How to Choose a Web Design Company
Author: Cindy Kelly
The Internet is full of web design companies pleading for your business. They
all look great! Not sure which company to select? By following these simple
steps, you'll be able to select the perfect designer for your business.
1. The search for a web
designer. Unless you really feel that face-to-face
meetings are a priority, there is really no reason why you can't
hire a web designer outside your local area. Most people turn to
search engines on the internet for their search.
2. The designer's portfolio. Once you stumble on a website
that catches your interest, look for samples of their work. Freelancer or business,
anyone who claims to be a web designer has design portfolio. Because taste is
a personal choice, it's possible you won't "like" all of the examples
in the designer’s portfolio. But even if you don't like the particular
colors or theme they used for a particular client, look further into the design.
Ask yourself these questions:
Are there designs clean and crisp?
Does the overall design have a professional appearance?
Is the navigation clear and easy to use?
How Is their language, grammar and spelling usage?
3. Check references. If you think the designer can do a good
job for you, check their references. You'll find contact information for past
clients in the designer's portfolio. They can give you their real life experience
with the design company.
4. Selecting a web designer.
If you’re comfortable with the references and like the examples in the
portfolio contact the design company to discuss the requirements of your project.
By corresponding with the designer via email of telephone, you'll learn a lot
about how responsive and flexible they are. If you're working with a timeline
and/or a budget, explain this and be sure they can accommodate your needs. Keep
in mind that not every web design company has the capabilities to do what you
need. Be sure to make your requirements clear up front so you don't get stuck
with extra charges or delays.
5. Getting pricing for your website. Request web
design quotes from your favorite companies. Make sure bids are
comparable. One company may include website maintenance in the package and one
may not. Some of these "extras" can be very valuable. Check item by
item to be sure you know what you’re paying for.
6. Partnership. Engaging with a web design company should be
a partnership. Let them work for you by offering useful information about your
business and the image you want to portray. Participation on your part will
contribute to an overall successful design that will meet or exceed your expectations.
Even though some of these steps seem obvious, it’s often easy
to overlook the simplest things when we have a lot to do. We hope
these steps will help you on your quest to find the perfect web
design company.
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