Is your web designer pushing the easy button?
Why a web design plan matters.
New websites are expensive. We all know what it feels like to pay for something, but not be happy with what we receive. When it comes to paying a web designer to create a new website or revamp an existing one, it’s important to know what you’re getting for your money. Before hiring someone–albeit a freelance designer or agency–make sure you have a solid understanding of the product you’ll receive for the price you pay.
Below are a few key tidbits of knowledge to consider when hiring a web designer:
Good digital designers use style tiles. Style tiles communicate the visual theme of your brand, help provide consistency for your website, and contain elements that contribute to its overall design: Colors, textures, typography, iconography, buttons, lines and borders. All of these elements determine the basic feel and visual style of your website. And they either retain or lose the interest of the user.
Style tiles also give clients a chance to say, “Hey, I don’t like that texture,” or “Let’s change the font.”
Wireframes are key to client happiness with a website. Good web designers use programs like Adobe Illustrator or Adobe XD to give clients a preview of what their website will look like before it’s designed. This way, clients have a visual understanding of how the website should be organized and function for users.
Wireframes and style tiles make it easier for clients to interact with their designer and make changes.
Have you ever seen a website with too many colors or different borders or photos that don’t work well? When designers know what clients want from a website design BEFORE they begin designing, the end result is a win for everyone. Brand cohesiveness goes a long way, especially when clients are unsure of how they want their website to look. Let your digital designer be your guide, but make sure they have a plan and are not creating your website by flying-by-the-seat-of-their-pants.
Don’t be afraid to shop around for a web designer. Before hiring someone to design or revamp your website, make sure they have the skills you need.
One last bit of advice: Style tiles and/or wireframes should be included in a package from a web designer. They shouldn’t cost extra money and should be part of the overall website package.
