|
All right, you're convinced
you need a Web site. You've looked at the Internet's
free sites (like Geocities) and decided they're not
right for you. You've done some research and found the
entire HTML coding process involves more time or effort
than you're willing (or able) to provide.
What now?
Face it -- you need a
professional designer.
You're in luck. There
are a growing number of choices in the professional Web
design field.
Some are right in your
community. Check with your Chamber of Commerce or the
yellow pages of your phone book. Ask around. Your
business associates (and competitors) might be able to
refer someone.
You can also spread your
search net farther. There are designers in neighboring
communities, other states, and even across the ocean.
Type "Web designers" into your favorite search engine
and browse through their portfolios. Check with some of
the on-line job/talent listings like
Marketingtool or
Guru. Don't be shy about asking for client testimonials.
I've found that people
new to technology often prefer working with a local
designer -- someone who can walk them step by step
through the process. To each his (or her) own. |
Regardless, here are some
of the things you should be paying attention to:
- Communication
-- Is the designer able to break down complicated
technology for you? Does he (or she) seem eager to
take on your project? Does he (or she) convey an
attitude of professionalism?
- Accessibility
-- When you call, is the designer in? If not,
does it take forever for a callback to come?
- Consultation -- At Jolly Spider, we offer
a free consultation so you can look us over, discuss
your project, and see whether we can work together.
- Contract --
Does the designer offer you a contract spelling out
the terms of your agreement?
- Technical skills
-- If you have special needs in a Web site
(shock wave, database integration, etc.), make sure
the designer is capable of fulfilling them (or has a
subcontractor ready to pitch in).
- Pricing --
Look, you can spend anywhere from $100 to several
thousand dollars getting a Web site up and running.
Paying more doesn't necessarily mean you'll get
more; conversely, paying less means that's just what
you'll get -- less. For a more thorough discussion
on pricing, please see
Pricing or read our Article,
How much will I pay for a Web site?
Read more
Articles |
