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Showing posts from September, 2023

Mistakes to Avoid When Working with a Web Design Agency

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Selecting the right web design agency is an important first step. However, to truly gain maximum value from the engagement over the long haul, clients must also nurture productive working relationships throughout by avoiding common missteps that can derail projects. Taking the time to understand pitfalls that commonly cause web design agency engagements to go awry empowers clients to foster better collaboration. Not Conducting Thorough Due Diligence Before selecting a web design agency, thoroughly evaluating their track record, reading case studies, checking reviews and requesting references to speak with existing clients helps determine overall competency and fit. Not conducting comprehensive due diligence often leads to regretted agency relationships filled with misalignment. Providing Incomplete Goals and Requirements Failing to provide the web design agency with a comprehensive brief on your overarching business/marketing goals, target audience insights, content strategy, must-have

Qualifications of a Web Designer

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 A career in web design necessitates both creativity and technical abilities. To design functional websites, web designers must be technically proficient, but they must also be artistic and have an aesthetic sense to create a pleasing user experience. If you are both creative and technical, you should consider a career in web design. In this article, I will explain what web designers do and how to become one. What exactly does a web designer do? A website designer creates or designs all of the components of a website. They select and design a website's visual elements, such as graphics, fonts, colours, and layout. They are in charge of making websites that are both visually appealing, functional, and user-friendly. Web designers must have creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills to be effective in their roles. If they work as freelancers, they must also have business management skills to attract and manage clients. Salary of a typical web designer W

How Website Maintenance Factors Into Your Web Design Costs

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When initially budgeting and planning for a new website design project, the upfront build cost and timeline is often the primary consideration. However, the ongoing maintenance needs and expenses required after the site officially launches also play a hidden but critical role in total lifetime costs.  To keep your website optimized, relevant and performing well over the long run, it is prudent to proactively factor long-term maintenance fees into the web design plans upfront when engaging a web designer. Regular Content Updates Keeping website content fresh, engaging and relevant through ongoing additions and updating is crucial for maintaining visitor interest. Realistically estimate costs of creating new blog posts, articles, product pages, service descriptions etc. that will be required periodically after launch. Factor any content production or freelance writing fees that may arise over time from the web design agency or third party providers. Visual Asset Refreshing As a brand evo

Signs You Need to Switch Your Freelance Web Designer

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While freelance web designers offer agility and personalization, settling with the wrong fit can derail your project. As relationships progress, some indicators may signal it is prudent to switch web designers. Addressing these early and considering qualified web design agencies prevents timeline and outcome compromises. Frequent Unavailability Your web designer should be regularly available during business hours, within reasonable limits, for calls and messages to sync up. However, if they are constantly unavailable and unresponsive to your urgent needs for days on end, this is a red flag. Switching to a web design agency with better bandwidth and dedicated account managers may be beneficial to ensure more consistent communication. Lack of Strategic Input An ideal web designer provides strategic suggestions to meet your specific business goals, not just generic visual designs. They should take time to understand your target users, pain points, competitive landscape and objectives. If

Signs You Should Redesign or Refresh Your Existing Website

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Over time, even the best-designed websites can start appearing dated or inadequate. As technologies and trends evolve rapidly, maintaining a contemporary, optimized site requires periodic revamps. But how do you determine when it’s time for a complete redesign versus a refresh? Here are signs to discuss with your web designer. Declining Analytics If website traffic, conversions, and other key metrics are consistently declining or stagnant, it likely indicates outdated design or subpar user experience. A web designer can identify pain points and advise redesigning to meet modern visitor expectations. Negative Feedback Comments or surveys pointing out confusing navigation, frustration finding information, or unattractive design are red flags. If visitors overall find the site difficult to use, a redesign by a web designer may be in order. Slow Page Speeds Research shows higher bounce rates on sluggish-loading websites. If technical audits reveal your site is slow, a web designer can opti