Choosing a Web Designer

If you need a website building for your business or product then you have two options:

• Build it yourself
• Hire a Web Design Agency to design and build it for you

Most Internet Service Providers now offer both free web space and free web templates to new customers and in some situations you may be tempted to try and design your website yourself. However, in most situations, the Do It Yourself route is a mistake because although the tools of webdesign are readily available to almost anyone, the craft and the skills that an experienced Web Designer has developed over time are not.

The businesses that opt for the DIY Web Design route are frequently dissuaded from hiring a professional web designer because of the often technical, jargon-filled skillsets that web designers possess and claim to be able to bring to your new website.

So, if you don’t know your .fla from your elbow and think that CSS belongs in your medicine cabinet along with the TCP, here’s a quick guide to choosing a web designer:

Price

Price is important but it isn’t the most important aspect of Web Design. Remember, you get what you pay for. The trick here is to get a quote for the work based on a detailed brief and to ensure the web designer sticks to their quote.

A detailed brief

Ensure you have a good idea of what you need and what will be delivered. Most Web Designers offer a free consultation to help you narrow down your requirements.

A Portfolio

Not crucial, but if you find a Web Designer who has a large portfolio of work make sure you look through it. Not only will this give you an indication of the designer’s skills but it will also help to inspire you about your new site design; feel free to crib ideas!

Local & Contactable

Often an overlooked criteria, being able to speak to your designer for a catchup (at least once per week) is an almost essential part of a healthy working relationship. Many designers prefer email contact – which is just as acceptable providing they come back quickly to any questions you raise.

Skillset

This is probably the most tricky aspect of all especially if you are from a non-technical background. There are many aspects to consider but the fundamentals are:

• You want a Search Engine Friendly Website that takes into consideration the site architecture and content so it is well received by Search Engines
• You will want the site to load quickly so the designer will want to keep most of the filesizes small
• You want an accessible website that meets the Disabilites Discrimination Act
• You want your site to look good so your designer should help you achieve a visually pleasing site that inline with your brand

Payment

Be prepared to pay a deposit up front but be sure to hold a sizeable amount of the total price back until the project is completed. This will allow you to stay in control of the working relationship.

There are many more things you might consider when choosing a web designer but this article should help you feel more confident when setting off. We know it can be a internet minefield out there!

Speak to us about website design: 0845 6588 373

More about Web Design and Websites

• Web Design Manchester
• Website Hosting
• Choosing a Web Designer
• CSS3
• Why Every Business Should have a Website

Articles in this series

• Choosing a PPC Agency
• Choosing an SEO Agency
• Choosing a Web Designer
• Choosing a Graphic Designer