Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working with HIVE Forma and building systems that scale.
General Questions
Learn about HIVE Forma, what we do, and who we work with
We architect the digital infrastructure that keeps your business running smoothly. We specialize in:
- CRM Selection & Implementation - Finding and setting up the right client management system
- Workflow Automation - Connecting your tools and eliminating repetitive tasks
- Website Design & Integration - Beautiful sites that connect with your systems
- Tech Infrastructure Setup - Email, domains, hosting, and technical foundations
We don't just build websites—we create complete digital ecosystems where everything works together.
Most agencies either do web design or systems work. We do both, which means your website isn't just pretty—it's integrated with your CRM, automated workflows, and entire business operation.
We also believe systems should strengthen relationships, not replace them. We architect technology that frees you up to focus on people, not processes.
Plus, we prioritize architecture over assembly. We get you launched quickly with solid foundations, then iterate based on real feedback.
"Forma" is Latin for "to form, to shape, to design"—which perfectly captures what we do. We form digital systems, shape workflows, and design infrastructure that supports growth.
It also reflects our philosophy: form follows function. We build systems that work beautifully because they're architected around your actual needs, not generic templates.
Just like bees build interconnected systems, we help businesses create infrastructure that works in harmony.
We specialize in working with:
- Solopreneurs & small teams who need professional systems without enterprise complexity
- Growing businesses outgrowing spreadsheets and manual processes
- Creative studios & service businesses that need organized client management
Our ideal clients value relationships, want systems that actually work, and are ready to invest in their infrastructure.
Services & Process
How we work, timelines, and what to expect
Most projects launch within 2-8 weeks depending on scope:
- CRM Implementation: 4-6 weeks
- Workflow Automation: 2-4 weeks
- Website Design: 4-6 weeks
- Complete Infrastructure: 6-8 weeks
We follow a "build once, scale forever" philosophy—you'll be live quickly with solid architecture, then we refine based on real feedback.
Websites: Squarespace and Webflow primarily, with custom code for advanced features
CRMs: HoneyBook, Dubsado, Airtable, Monday.com—we're platform-agnostic and recommend what fits your workflow
Email: Google Workspace
Automation: Zapier, Make, native platform integrations
We choose platforms based on your needs, not what we prefer to build.
Yes! We offer flexible monthly care plans starting at $500/month that include:
- System maintenance & updates
- System health monitoring
- Priority email or Slack support
- Regular strategy check-ins
- Proactive improvements
We build relationships, not just projects—so we're here for the long haul.
Absolutely! We can integrate with, improve, or migrate from existing systems. Whether you need:
- CRM integration with your current website
- Automation added to existing tools
- Migration to better platforms
- Optimization of what you already have
We meet you where you are and build from there.
No—and here's why that's better for you:
Custom CRMs cost $50K-$200K+ to build and even more to maintain. Instead, we help you select and implement proven platforms (HoneyBook, Dubsado, etc.) that fit your workflow perfectly.
This approach saves you money, gets you launched faster, and gives you a tool with ongoing support and updates.
To kick off a project, we'll need:
- Discovery call: 30-60 minutes to understand your business
- Brand assets: Logo, colors, fonts (we can help if you don't have these)
- Content: Text and images for your website/systems
- Access: Login credentials for tools we're integrating
- Time: Availability for check-ins and feedback
We guide you through each step and make it as easy as possible.
Pricing & Investment
Clear pricing information and what to expect
Most clients invest $6,500-$15,000 for complete digital infrastructure (website + CRM + automation). Individual services start at:
- CRM Implementation: Starting at $3,500
- Workflow Automation: Starting at $2,500
- Website Design: Starting at $4,000
- Tech Infrastructure: Starting at $2,000
We provide detailed proposals after your discovery call so you know exactly what you're getting—no surprises.
Yes! We typically structure payments as:
- 50% deposit to begin work
- 50% upon completion
For larger projects, we can split into thirds or create custom payment schedules that work for your cash flow.
Yes, and we're transparent about them upfront:
- Website hosting: $200-$500/year (Squarespace/Webflow)
- CRM subscription: $20-$100/month depending on platform
- Email (Google Workspace): $6/user/month
- Domain registration: $10-$20/year
- Automation tools: $20-$100/month if needed
We help you choose platforms that fit your budget and scale with growth.
All projects include 30 days of post-launch adjustments for minor tweaks and refinements.
After that, you can:
- Purchase hourly support as needed
- Sign up for a monthly care plan (starting at $500/month)
- Book a new project for major changes
- Manage updates yourself with our training
Several factors influence final pricing:
- Complexity: Number of pages, features, and integrations
- Customization: Custom design vs. template-based builds
- Data migration: Moving from existing systems adds time
- Automation scope: Number of workflows and tools to connect
- Timeline: Rush projects may require additional resources
We'll discuss all factors during your discovery call and provide accurate estimates.
Working Together
Collaboration, communication, and what to expect
As involved as you want! Some clients prefer hands-off, others want input on every decision.
At minimum, you'll need to:
- Attend 2-3 check-in calls during the project
- Review and approve major deliverables
- Provide content and feedback when requested
We handle everything else and keep you updated throughout.
Absolutely! Every project includes comprehensive training:
- Live training sessions (recorded for reference)
- Documentation and step-by-step guides
- Video tutorials for common tasks
- Ongoing support to answer questions
Our goal is to empower you, not create dependency.
That's completely normal—and it's what discovery calls are for!
We'll ask questions about:
- Current pain points and bottlenecks
- What takes too much time manually
- What's preventing you from scaling
- Your goals for the next 12-24 months
Then we'll recommend specific solutions that fit your needs and budget—no tech jargon, just clear recommendations.
Perfect! That's exactly why we exist.
You don't need to understand technology—that's our job. We handle all the technical setup, configuration, and complex details. Then we train you to manage the day-to-day yourself.
No coding required. No complexity. Just systems that work.
Technical Questions
Security, ownership, and technical details
Yes, 100%. Upon final payment, you own:
- Your website and all its content
- All design files and assets
- Access to all platforms and accounts
- Complete control over your systems
You're never locked into working with us—though we hope you'll want to!
Security is built into everything we do:
- SSL certificates on all websites (HTTPS)
- Two-factor authentication on critical accounts
- Regular security updates and monitoring
- Secure password management
- Privacy-first approach to data handling
We also ensure compliance with relevant regulations based on your industry.
Systems need maintenance—platforms update, integrations change, and issues occasionally arise.
If you're on a care plan, we proactively monitor and fix issues before they impact you.
If you're not on a retainer:
- Contact us for urgent support (we respond within 24 hours)
- Purchase hourly support as needed
- Sign up for ongoing care for peace of mind
We don't abandon clients after launch—we're here for the long haul.
Yes! We handle data migration as part of implementation:
- Exporting data from old systems
- Cleaning and organizing data
- Importing into new platforms
- Testing to ensure accuracy
- Verification before going live
We make transitions smooth and minimize disruption to your operations.
Still Have Questions?
Let's talk! Schedule a free 30-minute discovery call to discuss your specific needs and see if we're a good fit.
— Or —
Send Us a Message