Website Planning Part III: Finding a (good) web designer

By
Angie Herrera

So now that you've thought about the objective of your site, and you've set a budget, it's time to start looking for the right website designer. While this may seem like a daunting task, it doesn't have to be. In fact, just being prepared for what you want your site to accomplish will help you make the decision. The best place to begin your search is by asking friends, family and colleagues. But it shouldn't be the only resource. You should also do your own search. That way, you'll have a better chance of finding a designer or studio that best fits you and your needs. And unless you are really set against working by phone and/or email, don't rule out designers who aren't in your general area. Instead, consider the quality of their work over their location.

Where to start

When you've got a good list of potential designers, it's time to narrow it down to those you want to get quotes from. So where do you start? Easy. Their website. But before you even take a look at their online portfolio, look at their site. Do you like it overall? Is it easy to use and navigate through? How do they present themselves through their site? If by visiting their site you're put off by one or all of these things, they just might not be the right designer for you. But if overall, they have a great site, it's time to check out the goods...

The Portfolio

While looking through a web designer's portfolio, don't just go over it and determine if their work is "cool." Engaging design is important, true. But is the end-result appropriate? For instance, a website aimed at kids should be very different from a site that's aimed at investors in a Fortune 500 company.

Knowledge, experience and/or education

While a degree in design isn't the thing you should base your decision on, it does help. However, if a designer you like doesn't have a degree in design, it shouldn't matter much so long as they have the experience and skills it takes to create the site you need. Their portfolio should tell you that much. However, be cautious of those who claim to be web designers and are actually web programmers. There's a difference, generally speaking, and it's rare to find the hybrid type who is good at both. A programmer may be superb at making a site work very well and effectively, but they may not be able to design the site so it visually communicates your message. Ideally, you'll want a design studio that can provide both.

Web Designer vs. Web Designer

Similar to the web programmer/web designer point above, also be aware of the web designer who is really a print designer with web design software. While they may be top-notch at creating ads, brochures and logos, designing for the Web isn't the same. Ask your potential designer what process they have for developing a website. Do they provide programming? Database creation? Dynamic sites? Designing for the Web requires different technical skills and knowledge that should complement design skills.

Marketing Savvy

If your site is meant to carry out and meet a business goal, having a "cool" site isn't enough. The designer you choose should have a strong enough marketing sense to clearly identify strategies to reach both, your business goal and your site's overall objective. Good design isn't just decoration and looking good; it communicates and inspires action.

Business skills and professionalism

Finally, you'll want to work with someone who is more than just good at what they do. You even want someone that is more than professional. The designer you choose should not only be friendly and courteous, but should also keeps the details of your project in mind at all times and makes good, smart use of your time (and money). So when searching for a web designer, ask them what kind of support they offer. How do they handle questions weeks, months after the site has launched? Do they still do work for past clients? Basically, you'll want a web designer that you can count on for as long as possible, rather than the "design and ditch" type (especially for those unforeseen issues).