As you search for a web designer (or website design agency), you’ll probably find it challenging to locate one that is perfect for what you need.
Since your company is one-of-a-kind, you’ll need a one-of-a-kind web designer to build a spectacular online presence for your brand.
To make the process easier on you, here are a couple things you should look for in a web designer. As you evaluate each one according to these five points, I’m sure you’ll see who stands out from the rest.
1. Industry/web design experience
You should definitely look for a web designer who is familiar with your industry or has experience designing websites for a wide range of industries.
Therefore, this should be the first point you consider.
You can immediately cut down your list significantly by eliminating those without industry experience.
Don’t be too quick, though – a great web designer for you doesn’t necessarily have to have years of work in the industry. Even a project or two with a similar business may do just fine.
If you find your options way too limited, you could take a step back.
The design process may be a little lengthier as more planning and modifying may be needed, but your website will still ultimately come to life.
2. Web design and project costs
This is a pretty basic one. How much does the web designer charge? Prices may be very different depending on things like location, experience, and technical training.
Don’t waste your time considering a designer whose prices are most definitely beyond your budget.
Consider those who are within, or slightly above. Who knows? You may be able to strike a deal. In the end, you want what you pay for.
When speaking with a web design company, make sure their proposal and/or contract lays out exactly what they are charging you for and how much it costs
We make sure our proposals are as straightforward and simple as possible.
For instance, we let them know the costs for both designing and developing their website, prices for hosting and publishing, and the costs for other features like Google Analytics integration, on-site SEO, SSL integration (all of which we include free).
3. Knowledge and strategy for website design projects
Like every industry, all web designers are different.
Some with little or no development experience use website builders like Wix or Squarespace.
Others use content management systems like WordPress or Drupal.
Even if they are using a CMS like WordPress, they may not have extensive knowledge as actual web developers. Make sure you find out if they are using pre-built themes or will be developing your website from scratch.
If the web designer in question is unable to explain what they know or what they plan to do with your site, you may want to opt-out.
If they can clearly explain what they want to do and are able to answer your queries, however, it’s a good sign that they are well-versed in their craft and have the skill needed to build you an awesome website. Look for someone who can tell you what they’ve learned, how they do things, and what goals they set.
Related: 7 Steps to Finding the Right Website Design Company in 2018
4. Web design case studies and portfolio
Though inexperienced web designers occasionally bring amazing websites to life, it’s definitely a long shot.
For the most part, you should opt for experienced designers with portfolios that can show the work they’ve done.
Their portfolio doesn’t have to be fancy and showy.
It may just be a few links or files where you can see websites that they have created for past clients. \
As you take a look, don’t be afraid to ask a designer why they chose that particular style, or why they laid the photos out in that certain way. A great portfolio with beautiful websites is an indicator that the designer has experience and skill to offer.
5. Other creative services offered
A lot of web designers have expanded past web design.
Oftentimes they offer additional services such as content creation, SEO, social media management, and much more. Some of these may be very useful to you.
They may even have packages that you can purchase to build a stronger online presence.
Of course, it’s important to remember that most freelance web designers only do web design. That’s what they excel in and specialize in. However, many web design companies do offer many of these other services. It all depends on what you want.
Are you looking to blow your customers away at first click into your website? Get in touch today so that we can build a customized web design strategy for you!