Alright.
This post should be short and sweet, but it's important to keep in mind when working with a web designer.
In my last article, I explained how to plan for a successful web design.
This time, I'm going to talk about working with your web designer during the design phase.
In short:
Communication and feedback are the two biggest factors in whether a website redesign project will fail or succeed.
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It Doesn't Work That Way …
Most owners fail to realize that web designing is a collaboration. You don't simply sit around and wait for the site to go online.
Instead, you should be in constant communication with your designer.
And when I say "constant", it should be at least a call and several emails per week.
During the design stage, the designer is busy with preliminary designs, sketches, and mockups. Your task is to offer constructive criticism and feedback from an end user's perspective.
I'd like to emphasize the importance of feedback.
One of the worst phrases a designer can hear is "I like it." Which second only to "I don't like it."
Please.
When offering feedback, designers appreciate it if clients give specific reasons why they like a certain design or not.
Feedbacks like these allow designers to rethink the whole layout, or they can offer alternatives to satisfy the requirements.
One tip I can share with you is to take a look at sites you listed as likes and dislikes. Additionally, I encourage you to visit your competitor's website to form a cohesive opinion.
Feeding a Feedback … It's a Matter of Balance
Designers like to feel they're part of your business. And in my experience, projects where I receive constant feedback are the most successful.
Do you know why?
When clients drop out of sight, I'm left to guess what clients are looking for. This means I'm forced into redundant iterations.
Not only it's annoying, but it derails the creative process and prolongs the project.
Therefore, both parties should strike a balance on how much iterations should be done and how frequent the updates should be. Any deviation from the original agreement could mean additional fees to compensate for the extra time and effort to deal with new iterations.
Need a helping hand?
Sometimes, a designer might ask for extra hands to manage a project. That could mean hiring a graphic designer, a copywriter, an SEO expert or a junior developer.
Either way, a responsible designer should be able to indicate areas which need reinforcements. The designer should be honest enough to specify areas outside the scope of his or her skills.
In my case, I've got a team ready to lend a helping hand whether it's for writing a 500-word "About Me" page or creating 2 to 3 versions of the company logo.
Works like a teppanyaki chef
What makes teppanyaki enjoyable is the way chefs prepare the dish. Unlike the Western style of cooking, teppanyaki combines flair with food.
Web design has a similar vibe. As the designer works on your site, you should be able to see its evolution – from a simple, flat design to interactive, production-grade prototype.
The site may look weird and ugly at first, but you should see improvements as the project move from one milestone to the next.
How about you?
What’s your experience working with a web designer?
Is it value for money?
Leave your comments below.
Are you ready to redesign your site?
Jump on a call with me by clicking the link below:
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