How To Choose a Professional Web Development Firm

WEB DESIGN CRITERIA

Do They Have Design Experience?
Ask to see examples of a company's successful Web sites. Visit their Web site. Does the site have that polished professional look? Call or email customers to discuss the satisfaction level with the developers. What are their support levels after the site went live? You need to know you can form a long-term relationship with your Web Partners. A seasoned Web company will have an online portfolio for your review and will not hesitate to get you in contact with clients. (Less than a handful of sites does not qualify as a "portfolio".) You want to see that the company has worked with a diverse client base with different goals and target markets. Throughout the investigation remember your company or organization's image and perceived credibility are literally at stake. Poor design and graphics will reflect negatively on your business. Do some power surfing; you will very quickly gain a discriminating eye that will allow you to distinguish the sites that are professionally produced vs. those whose owners have cut corners. If you do not yet have an online connection, now is the time to get one for this process! You cannot choose whom to work with without viewing their use of this technology from visuals to functionality. That is what you will be paying them for. Do you buy anything else site unseen?

What is Their Online Experience?
You need a company that is well versed in the Internet's culture and etiquette. This experience is crucial to your success! Understand that knowing "computers" or "graphic design" does not necessarily translate into knowing what works, for your specific business on the Web. What industry organizations is the company a member of within the Web Development industry? This too will reflect their level of commitment and professionalism within this specific and unique industry. There are many that give the impression of knowledge and the perception of value to get into your pocketbook. Don't be fooled - with an Internet connection and some software, anyone can throw up a Web page and call themselves a "Web Designer". You need to do your due diligence! You need to understand the process and work with a company whose sole focus is Web Development and Marketing, and who mentors their clients for the success of their Web sites - for the long term.

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