Five points to consider when hiring a web designer

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FIVE THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A WEB DESIGNER

Transcript of Five points to consider when hiring a web designer

FIVE THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A WEB DESIGNER

Do I really need to hire a web designer…maybe

• Do you actually need to hire someone? • Does your website need to have a one-of-a-kind design? Is it

complex?• Pre-made templates for a variety of types of sites can be

found through many hosting companies.

I just have no technical skills…help

• Almost every project in our lives needs a web presence. Maybe you want to promote your business. Or your charity. Or your kids photos.

• Your site is complex enough to require someone with programming knowledge…but where to start?

Step 1. How do I know what I really want?

• Answer these questions to narrow down your options:

– What kinds of information do you want on the site?

– How big do you think your site will be?

– Who are your users? Which operating systems and browsers are they using?

– Will your site require regular updates? Would you like to make changes yourself or will you require ongoing support?

– Will you be selling online and need secure payment?

– Will you need a database to store and retrieve information?

– Do you want search engines to send traffic to your site?

– When do you need the job done?

– What is your budget? Remember to take into account fees for hosting, SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates, shopping cart solutions, and photo royalties.

Step 2. But everyone calls themselves a web designer!

• The obvious first question in choosing a web designer is do you like their website:– Is it easy to find information? Is the site navigation clear?– Are the pages accessible (no broken links)?– Are the pages and overall design consistent?– Is there a contact page and site map that are easily found?– Is there enough relevant information on the site (e.g.,

about the company, what they do, the people, policies, etc.)?

– How is the formatting (e.g., alignment, use of headings)?– Do the pages load fast?– Is there a portfolio?– Does the site discuss the designer's technical background?– Are page titles appropriate and informative?

Step 3: But are they right for me? Checking Capabilities

• Check their portfolio. If you see sites that you really like, make sure the employees who built those sites are still available.

• The designer should follow current web standards so that your site isn’t outdated when its launched.

• Has the team created sites for other businesses in your industry? Were they able to reflect the business properly?

• A graphic designer is not a web designer. Using web creation software such as Dreamweaver does not make a web designer.

• General technical competence in basic programming languages and graphic software (e.g., Photoshop).

• Knowledge of when and how to implement multimedia content. Few experiences turn off a visitor to your site faster than excessive of Flash, like an animated splash page.

Step 4: Are they as good as they seem?

• Once you have a shortlist of three to five designers conduct interviews. Some questions to begin with are:

– What are the steps in the design process?

– How long will it take?

– What will I need to provide?

– Will you be doing the work yourself?

– What kind of tech support do you offer?

• Get an estimate in writing that includes both a detailed price and key milestone dates.

• Contact their references - reading the online portfolio is not enough! Talk to previous clients and ask about the web designer’s level of helpfulness, ability to meet deadlines, and responsiveness.

Step 5: Establishing a working relationship

• Once you have selected a web designer, develop a written contract that includes:

– A detailed description of the work, including number of web pages, features, and functionality.

– Timing, including check-in points, project milestones and a final completion date.

– Specific dates for payments. The final payment shouldn’t be due until your web site is completed.

• Ensure that you are clear on all other terms such as copyright (who owns the site design and any graphics) and updates/maintenance.