5 Critical Things You MUST Ask Your Web designer

Web design is big business. Every company out there seems to need a website.

At Jontus Media we are often approached by independent consultants looking to develop their web-presence. Either they already have an existing website or are looking to invest some of their precious marketing budget in a new site.

When new clients approach us we always get them to complete a detailed form that, amongst other things, asks them to define their business goals, target audience, and key value proposition(s). Our aim is to understand the client’s needs as much as possible so we can tailor the work to their specific needs. We then discuss this with the client and outline in writing exactly what we will deliver.

Recently there have been a spat of approaches from small businesses with an existing website looking to make the transition from a site that a friend (amateur) has done or they’ve run into problems with their previous designer.

A Lack of Understanding

One of the problems we face is that clients don’t always understand the amount of work that goes into developing a successful web presence. Because a friend or family member has created something that they thought worked quite well, they get a shock when we identify a stack of weaknesses when we audit the site prior to making a bid for the work.

Often we come across problems with SEO, a lack of back-up facilities as well as more specific design issues relating to conversion.

It amazes me just how many consultants have no idea, in particular, about Search Engine Optimization or how it’s necessary to back up a website.

Personally, I believe it’s a designer’s or agency’s duty to address these issues from the outset. What goes on under the graphic interface of a webpage is just as important. Google doesn’t distinguish between an ugly design or an outstanding one; but it does reward good code.

So in this week’s podcast I talk about 5 critical things to discuss with a prospective web designer – particularly if you’re a solo entrepreneur or consultant:

• Business goals
• Conversion strategies
• SEO
• Back-ups, performance optimization
• Google Analytics (data)

Resources mentioned:

• Thesis WordPress Theme
• Genesis WordPress Framework
• Avinash Kaushik – Web Analytics 2.0

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