The internet is a competitive space, so it’s important that your website stands out with a great design. You want your site to be professional and well-polished. We’ve created this guide to help you choose a great web designer.
Now, before we get to choosing your Web Designer, it is important to know the difference between a Web Designer and a Web Developer.
What is the difference between a Web Designer and a Web Developer?
A Web Designer creates the visual concepts for a website such as the layout, design, and graphics. A Web Developer develops the site’s code and uses HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to make the site function properly.
Which type of Web Designer do you need?
There are two types of Web Designers: Freelance Web Designers and In-house Web Designers. Freelance Web Designers are often more affordable than In-house Web Designers. In-house Web Designers are more expensive, but they have extensive experience.
If you need an experienced, reliable designer who can meet your needs, hire an In-house designer. If you need a budget-friendly designer, hire a freelancer with experience.
Here are a few things you need to consider before hiring your Web Designer:
1. What is the web design process?
If you have a current website, designers start by studying your current website for a few days and get to know what your brand is about. Next, they’ll try to understand your target audience and goals for the website. Finally, they’ll sketch out some rough layouts of what the website could look like. If you don’t have a current website, you must make sure your designer understands your brand, target audience and goals.
Web Designers use the tools and skills they learn in specific programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign or CANVA to create a mock-up of the website. Once the web designer has created a mock-up, it is then uploaded to a content management system (CMS) where developers can take over.
2. Does your Web Designer have a portfolio of previous web designs?
It’s always a good idea to look at the portfolio of a Web Designer before you hire them. That way you can see examples of their previous work and understand the process they take. This will give you a better idea of what your website will look like, and the quality level of work that they provide.
3. How does your Web Designer feel about deadlines?
Web Design deadlines are essential, because they set a timeline for the project. They give both parties a clear goal and make sure that key milestones are met. This means that the project can be completed in a timely manner and with high quality standards.
4. How does your Web Designer work with Web Developers?
Will your designer also be responsible for your site’s development, or will this be done externally?
Should your designer be responsible for your web development as well, he or she needs to be a strong front-end developer, that pays attention to the details. Keep them in the loop with your plans and they will be able to provide you with the highest quality work.
5. Will the design of your site be responsive?
It’s important that your designer is well-versed in responsive web design. A responsive site simply means that your website is optimised for use on desktop, mobile phones and tablets.
Not having a responsive design is rated as a top reason visitors might leave a website, according to a survey of 200+ web designers and freelancers.
Learn more about the importance of a responsive website here.
When deciding whether to invest in building a mobile app, consider that half of smartphone users prefer to browse or shop on a mobile site, because they don’t want to take the extra steps required to download an app.
If your current site is not responsive, it’s time for a redesign.
Communicating with your Web Designer:
Your Web Designer can be your best friend or the worst part of your day. Web design is an intricate process that requires skills, creativity and knowledge of current trends. While it is a fascinating field to work in, there are some important things to remember when communicating with your Web Designer.
What things should I keep in mind when communicating with my Web Designer?
-Know what you want your site to do.
-Know what design you want your site to have.
-Keep in mind that your designer will have suggestions that you may not have thought of.
-Know the design limitations on any devices your site will be viewed on.
-Be concise with your questions and feedback.
-Avoid asking for things that are not within the scope of the project.
Prepare for the future.
Undoubtedly, the future of internet users will bring with it some new and exciting developments.
In 2010, over 2 billion users had access to the internet. In 2021, there were more than 4.6 billion users online. The numbers are increasing and so are users’ expectations of what websites and online shops look like and are capable of.
Are you ready to meet them? Start by hiring a great designer.
About Joburg Capital:
Joburg Capital is a global digital marketing agency based in Johannesburg helping businesses grow and succeed with creative digital strategies tailored to their needs.
Our team of experienced professionals combine the latest strategies with proven tactics to create cost-effective and results-driven campaigns.
Discover how we can transform your business and reach new heights.