Designing a website, even a basic one, requires a significant amount of time and attention to detail. Understanding the intricacies involved in website design can help individuals appreciate the value and effort that goes into creating a well-designed and functional website.
Even if you want to hand over every aspect of the website to someone else, there are still questions you should consider and answer before even approaching a web designer.
Some of these questions can automatically be answered by industry alone. For example, with author and artist websites, the first goal is to showcase the books or art. If you want to take it a step further and sell from your site, that takes a project from a standard or advanced site into e-commerce.
Let's dive into a few key questions and explore how they can guide you and your web designer through the process.
1. What is the Purpose of Your Website?
Understanding the purpose of your website is crucial in determining its design and layout. Are you aiming to sell products or services, provide information, or engage with your audience? Clarifying your website's purpose will help your web designer prioritize its features and content. Is your site meant to inform? To sell? To engage? For example, an e-commerce site might require a user-friendly interface with clear product categories and a seamless checkout process, while a blog or news website may prioritize easy navigation and engaging content.
2. Who is Your Target Audience?
Knowing your target audience is essential in creating a website that resonates with them. Consider their demographics, interests, and preferences. This information will influence your web designer's design choices, such as color schemes, font styles, and overall tone. For instance, a website targeting young adults may opt for vibrant colors and modern fonts, while a website targeting professionals may choose a more minimalist and professional aesthetic.
3. What Content Will You Include?
The content on your website plays a vital role in communicating your message and attracting visitors. Determine what type of content you will include, such as text, images, videos, or interactive elements. It's important to strike a balance between providing valuable information and keeping the design visually appealing. For example, if you're showcasing products, high-quality product images with detailed descriptions can enhance the user experience and drive conversions.
4. How Will You Measure Success?
Defining what success looks like for your website will enable you to track its performance and make necessary adjustments. Consider setting specific goals and metrics to measure your website's success, such as conversion rates, page views, or engagement metrics. By regularly analyzing this data, you can identify areas that need improvement and optimize your website accordingly.
5. Are you ready?
You will need consider your availability for reviews and schedule time for each review to ensure the project isn't derailed before it begins. If you tell your web designer that you're ready to start, but then realize you have obligations that will prevent you from responding to questions or completing site reviews, then you're not ready.
Bonus Question: Does my budget allow for the site I want?
You can't go into a car dealership and expect to buy a Range Rover for the price of a Honda, and you can't expect an advanced or e-commerce site with lots of extras for the price of a basic site. Be honest about what your budget will allow, and understand the limitations that may place on the website.
These are just a few key considerations among the myriad of factors that contribute to being ready for a website. By thoroughly understanding and addressing these aspects, you will be equipped to confidently say "Yes" when your web designers ask if you are ready to embark on the website process.
Keep in mind that website design is an ongoing process, and it's important to regularly evaluate and update your website to meet the evolving needs of your audience and industry.