Choosing a Designer

A short list of 10 characteristics to look for when choosing a  designer:

1. Locale. One of the perks of being a web designer is telecommuting. And, a good portion of the job involves looking at content online. However, some people prefer meeting frequently in person. Think about what type of person you are when making the decision on who you will be hiring. Remember, this may become a long-term relationship if you work well together.
2. Education. A lot of web designers are self-taught, or have taken coursework specific to what they want to do. Although it’s by no means a requirement, a degree in a related field certainly adds credibility. Degrees in Graphic Design, Communication, Programming and Marketing would all be an asset to your designer.
3. Experience. How long has the designer been in business? What types of projects have they worked on? Someone who has experience with your type of project (or works with someone who does) can be an advantage, as they will know what to expect. People do tend to be more comfortable doing things a certain way that has worked in the past; however, make sure that they are not overlooking a new way of working that is more effective. Web Technology moves so quickly that keeping abreast of it all can be a fulltime job in itself.
4. Portfolio. There is nothing like seeing someone’s work to give you an idea if their style is to your liking. Some designers make a name for themselves with a particular style, and people come to them who are looking for that style. Other designers let the project dictate the style of the site, in which case you would want to ask questions about what factors were taken into consideration when creating the design and structure of the site. On projects you like, ask them what role they played in creating the site.
5. Skillset. Chances are if you are not a designer you will not know as much about the nuts and bolts of what they need to know to put a good website together for you. Some of the technical skills you would want to look for is the ability to hand code HTML and CSS for cross-browser compability. Hand coding requires a deeper level of understanding, and conflicts that may crop up can be resolved more quickly. Should the designer you want be less technically inclined, make sure that they have access to a programmer that can take care of these issues. Other skills that may come in handy are writing, copy editing, photography, image editing and illustration.
6. Method. On any web project there are a lot of decisions to be made, and the more people you add to the equation, the longer it takes for things to be accomplished. It is therefore very important to keep your project organized, and for each stage of the design process to be clear. The designer should be able to effectively communicate the steps they take to complete a project, from discovery to launch. Someone who sets up a calendar with fixed deadlines for all involved is more likely to delivery you a project on time. If you are working on a budget, your designer may need to ask for relaxed deadlines as a result. Communication is paramount to a successful outcome, so make sure both you and your designer will be available in a time window convenient to you both.
7. Personality. The better the relationship you have with your web designer, the less hassle for you later on, so make sure that you feel comfortable with the person you choose. Your association could last for many years. It doesn’t end at site launch. You may be using them for hosting, and occasional site updates or redesigns. They can also keep you informed about changes in technology that might benefit your business.
8. References. Sometimes there’s nothing so reassuring as an old-fashioned reference. Don’t feel shy about asking for one if you haven’t found your designer via a referral. If the person you are considering balks at this suggestion, it’s a red flag.
9. Availability. If you have a launch date in mind, it’s a good idea to find out if the person you are hiring has the time to meet that deadline. Also, if you are working with a freelancer, see if you can find out if they are looking for a full-time job. If they get one in the middle of your project, your work will suddenly get relegated to nights and weekends.
10. Flexibility. I almost left this off the list, but I think it’s the underdog of this group. If I’ve learned anything from working as a web designer it’s that most people change their minds partway through the process, as they gain understanding of what’s possible on their site, and you will be required to re-assess their needs or switch gears. Naturally, if the client has already signed off on the design phase of the project and you have construction well underway, you will be justified in charging an added fee to go back in time. Also, the clients may have their hearts set on a splash page and a good web designer will either good naturedly talk you out of it, or bend to your will and give you what you want. Some clients need frequent prodding to pay attention to the project, and others will give immediate feedback. Take into consideration what type of client you will be and if this will mesh well with the designer you have your eye on.