In this article, we will discuss what to look for in a Web Designer and what you should know before you search for the right person or firm to develop your online presence. We have chosen five areas that are important in this decision: Experience, Customer Service, Skills, Pricing and Timeline.

 Experience

How long have they been in the business of Web Design and Development? Can you see their portfolio?

Do they offer a Website maintenance program or are they willing to train other people, if needed, to do quality updates in order to keep your Web Site current?

Will they help you market your Web Site by submitting it to search engines and using appropriate tags to enable your site to be found?

There are a number of questions that can be asked. The answers to these questions will give you an idea of what the designers capabilities are and a feel of how well you can work together.

 Quality Customer Service

Just as important as experience is the quality of customer service. Are your emails and phone calls returned in a timely manner? Do they follow through with your requests?

Can you talk with each other comfortably? Are ideas and advice shared by both parties easily?

To accomplish the end product you both will be proud of, it's imperative that communication be clear and flow easily.

 Skills

A good designer will be able to use their knowledge of layout, color, content and graphics to create the most effective Web Site for you.

They should be able to code in an HTML editor such as FrontPage or Dreamweaver AND how to hand code in HTML. Knowing how to code by hand will allow the designer to "tweak" and adjust code to achieve a desired result.

If you need interactive elements such as a search capabilities, forms or shopping carts, does the developer have these skills? Will your site require any specialized programming?

Are they able to create professional custom graphics? (These should be custom-made graphics other than the ones used for navigation or client-supplied logos).

Can the designer employ media such as flash, video or audio to enhance your site if needed? Are they able to incorporate business applications such as Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel or Adobe Acrobat if called for?

 Pricing

The cost of a professionally designed Web Site can differ greatly due to the many different elements involved and the skills and experience of the designer or developer. Ask for a written estimate and have them break down the costs for your each of the different services involved.

Will you be required to put down a deposit? Are clients set up on a payment schedule? Many designers ask for one-half the estimated cost for the deposit up front and the remainder after the Web Site is published.

How do they set rates? By the page, a flat rate or by the hour? Cheaper is not always better. With all the factors involved in creating an effective and professional Web Site, it is important that the designer or developer have the necessary skills and experience to complete the project. This may cost a little more, but well worth it by the presence you project to potential clients and individuals.

 Timeline

How long will the development process will take? Can they give you an estimated time that the Web Site will be published? How soon can they start working on your project?

By having a good idea of what you are looking for before you talk with the developer will enable you to be more informed and able to better estimate the cost of the Web Site.