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Preparing for a new site

--by Twila Camp

Doing a little "leg work" before your initial contact with a Web designer can help make the process go smoother and cost less, especially if they charge by the hour. Here are a few suggestions to help you prepare for your new site.

  1. Know what you Like. If you have a better idea of what you like, you can give your designer specific details that make the process much easier. To do this, browse online for sites that appeal to you. Make note of the Web address and the specific things that catch your eye. Next, go over these notes with your designer.

  2. Know what you want. Plan out what you want before contacting a designer. What menu items are you looking for? What content do you want on your site? What online marketing techniques do you want to incorporate -- a newsletter, a resource section, a blog? To figure out what you want, browse sites similar to yours. Make a list of things you do want, and things you know you don't want.

  3. Write your content. Writing your content in advance can speed up the process. For example, try your hand at writing the "About" section if you know you want one. Writing for the Web is different than writing for print. Here are some resources to help you from usability expert, Jakob Nielsen (www.useit.com/papers/webwriting). I offer consults on usability and writing for the Web. In some cases, I can even write your Web content for you.

  4. Decide on a URL. A URL is the web address for your site. For example, WebDesignByTC.com is the url for my freelance business. It is also known as a Domain Name, these terms can be used interchangeably. It is difficult when clients get their heart set on a particular URL that has already been taken. Try the search engine at GoDaddy (www.godaddy.com). Enter URLs that you would like to have, and click search. GoDaddy will tell you if that domain name is available or already taken.

  5. Graphic Design vs Web Design. Graphic designers design logos, business branding and images that can enhance your site. Web designers "code" the pages so that site functions properly. Some professionals do both, but will usually have more education or training in a particular area. If you are hiring separate professionals, it's important to coordinate their efforts.

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  6. Remain Flexible. Some of the best partnerships are those where the creative energy flows between members. By remaining flexible, you will be open to the experience and expertise of the professionals you have entrusted your site to. Even though you've done your leg work, your designer may have suggestions to help refine or rework your original idea. Ultimately it is your site, but often their input is valuable.
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