Hiring a Web Designer

With the proliferation of website templates available, many for free, you may be tempted to treat your Website as a DIY project. In some cases, that may be the way to go. However, just as you might be willing to trust your own carpentry skills when putting together a picnic table but not when building a Bed and Breakfast, there are times when it simply makes sense to hire a professional to help you with your Website.

For the B&B, you’d start with an architect; for your Website, you’ll need a Web designer. But beware: the ability to throw together some HTML code does not make a designer. Here are some questions to ask when interviewing prospective Web designers:

Do you have experience with my type of business?

Someone who is a whiz at putting together media-intensive, glitzy sites for on-stage performers may be able to create a visually interesting Website for your Bed and Breakfast, but that won’t be enough if he doesn’t know how to handle bookings, cancellations, and secure credit card transactions.

Will you handle the entire project from drawing board to implementation, or will I need to involve other people?

Some designers are willing and able to serve as general contractors, overseeing all aspects of a complex project; others want to focus only on the user navigation structure and visual interface elements. It’s important to know up front what your designer will and won’t do.

What are your policies on Website changes?

As your business grows and changes, you will want your Website to do so as well. Whether it’s to add new products to your store or add information about a new location, there is little doubt that you will need to update your site. Find out how the designer handles these kinds of changes, as well as larger redesigns.

Of course, you’ll also need to discuss prices and schedules, and you’ll want to talk to the designer’s customers to make sure she delivers what she promises on time. Just like hiring the right architect ensures you get the building you want, taking the time to find the right designer will help you launch a successful Website.

Photo credit: Ben Dodson

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