Things to Look For When Selecting a Web Designer
Web design encompasses a variety of disciplines and skills in the creation and management of sites. The various disciplines of web design encompass web graphic design; web user interface design; web authoring, which includes standardised coding and proprietary software; and search engine optimisation. Each of these areas is an essential part of web design.
In computer terms web design usually refers to the process by which users interact with a website. This may involve navigating between pages, using hyperlinks, or even interacting with the application itself. Designers use web design tools such as graphics software, web browser windows, and client-side languages like JavaScript and XML to make this interaction happen. Most designers work in combination with content authors, web masters, usability specialists, web developers and creative staff. Often it is a team effort and often web designers will collaborate with programmers, designers, and sometimes even marketing staff.
The discipline of web design usually focuses on creating a visually attractive website that creates an overall impression. Whilst web designers are primarily concerned with appearance, they are also required to consider usability, emotional design and structural layouts. While web designers spend a lot of time concentrating on how a page looks the focus of their attention also should be given on usability, as users will be responsible for determining whether a site is both effective and enjoyable to use.
When considering hiring a professional web designer it is best to do some research to ensure you are hiring the right individual for your project. Make sure that they are experienced in working with a wide range of technology and browsers, and have a good understanding of online marketing and SEO practices. The Internet is full of websites designed by amateurs, so it is important to hire a professional who not only has the technical skills required, but has an eye for what is attractive as well. It is also essential to check out references provided by the potential web designer to ensure you have a good understanding of his/her level of professionalism and work ethics. If you are going to be hiring several web designers, it may be worth considering asking each designer to provide references.
Most web designers will discuss the problem solving process that they used when completing their project. It is very important to have a web designer who is able to explain the problem in a clear and concise way as this will show you their expertise and previous experience. Ask them how they solved the problem, what methods were used and which one was the most successful. It is equally important to ask them to describe the end results. For example, how many bugs were found and how many pages were accessed. If possible, try to talk to more than one web designer and get a list of their best experiences and skills required.
Web designers should also be able to provide a clear explanation of usability. Usability refers to the effectiveness of a website in providing a useful and functional experience to its users. Interaction design is very important for creating a user experience because this focuses on enhancing the users’ satisfaction with the website. A professional web designer will be able to combine usability, and interaction design for a user-friendly website that provides an easy-to-use interface with excellent interactivity.