So you're thinking about taking the plunge and investing in a website for your business. Regardless of how and where you get your website developed there are those important key things to think about. Coming from a design background and working over ten years in the industry, I'd love to give you some of the handy information and inside knowledge I've picked up over that time.
In this post we'll overview one of the many important things you'll come across when working with your website developer. Concept design. Without getting too technical, initially you'll want to ensure your designer and processes are set up to allow you to view pre-visioned concepts of how your site will look before any costly production development. Usually this consists of a simple still image which depicts general key elements that are very much universal regardless of what your website is for. These include (but not limited to) navigation areas, content areas, footer information and a feature of some form; be it a flash banner, a very eye grabbing photo, or a special or event - the list goes on!
The important thing is to have some knowledge of how your site will look and feel before you're sitting down at the end of a costly development cycle. Even more importantly it allows you to work with your designer to ensure your website isn't just someone else's vision - it's yours. I can't tell you the amount of clients I've sat down with who have explained their 'anti-climax' when dealing with developers that promise the world but then don't follow through. Having a website for your business isn't just a groovy tech-tool, think of it (especially if you're a retailer), as your store front. Remember the care and effort you put in to get it just the way you want? The same should be said for the look of your website. Your designer will gladly work with you during the process ensuring your expectations are met, ensuring your site is one to be remembered!
Next week, I'll fill you in on some of the big secrets to keep your site looking as professional as possible. Stay tuned!