With the advent of the Internet, every business needs to have a web presence in order to be successful. A web designer who is talented can make your website an effective marketing tool that not only advertises your business but also helps you get more sales. A professional web designer can help you design a website which meets your business requirements. From the theme of website to positioning of your logo, everything will be done as per your needs.
Before you hire a web designer, be clear in your mind as to what you need. For this you can browse online and check a few competitor sites and make notes of what you like and don't like. Also, make note of technical specifications, such as any specific functionalities or forms you need, will it be an ecommerce website, do you need CMS and other key aspects. This homework at your end will help you discuss the web design project with the web designer in a clear way. A designer will be able to design a website exactly as per your needs only when you convey your thoughts clearly to him.
Next, you can ask friends or acquaintances, if they know of any professional and reliable designer who is affordable as well. You can also do online research for web designing companies. If you really need a design that will help you establish a powerful web presence and enhance your branding, you must hire the services of a company rather than a freelance designer. Not that all freelance web designers are sloppy, but companies are more accountable and professional. They have seasoned website design professionals with extensive experience.
Do take a look at the web design portfolio to have an idea of what the designer or design company is capable of. The old saying 'First impression is the last impression.' applies even to your website. Your site therefore should have a nice visual and aesthetic appeal and a good web designer will help you in achieving that. While taking a look at the portfolio of a designer, if you like the designs, you can shortlist him. You must check the portfolio of at least three designers before hiring one.
Just the look of the site is not enough. Apart from visual appeal, there are many key aspects that need to be followed. The site should be well developed in terms of its functional aspect. Also, ask if the designer is aware of design principles, usability aspects and SEO-friendly web design standards. All these aspects are very important to ensure that your website gets top rankings, traffic and more business. An expert web designer will surely be aware of all of these.
All designers provide revisions as part of the project, but it is always better to ask beforehand. If the designer does not willing to do a few rounds of revisions then you must surely think twice before hiring him.
Vasilescu Cristian is performing as creative web designer who specializes in custom website and in all kind of CMS.
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1873246_4.html