I recently started working with a new web developer, James Barnes from Crux Digital based in Johannesburg. James created a website for one of my clients, The Murder Mystery Guide, where we wanted a custom-built layout to suit the marketing and content needs of the site. It also had a cost calculator plugin that James had to research, having never dealt with one before.

My pleasant experience working with James made me realise there are some questions you need to ask in your interview with a new web designer BEFORE you commit to a job. The list below should help with making that decision.

If I could add to James’s list below, it would be responsiveness and after-sale service. I get driven mad by web designers who don’t respond timeously, as there’s usually a crisis to attend to and a long wait on a reply potentially can have devastating ramifications on a business.

Take a look at James’s recommendations below and let me know in the comments section if you have more points to add!

 

Yours in marketing,

 

Lisa

 

Finding a qualified web designer who is compatible with your business can be challenging. Every business is different and it is important to find someone who understands your business’s unique needs and successfully direct your business toward growth.

1. Value for money

Budget is an important factor for anyone to consider when looking for a web designer. Pricing for websites can vary quite substantially and it can be difficult to know exactly how much to spend on a website.  With web design, you get what you pay for. Sure, you might be able to get someone to make a website for you for a “bargain” price, but at what cost? It is important to always be aware of the full extent of the services and any additional value-added services the web designer might provide such as content optimization for SEO or integrated website security features.

2. User-centred design

Having a clear understanding of how your users think and their goals is an essential aspect of building a successful website. User-centred design puts the user at the focus of each stage of the design process from the initial planning and content writing through to the website layout structure and design. User-centred design focuses on improving the overall user experience through improving the accessibility, usability and legibility of the website.

3. Longevity & scalable design

Your website should adapt as your business grows. Having a website with a flexible and scalable design will ensure that your website will stand the test of time. Web design is a dynamic form of media and can change over time. It is important to have a flexible framework and platform to build your website. Choosing the wrong web builder early on in development or not considering or planning for future business goals or services offerings can lead you to having to rebuild large sections of your website or in some cases even require a complete website revamp.

4. A strong portfolio

It can be risky to hire a web designer with little experience. Ideally, you should seek out a web designer with a detailed portfolio of work covering a variety of business industries.

The best way to evaluate the experience level of a web designer is by viewing their past work. Each web designer has a unique approach to design and the best way to determine the effectiveness of their workflow is by seeing the result and giving some of their past websites a try for yourself.

5. Up to date with technology & design trends

Technology is constantly evolving so it is vital to find a web designer who can stay informed and keep up to date with the everchanging world of tech and web design. Every year new features, themes and plugin choices become available while others become obsolete. Many web designers offer ongoing maintenance to keep your website and plugins up to date and offer site backups to ensure the safety of your website and data. Having out of date plugins or themes on your website can also result in security vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit so maintenance is also a good way to keep your website safe and secure.

 

Do you need a reliable website designer to help? Crux Digital offer affordable web design & online marketing services to help get your small business or start-up off the ground.

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