5 Tips when hiring a web designer » Atlanta Web Design
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5 tips to Consider when hiring a web designer.

In my years as a developer, I have run across many people who’ve had bad experiences with web designers. These designers can promise the world, but they often don’t deliver, especially in the areas of aesthetics and usability. The reason for this is simple: they are not really graphic or web designers. They are what I call cookie cutters—people who can change images and color schemes with the help of a template. These cookie cutters know nothing about navigation flow, user experience design, or SEO.

Here are five tips to consider before hiring someone to design your website.

1. You get what you pay for.

This really is true in this business. While a good designer might not come cheap, the cheap ones almost always use a template—one that someone else might already be using. The trick is to find freelancers that are in the mid-range. Always look for more than two providers and compare their prices.

2. Check their portfolio.

Make sure to ask your prospective candidates for a portfolio that highlights their experience. Most good web designers have work to display on their site. When browsing through the portfolio, check to see if their content is aesthetically pleasing. Also, is the candidate’s own website well designed, and is it hosted on its own domain? These things will give you an idea of the designer’s skills and professionalism.

3. Ask if the designer offers support.

What if you have a question about your site? Is the designer willing to help you if things go wrong? I’ve seen far too many clients with good websites but poor support networks. For example, If a client bought a CMS (content management system), but was never trained to use it, and could no longer reach the designer, he or she might be in trouble.

4. Require a detailed contract.

Every web designer should have a contract, not only to protect his/her interests, but yours as well. Include both the amount being charged for the project and your contact info. If you don’t have a contract, the designer can easily run away with your money and leave you empty handed.

5. Be flexible about location.

Most people are skeptical about doing business remotely. However, what you are looking for may not exist in your home state. The truth is that you shouldn’t avoid long-distance collaborations if you’ve signed a contract. In an age where technology is allowing us to make personal connections all over the world, we should use it to make business connections in a similar way.

Remember to do your research about anything you’re being talked into doing. I know it’s human nature to give people the benefit of the doubt, but it’s important to be cautious when your business is at stake.

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

See you soon!