Jul 07 2010
If finding the right design agency, whether here in Portland or elsewhere, isn't just about the costs, how is one supposed to decide? That's a question a lot of folks find themselves asking. While there are, I'm sure, plenty of answers, I've rounded up what I consider the top 5 things to look at when deciding which web designer/developer to work with. (PS - If all you're concerned about is price, this article is not for you.)
1. Portfolio
Okay, so this is an obvious one, but there are still folks who skip over this for a number of reasons, but usually because they're looking for the lowest price. Aside from that being a terrible way to determine who to hire, no matter what the final cost, if the web design company you hire doesn't work in a particular style you're looking for, chances are, you're not going to be satisfied.
Further, a good portfolio will have more than just a few screenshots. Even a quick synopsis on what the goals and/or challenges of the project were is better than just images. That will give you insight on how the web design agency tackled a particular problem.
2. Testimonials
Testimonials can be hit or miss, but they're still good to look at. They can give you a general idea of what it might be like to work with a particular design studio. Of course, for better or worse, not every web designer has testimonials visible on their website. (Personally, I believe they should.) But chances are that they do have them available, so you should ask. If they don't, you may want to ask why and possibly consider a different agency.
3. Blog
Not all web design agencies or independent designers have blogs. And that's okay. But if they do, read through some entries. Doing so will give you some insight on how they work, how they think, what they think about and more. Are they giving tips on their blog or just posting code tidbits for fellow developers? Neither of those examples is necessarily make or break, but it should tell you something. If anything, their blog will help you get to know them a bit better.
4. Facebook & Twitter
If a design studio has a Facebook page or a Twitter acount, you should take a peek. If nothing more, it will serve as a way to see what they post about and how they interact with those in their industry and with their clients. What they post also could be influential.
5. Process
Finally, don't forget to ask about process; what the project will entail from start to finish. Most designers (and agencies especially) will have this down pat. That means they're proactive in how they work and get your web project completed, rather than being reactive to getting hired and throwing something together. It goes along the lines of the old adage, "Failing to plan is planning to fail."
How about you? Do you have any other things you look at when choosing a design studio?