Selecting a Web Designer
When selecting a web designer, experience counts. Just about any kid in high school can produce an HTML page however designing a site, developing the user interface and architecture takes experience. The best type of experience is professional experience. Select a designer who has been working in the industry for at least two years.

Ask to see at least three samples of the designers work and make sure you get an idea of what the candidate's personal involvement in each project was. Just working with a company that has a web site is not experience.

Look for diversity in the designs. If every site looks the same, perhaps this designer won't be able to capture the vision you have of your site. Also, pay attention to the supposed audience of each site. Does the design reflect the needs and sensibilities of the supposed audience?

A professional web designer will take a lot of time to talk with you about your needs. They will be able to guide you towards the right solution and won't be afraid to state their opinions about some of your ideas. Remember, you are seeking their expert advice - make sure they have some.

A professional web designer will not haggle on their rates and they should be able to give you an accurate estimate. Be wary of those who insist on collecting the entire estimate up front. Many web designers are not licensed by the state and it is easy to be a victim of fraud.

It is typical to pay a 50% deposit upon commencement of work. Do make sure you have both signed a contract and if you have a legal representative, have them look the contract over. Set a realistic deadline and state in the contract that the deposit is due back in full if the deadline isn't met. Time is money and half baked HTML code isn't going to do anything for you and it will be hard to get another designer to take it over.

Ask the candidate what type of release schedule they will be working with and how they will be presenting work as it is completed. For larger projects, assign milestone deadlines for each section of completed work. Never agree to pay the balance before each milestone is complete.

The cost should be directly related to the time the designer estimates for the project. Agree upon an hourly rate and ask the designer to provide you with detailed hour logs. Agree on the means in which these will be delivered to you weekly.

Most importantly, when seeking a web designer or any other professional for that matter, ask for references from past employers and/or clients. Call each reference on the phone and ask the following:

• Are you satisfied with the work done?
• Was the work completed on schedule?
• Was the communication between you and the designer open and easy?

For more advice on selecting a web designer, please contact us or use our free consult by phone service.