Guest author: Miri Bell
Small Business Guide to Choosing a Web Designer
Small Business Guide to Choosing a Web Designer By Miri Bell
Websites can be very effective marketing tools for your business if they are designed correctly. If you are in need of a web designer, whether you currently have a website, or would like one created, there are several factors you will want to consider.
Web design companies can offer an array of services that range from basic design to search engine optimization (SEO), and even web hosting. If your web designer does not offer web hosting services, you will need to find an additional service provider.
Before you contact a web designer, you will want to have a general idea of the type of site you want created, and what you want it to look like. There are three basic types of websites, and each will serve a different purpose. If you are simply looking to create a website to provide information, then you will need the most basic type of website, called an informational site. This type of site is usually the cheapest to create because it is template-based and does not require much customization. Informational sites are not recommended for businesses that wish to create a website that distinguished their brand from other businesses.
Showcase websites are used to highlight a company's products or services, and are very visually stimulating. These flash-based sites are generally more expensive to create because they can be heavily customized to create a unique look for your business.
Ecommerce sites are necessary if you want to sell your products online, and are the most expensive to create because they are highly dynamic, extremely customized, and feature programming that allows for inventory control, consumer purchases, and the ability to manage your products.
Once you know which type of website your business will need, it may be a good idea to browse the Internet to find sites that have a look that is similar to what you will want. This way, when you talk to potential web designers, you will be able to provide them information about the types of graphic design you want, in addition to the type of site you will need, in order to get an accurate quote. Some web designers will charge for the initial consultation, so knowing what you will require can save you money in addition to time.
When choosing between web designers, it is helpful to shop around and speak with several companies so you can find the one the best suits your needs for a price you are happy with. In addition to talking with potential vendors, you can also look at their online portfolio to become more familiar with their work. Talking with previous clients will also give you a feel for they type of work and service a web designer provides.
You will want to have a contract with your web designer that outlines ownership rights to the website, costs and payment schedules, and timelines for which work should be completed. The contract may also include maintenance fees and costs for website development after the site is designed.
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