Finding the right Web Designer

So you have read this and you think it is time to have a web site developed. Now how do you choose a web designer? When there is such a difference in price, the most general way to look at it is that cheapest is not always the best. Make sure you sit down and see what they are offering, and check out their portfolio, and any additional costs you might be responsible for in the near future.

Here are a few tips on what you might like to assess:

Experience - This might encompass their knowledge of your industry, the skills they have developed, or the number of previous web sites they have developed.

Ability - Has the developer demonstrated an ability to complete the complexity of your site? Remember, the best indicator of future performance is past performance.

Accessibility - Is the developer accessible to you to discuss strategy, plan the site, or even answer questions? Physical closeness often provides a sense of increased accessibility.

‘Fit’ - By ‘fit’ I mean do you feel comfortable with the developer and do they have the same sort of values in business as you?

Referrals - Ask for at least three. If there is any hesitation or delay in getting the names and numbers of happy customers, then that’s a red flag. Contact them and question their experience and the success of the site and the developer in meeting their expectations.

Assess the input - Aside from what you identify what you require, does the developer provide some suggestion based on his/her previous experience and expertise?

Price - There is such a range of variables that come into play here that it would be pointless to even start a list. Compare the various quotes you receive and make a judgment call on the best value for money. Suggest a guarantee to your developer. What’s the reaction?

Here are some Additional Web Site considerations.