It’s true that the process of getting a website for your business can be complex, but we’re here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be a bad experience. We’ve been in business for more than a decade and we can spot trouble a mile away. Here are the top things that will make your web design project stressful, painful, and miserable for all parties – and how to avoid them!
1. Developing a custom web application without specifications or a “spec document”
A spec document outlines the exact functionality of your website, the database, and any other third party functions. You need this so you and your programmer can agree on what the site is supposed to do and how it will behave. Without this document, you may not get what you want.
2. Don’t hire a copywriter
Lack of content is the leading cause of delay for website launches. Delays cause cost overruns, increased errors and general unhappiness for all involved. Your website needs content so plan to hire someone to write it, or make sure you have the time, interest and ability to write it yourself.
3. Be vague on what you want the website to accomplish
You should know who your audience is, and what goals your website should achieve. Without this information, you may get frustrated by what is being provided during the web design process–”it’s just missing something” or “something just isn’t quite right“.
4. Hire a “buddy” or a “friend of a friend’s nephew”
There are a lot of people who can write the needed code for a website to show up. But there are many problems with hiring a friend or relative. First, you’re less likely to thoroughly check out the qualifications of someone they know personally, which can result in inferior work. Second, the relationship politics of hiring “someone you know” make it difficult to hold them accountable, leading to unfinished products. And lastly, if web design is not your developer’s full time job, it will likely be a low priority for them. If you want a professional site, you need to find a professional to create it.
5. Lose your domain name information
For clients and the developer, there’s nothing worse than having to struggle with a domain name that has gone missing or is being held hostage by another developer. This point can’t be stressed enough – know who your registrar is, and keep the domain name information in a safe place where it won’t get lost.
These five points are a great start to helping your website development go smoothly. If you’re getting ready to build a new site or get a website redesign, here are some other articles that you’ll find helpful:
5 Little Web Design Tips That Have a Big Impact
Flash Takes a Another Hit and Your Website Could be the Worst Hurt
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