How To Choose A Web Designer

How To Choose A Website Designer

Written by Blair Keen, director of Additive Solutions Limited - a website design and e-Business Consultancy based in Norwich, UK.
www.additivesolutions.co.uk


Congratulations! If you're reading this article, then it means you're serious about developing a website that will represent, promote, and grow your business online. It also shows that you believe in thoroughly researching your business decisions. So far, we match.

I have written this article to help you identify exactly what you should be looking for, from a business perspective, when choosing a website designer. You will not find lists of statistics or piles of unintelligible geek speak here. Instead, I will focus on the pure business essentials required to make your new online enterprise successful and enjoyable.

Can they do the job?
Ultimately this question means - will this designer produce the business result I am hoping for? After all, that's the whole point isn't it? To answer this question, you must consider the following points:

• Does this designer have a portfolio of professional websites that represent the sort of quality I need for my own online business?
• Does the designer think commercially? Do they understand how important value for money is to me, and will they deliver the results I need within my budget?
• Can they handle everything I need from brand development through to the marketing and promotion of my website?
• Will they look after the maintenance, administration, and ongoing development of my website for me, or will they close the door and make me fend for myself?
• Do they understand the science of user behaviour and interaction online and how to attract and maintain the attention of my customers?
• Do they understand the importance of information design and presentation to communicate effectively with an online audience?

Will I like the way they do it?
Sometimes the ends don't justify the means. Personally I believe it's important to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. I believe that people should be able to reflect on a result and surmise that it was a positive experience that exceeded expectations. To make these human needs possible, you should consider the following personal qualities:

• Do I like this designer and will I enjoy working with them?
• Do I feel like they understand and respect my needs?
• Do they promote effective communication by engaging with me and listening to my ideas?
• Do they truly care about the success of my business, and will they proactively help me to develop my ideas for the future?

I know, there's a lot to consider. My best advice is to choose a designer that is passionate about their work, and excited about what they can do for you and your business.

It shouldn't come as a surprise that I believe myself to be such a designer! I provide a total service designed to turn your business ideas into an effective website that generates results. My services include:

• E-Business Consultancy and Planning
• Website Performance Assessments
• Website Design
• Website Management
• Search Engine Marketing
• Display Advertising
• Search Engine Optimised Copywriting
• Brand Development

I also offer free Website Audits and free e-Business Consultations to help you discover the amazing effect a well designed website could have on your business.

Website design, hosting, and management is actually very straight forward once you understand it. The best way to learn more is to talk to someone who is able to relate facts in a language that you understand. For an informal chat, simply call or email:


01603 762 232
blair.keen@additivesolutions.co.uk


p.s. Your website has the potential to develop your business beyond your wildest dreams. Realising this potential however, will only be achieved by making that first step and talking to a professional.