboration processes are well-established and highly effective.

What is West Solution Consulting Corp.?

West Solution Consulting Corp. is the legal entity and registered corporation. The company is incorporated in Ontario, Canada, and provides strategic web design and business consulting services to clients across various industries.

Why is WTheory established?

WTheory was established to address a critical gap in the market: the disconnect between beautiful design and strategic business outcomes. Our team brings decades of combined experience in web design, user experience, business strategy, and digital marketing. We leverage this expertise to deliver websites that are both visually stunning and commercially effective.

Services & Expertise

What services does WTheory offer?

We offer comprehensive strategic web design services including:

  • Strategic Business Review & Analysis: In-depth analysis of your business model, competitive landscape, and growth objectives
  • User Experience (UX) Design: Research-driven design that prioritizes user needs and behaviors
  • User Interface (UI) Design: Visually compelling interfaces that align with brand identity and psychology
  • Responsive Web Development: Mobile-first, cross-browser compatible websites optimized for all devices
  • Brand Strategy & Positioning: Strategic brand development and market positioning
  • Information Architecture: Structured content organization that reduces cognitive load
  • Conversion Optimization: Data-driven design decisions focused on driving conversions
  • SEO-Optimized Design: Technical SEO best practices integrated into every project
  • Accessibility Compliance: WCAG 2.1 Level AA and AODA compliance
  • Ongoing Maintenance & Optimization: Continuous improvement and performance monitoring

What makes WTheory different from other web design agencies?

Our unique approach combines strategic business consulting with world-class design execution. Unlike typical web design agencies that focus solely on aesthetics, we begin every project with a comprehensive strategic review of your business. Our team includes:

  • Harvard University Alumni: Business strategy experts who understand corporate decision-making and ROI
  • Top Design School Graduates: Talent from leading design institutions across Canada and the United States
  • Business Leaders: Experienced professionals who have built and scaled successful companies
  • Technical Experts: Developers proficient in modern web technologies and best practices

We don't just design websites—we architect digital solutions that drive measurable sales growth and support long-term business objectives.

What industries do you specialize in?

We work across diverse industries including industrial manufacturing, B2B services, non-profit organizations, arts and culture, professional services, technology companies, healthcare, education, real estate, and financial services. Our strategic approach allows us to quickly understand the unique challenges and opportunities within any industry. Our portfolio includes projects for engineering firms (WYSS Singapore), stone fabrication studios (Ordo Saxum, CornerStone), business conglomerates (JR Partners), educational non-profits (NRIDL), and art galleries (Oro Aquae).

Do you work with startups or only established businesses?

We work with both startups and established enterprises. For startups, we help establish a strong digital foundation and brand identity from day one. For established businesses, we provide strategic redesigns that modernize their online presence, improve conversion rates, and support growth initiatives. Our strategic review process is valuable for companies at any stage of development.

What is your design philosophy?

Our design philosophy is rooted in the principle that "design is not just what it looks like and feels like—design is how it works." We believe that:

  • Amateurs design for themselves
  • Professionals design for the user
  • Experts design for the business goal through the user

We use the Design Thinking Framework (Discover, Define, Develop, Deliver) to ensure every design decision is backed by research, strategy, and measurable business objectives. Our designs balance aesthetics, usability, and commercial effectiveness.

Do you provide SEO services?

Yes, SEO is integrated into every project we undertake. We implement technical SEO best practices including semantic HTML structure, optimized meta tags, fast page load times, mobile responsiveness, structured data markup (Schema.org), clean URL structures, and accessibility features that improve search rankings. We also provide guidance on content strategy and keyword optimization. For ongoing SEO campaigns and content marketing, we can recommend trusted partners or work collaboratively with your existing marketing team.

What is a strategic review, and why is it important?

A strategic review is an in-depth analysis of your business, conducted before any design work begins. This process includes stakeholder interviews, competitive analysis, user research, market positioning assessment, and business goals alignment. The strategic review is critical because it ensures your website isn't just beautiful—it's strategically designed to achieve specific business outcomes such as lead generation, sales growth, brand positioning, or customer retention. This approach minimizes risk, maximizes ROI, and ensures every design decision supports your overall business strategy.

Can you help improve an existing website, or do you only build new ones?

We do both. We can conduct a comprehensive audit and redesign of your existing website, or build a brand-new website from scratch. For existing websites, we analyze current performance, identify friction points, conduct usability testing, and implement strategic improvements. Whether you need a complete overhaul or incremental optimization, we tailor our approach to your specific needs and budget.

Team & Expertise

Who are the people behind WTheory?

Our team is composed of world-class professionals with diverse backgrounds:

  • Harvard University and other Ivy School Alumni: Business strategists with deep expertise in organizational behavior, market analysis, and corporate finance
  • Top Design School Graduates: Designers from leading institutions including OCAD University (Toronto), University of Toronto, and other prestigious programs across Canada and the United States
  • Business Leaders: Former executives and entrepreneurs with proven track records in building and scaling successful companies
  • Technical Specialists: Full-stack developers, UX researchers, accessibility experts, and digital marketing professionals

This multidisciplinary approach ensures that every project benefits from strategic, creative, and technical excellence.

What qualifications does your team have?

Our team members hold advanced degrees and professional certifications including MBAs, Master of Design (MDes), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), and specialized certifications in UX design, web accessibility (IAAP CPACC), project management (PMP), and digital marketing (Google Analytics, HubSpot). Many team members have 10-15+ years of industry experience working with Fortune 500 companies, leading agencies, and high-growth startups.

How do you stay current with design and technology trends?

We invest heavily in continuous learning and professional development. Our team regularly attends industry conferences (e.g., An Event Apart, UX Toronto, Interaction Conference), participates in workshops and training programs, contributes to design communities, conducts internal knowledge-sharing sessions, and maintains memberships in professional organizations such as AIGA, Interaction Design Association (IxDA), and the Canadian Marketing Association. We also monitor emerging technologies including AI, AR/VR, and progressive web apps to ensure our clients benefit from cutting-edge solutions.

Process & Timeline

What is your design process?

We follow the Design Thinking Framework, structured as a six-phase process:

  1. Phase 1: Empathize & Discovery – Stakeholder interviews, user research, competitive analysis
  2. Phase 2: Definition & Strategy – Information architecture, user journey mapping, wireframing
  3. Phase 3: Ideation & UI Design – Art direction, high-fidelity design, interactive prototyping
  4. Phase 4: Testing & Validation – Usability testing, accessibility audit, feedback integration
  5. Phase 5: Development Handoff – Design system creation, asset export, developer collaboration
  6. Phase 6: Launch & Iteration – QA testing, deployment, post-launch analytics, continuous optimization

This process is detailed on our Design Experience page.

How long does a typical web design project take?

Project timelines vary based on complexity and scope:

  • Small Business Website (5-10 pages): 1-2 weeks
  • Medium Business Website (10-30 pages): 2-3 weeks
  • Large Enterprise Website (30+ pages, complex features): 3-4 weeks

The strategic review phase typically takes 2-4 weeks. Rush projects can be accommodated for an additional fee, though we always prioritize quality over speed.

What information do you need to get started?

To begin a project, we typically need:

  • Company background and history
  • Business goals and objectives for the website
  • Target audience and customer personas
  • Competitor websites and industry context
  • Brand guidelines (if available): logo, colors, fonts, imagery
  • Content inventory: existing copy, images, videos
  • Technical requirements: hosting, integrations, third-party systems
  • Budget and timeline expectations
  • Key stakeholders and decision-makers

If you don't have all of this information, that's okay—we can help you develop it through our strategic review process.

How involved do I need to be during the project?

We value collaboration and believe the best results come from strong client partnerships. Throughout the project, you can expect:

  • Weekly check-ins: Regular status updates and progress reviews
  • Milestone presentations: Key deliverables presented for feedback (wireframes, designs, prototypes)
  • Structured feedback sessions: Opportunities to provide input at critical decision points
  • Content collaboration: Your team will need to provide or approve website content

Typically, clients dedicate 2-5 hours per week to the project. We respect your time and make the process as efficient as possible.

Do you provide content writing services?

Yes, we can provide professional copywriting and content strategy services. Our writers understand how to craft compelling, SEO-optimized content that aligns with your brand voice and drives conversions. We can handle everything from homepage copy to detailed product descriptions and blog posts. Alternatively, if you prefer to provide your own content, we can offer guidance on structure, tone, and SEO best practices.

What happens after the website launches?

The launch is just the beginning. Post-launch, we offer:

  • Training: Comprehensive training on how to update and manage your website
  • Documentation: Detailed guides and video tutorials
  • Support: Technical support for bug fixes and troubleshooting
  • Analytics Setup: Google Analytics, Search Console, and conversion tracking implementation
  • Performance Monitoring: Ongoing analysis of traffic, user behavior, and conversion rates
  • Maintenance Plans: Optional monthly retainers for updates, security patches, and optimization
  • Growth Consulting: Ongoing strategic guidance to improve performance over time

Pricing & Investment

How much does a website project cost?

Investment levels vary based on project scope, complexity, and business requirements.

Every project includes our strategic review process, which alone provides significant business value. We offer custom quotes based on your specific needs. Contact us for a detailed proposal.

What is included in the project cost?

Our project fees typically include:

  • Strategic business review and discovery
  • User research and competitive analysis
  • Information architecture and site mapping
  • Wireframing and prototyping
  • Custom UI/UX design
  • Responsive front-end development
  • Content management system (CMS) integration
  • SEO optimization and technical setup
  • Accessibility compliance (WCAG 2.1 AA, AODA)
  • Quality assurance and cross-browser testing
  • Training and documentation
  • Post-launch support

Additional services such as content writing, photography, advanced integrations, or ongoing maintenance are quoted separately.

Do you require a deposit or upfront payment?

Yes, we typically structure payments in milestones:

  • 30-50% deposit upon contract signing to begin the strategic review and discovery phase
  • 25-35% upon approval of design concepts and wireframes
  • 25-35% upon project completion and website launch

For larger enterprise projects, we can customize the payment schedule to align with your procurement processes and budget cycles.

What is your refund or cancellation policy?

Due to the custom nature of our work and the significant resources invested in each project, deposits are non-refundable once work has commenced.

Do you offer ongoing maintenance or support plans?

Yes, we offer monthly and annual maintenance plans that include:

  • Software and security updates
  • Performance monitoring and optimization
  • Content updates and revisions
  • Technical support and bug fixes
  • Analytics reporting and insights
  • Backup and disaster recovery
  • Priority support response times

Plans are customized based on your website's complexity and support needs.

Meetings & Collaboration

Where can we meet in person in Toronto?

We offer flexible meeting options across Toronto to accommodate your schedule and preferences:

  • Higher Education Institutions: We have access to meeting spaces at various universities and colleges across Toronto, including the University of Toronto, Ryerson University (Toronto Metropolitan University), OCAD University, and York University. These professional, neutral locations are ideal for focused strategic discussions.
  • Industry Partner Locations: We maintain relationships with co-working spaces and business centers throughout Toronto's downtown core, Financial District, Liberty Village, and King West areas.
  • Client Offices: We are happy to come to your office for in-person meetings, workshops, or presentations.
  • Coffee Shops & Casual Venues: For informal discussions or initial consultations, we can meet at professional coffee shops in convenient locations.

When scheduling, we'll work with you to select the most convenient location based on your preferences and the nature of the meeting.

Do you offer virtual meetings?

Absolutely. We use professional video conferencing platforms including Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet for virtual collaboration. Virtual meetings are highly effective for clients across Canada and internationally. Our remote processes are well-established, allowing us to conduct stakeholder interviews, present designs, facilitate workshops, and manage projects entirely online with the same level of quality and engagement as in-person meetings.

Can you travel to meet us outside of Toronto?

Yes, for major projects or enterprise clients, we can travel to meet you in person anywhere in Canada. Travel costs are typically included in the project scope for significant engagements. We've worked with clients in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, Ottawa, and other cities, and we're always happy to accommodate in-person meetings when they add value to the project.

Technical & Development

What technologies and platforms do you work with?

We are technology-agnostic and select the best tools for each project. Common platforms and technologies we work with include:

  • Content Management Systems: WordPress, Webflow, Shopify, Wix (Enterprise), Squarespace, Drupal, Contentful
  • E-commerce: Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento
  • Front-End: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, React, Vue.js, Next.js
  • Back-End: Node.js, Python, PHP, Ruby on Rails
  • Hosting: AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, Vercel, Netlify, WP Engine

We recommend the optimal technology stack based on your specific requirements, budget, and long-term scalability needs.

Will my website be mobile-friendly and responsive?

Yes, absolutely. Every website we design is fully responsive and optimized for all devices—smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops. We follow a mobile-first design approach, ensuring excellent user experiences across all screen sizes. With over 60% of web traffic coming from mobile devices, responsive design is not optional—it's essential. We also test on real devices to ensure performance and usability meet our high standards.

Is accessibility important, and do you comply with WCAG and AODA?

Accessibility is a core priority for every project we undertake. We design and develop websites to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards and comply with Ontario's Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). This includes proper semantic HTML, keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, sufficient color contrast, alternative text for images, and clear focus indicators. Accessible design is not only an ethical and legal requirement—it also improves SEO, expands your audience, and creates better user experiences for everyone. Learn more on our Accessibility Statement.

Can you integrate third-party tools and services into my website?

Yes, we regularly integrate a wide range of third-party services including:

  • CRM systems (Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho)
  • Email marketing platforms (Mailchimp, Constant Contact, SendGrid)
  • Payment gateways (Stripe, PayPal, Square)
  • Analytics tools (Google Analytics, Hotjar, Mixpanel)
  • Live chat and support (Intercom, Drift, Zendesk)
  • Marketing automation (Marketo, Pardot, ActiveCampaign)
  • Booking and scheduling systems (Calendly, Acuity)
  • Social media feeds and APIs

We ensure seamless integration and data flow between your website and essential business tools.

Do you provide website hosting?

We can recommend and set up hosting solutions tailored to your needs. We work with trusted providers like AWS, Google Cloud, WP Engine, Kinsta, and others to ensure your website is fast, secure, and reliable. We can also manage the hosting setup process and provide ongoing server management as part of our maintenance plans.

Will I own the website and all the files?

Yes, upon final payment, you will own the website, all design files, source code, and content. We believe in full transparency and client ownership. You will have complete control over your digital assets and the freedom to host, modify, or migrate your website as you see fit. We provide all necessary files, documentation, and credentials for your records.

Getting Started

How do I get started with WTheory?

Getting started is simple:

  1. Contact Us: Reach out via email or phone to schedule an initial consultation
  2. Discovery Call: We'll have a 30-60 minute conversation to understand your business, goals, and project requirements
  3. Proposal: We'll prepare a detailed proposal outlining scope, timeline, and investment
  4. Contract & Kickoff: Once the proposal is approved, we'll execute a contract and schedule the project kickoff meeting
  5. Strategic Review: We begin with our comprehensive strategic review process

The entire process from initial contact to project kickoff typically takes 1-3 weeks, depending on scheduling and decision-making timelines.

What if I'm not sure what I need?

That's perfectly normal, and it's exactly why our strategic review process exists. Many clients come to us with a general sense that they need a "better website" but aren't sure of the specifics. Through our discovery process, we help you clarify your goals, identify opportunities, and define the right solution. We'll guide you every step of the way—you don't need to have all the answers upfront.

Are you accepting new projects right now?

We carefully manage our project load to ensure every client receives the attention and quality they deserve. While we often have availability for new projects, our schedule can fill up 1-3 months in advance for larger engagements. We recommend reaching out as early as possible to discuss your timeline and reserve a spot in our schedule. Contact us to inquire about current availability.

Can you provide references or case studies?

Absolutely. We're proud of the work we've done for our clients and the results we've achieved. You can view detailed case studies on our homepage, which include design strategy breakdowns for projects like NRIDL, StoryBee, Oro Aquae Gallery, CornerStone, Ordo Saxum, WYSS Singapore, and JR Partners. For specific references or to speak with past clients, please reach out and we'll connect you with relevant contacts in your industry.

What is the best way to contact you?

The best way to reach us is by email at support@wtheory.com. We typically respond within 1 business day. For urgent inquiries or to schedule a consultation, you can also visit our Contact page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Still have questions?

We're here to help. Reach out to discuss your project and learn how WTheory can drive growth for your business.

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