| Website Design: Alternatives |
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Three avenues exist for building a web site: the hiring of a professional web site designer, the use of web site building tools from a domain name registrar or hosting provider or the purchase of a software package such as Microsoft FrontPage. All three alternatives should be considered relative to goals, budget and individual skill base. When a Professional Web Designer is used, a polished image is more likely achieved that is also consistent with the company?s other marketing materials. A uniform image is particularly important when prospective customers are large businesses or professionals, and future advertising is anticipated. An experienced designer should also provide or lead to other web related services such as content updating, search engine optimization and ecommerce that may be eventually needed. When working with a designer the design of the site is often referred to as the “look and feel” which is the interplay between the graphics and the site navigation. During the initial discussions about the site design, bring samples of competitors? sites, note site features that are important, and show samples of existing or planned marketing material?all of which may influence the “look and feel” the designer may propose. The initial “look and feel” may be shown as a static graphic which once approved, will then have HTML, content, and any special effects or database driven features added. Unless an ad agency or marketing firm is designing the site, the customer is responsible for site content. It is important that a written proposal be obtained that includes a cost for each step of the site design and payment schedule. A second quote from another designer is very helpful, particularly if a very ambitious site design is being considered. If the designer has not been referred, request a couple of references from the designer and examples of work that shows features similar to the site being contemplated. A confidentiality agreement may also be requested if there is proprietary material that is to be kept from public knowledge. If time can be allocated for web design that does not divert focus from more important start up challenges, the use of an on line web service or packaged software are reasonable alternatives---given the individual?s appropriate skill base. Keep in mind that the end product---the web site--must have the quality appropriate to the business? customer base. Some training is recommended prior to using programs such as Microsoft FrontPage or Macromedia DreamWeaver, as learning the software may be too ambitious?especially simultaneous with a business startup. Once mastered, however, these skills allow greater control over site maintenance. Web Design Services are now offered by most hosting providers and domain name registrars and permit the creation of a site using templates. Most services offer a number of packages with the cost relative to the number of pages within the site and other features or services such as email etc. Most basic packages include creation of a one page site, an email address, and... |
Having a web site for a business is as basic a requirement today as a business card or phone listing. Customers view a web site to judge a business? creditability and legitimacy, therefore, a key decision for a new business owner is the appropriate design for their site.
