How to Choose a Web Design Company
On the Internet today, there are many people who call themselves web designers and web design companies. Some people do it for fun, as a hobby, or part-time. Web designers who design full-time are the way to go. Someone who does web design part-time tends not to take it as seriously as someone who does it for a living. There are also people who do web design, who have no formal training. Make sure your web designer has some formal training from a recognized school. People who are self-taught, although I applaud them for doing it, have relied on the Internet for all their information, and as you know information on the Internet can be inaccurate.
Relevant Experience
The web design company you choose for your project should have relevant experience. If you would like them to design an e-commerce website, it is best to choose a web designer who has e-commerce websites in their portfolio. Your web design company should be ready to submit a proposal for your website project along with a contract. Beware of companies who don’t give you a formal contract. The contract should outline exactly what the web designer will do and how long it will take, the price, and what you have agreed to supply. A formal contract is the best way to avoid disagreements between the web designer and you. Make sure your contract outlines every possible problem that can happen.
Different types of websites
There are different types of websites such as static HTML (brochure type), e-commerce (with a shopping cart), database, Flash, and a website with your own content management system. All of these must come into perspective when you are looking for a web design company. For example, if you are looking for a fully interactive Flash website you better make sure that the web design company you choose has done many Flash websites. There is a difference between companies who can do Flash headers for a standard HTML site and web designers who can create a full flash website. Your best bet when choosing a web design company is to have a face-to-face meeting when discuss what it is you would like to have your website look like, also some sketches and some addresses of websites that you like. This gives the web design company the chance to fully understand what you are looking for and a better chance to give you an accurate proposal.
Things to take into consideration
Does the web design company have an update package? You must know that after your website has been created, from time to time you will require updates. Maybe they will be small maybe not. If the web design company you are choosing does not have an update package, you should inquire about the price of updates after the initial design. You should take the price of updates into consideration before you begin the design process. Make sure the web design company or web designer you choose sets realistic goals for the timeline. Usually, if it sounds too good to be true then it is.
Many web designers have their own personal style. For example, my personal style is clean and bright colors. Some web design companies love Flash and always build Flash websites. This would not be ideal if you are looking for an extremely search engine-friendly website.
You would also have to consider guarantees. Does your potential web design company offer a guarantee? Most web design companies do not. So when you find one who does, you can know that they feel very confident in their capabilities. Another thing to consider is: Does the web design company display a phone number that they can be contacted at? Sometimes as a client, you would like to speak with someone, not just get a reply to an e-mail the next day.
How to find a web design company
There are a few ways to find web design companies in your area. One way is to search the web for: “Vancouver web design” or “Sarasota Web design”, obviously depending on the city closest to you. You could also search the Yellow pages for web design companies. Most web design companies who can afford to advertise there have already built a pretty go reputation and have been in business for a while.
Another option is to search the web and when you see a website you really like, check for a link on the bottom of the page or on a contact page.
In conclusion, selecting the right web design company is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success of your online presence. As the internet is flooded with individuals and part-time hobbyists claiming to be web designers, it becomes imperative to prioritize professionals who dedicate themselves full-time to the craft. Formal training from recognized schools adds credibility to a designer’s skills, ensuring a higher level of expertise. Beyond qualifications, experience tailored to your specific needs is paramount. Whether it’s an e-commerce site, a Flash-based platform, or a content management system, the chosen web design company should demonstrate a proven track record in creating similar websites.
A formal contract detailing project scope, timelines, costs, and responsibilities serves as a crucial safeguard against potential disagreements. Additionally, the consideration of an update package is essential, as websites inevitably require maintenance and enhancements over time. Realistic timelines and clear communication are key factors in ensuring a successful collaboration. While personal design styles may vary, it’s crucial to align your preferences with the capabilities of the chosen company, especially if search engine optimization is a priority.
In the quest to find a suitable web design company, various avenues, such as online searches, Yellow Pages, or referrals from websites you admire, can be explored. Checking for a displayed phone number indicates a commitment to direct communication, adding a human touch to the business relationship. Ultimately, a web design company that offers guarantees demonstrates confidence in their abilities, providing an extra layer of assurance for your investment. By carefully considering these factors, you can embark on a collaborative journey with a web design partner who not only meets your immediate needs but also contributes to the long-term success of your online presence.
