Web Design and Web Development Help

Have you wondered how someone selects a professional web designer or developer?

Is it important that a female client find a female designer? Does cost really matter? How do most people find “their” designer? I intend to share a glimpse into the minds of the prospective client.

I recently conducted a survey with my existing clientele. Although I realize this is not the most scientifically accurate survey because the information is from a select pool, the data I compiled will still be helpful for anyone thinking about freelancing or growing their current freelance business.

Why they want a website

“In today’s world every successful business has a website. Without one you limit your success”. -survey respondent.

The reasons why people want or need a website are the most obvious. Some want to try their hand at a web based business and others want a web presence to expand upon their retail or service based businesses. Many clients cited a website is far more cost effective advertising compared to traditional forms such as yellow pages, newspapers or direct marketing. “A website reaches the world market where before a very expensive ad in a magazine would only reach it’s subscribers”.

Clients are enjoying the 24/7 exposure the web provides as well as the personal touch a website can offer. “It gives people a true sense of who you are as a person or business.” A well designed site can boost your credibility, build trust and confidence as well as create an air of professionalism.

Many websites are simply a vehicle for communication. These sites do not sell anything but are used as a point of access to organize and retrieve information that can be viewed by a large group of people.

Some sites are created simply to keep up with the Jones’. “All my competition had one”! stated one survey respondent.

What kind of qualities do they shop for in a designer/developer

I was very interested in knowing what qualities the prospective client looks for in a designer/developer. The survey indicated the qualities were based on mainly three factors.

The first is to have a professional final product that reflected their taste. “Finding a designer with the capabilities to turnout a professional website was most important.” Secondly, was cost. Finding a designer to work within their budget. Lastly and most interestingly, someone with whom they could mesh well with throughout the development process. This leads me to believe they find designing a website to be a very personal experience as you’ll see from these two comments: “Easy to work with, flexible and good design ideas.” - “Someone who is easy to work with, who can design a website from a rough idea and someone who is flexible with a design”.

How do they find you?

On average each client that answered my survey spoke to 2 to 3 web designers prior to hiring someone. Who they contacted was quite simple. The majority of people who are thinking of having a website speak to friends, family and business associates. 59% found their designer by word of mouth. 25% found their designer/developer via search engines or directories. 7% were found by direct marketing. (I expected this number to be low since I haven’t done any direct marketing for years.) 10% could not remember.

Obviously referrals are the cherry on top and this isn’t going to be commonplace if you are just starting out. However, with attention to every business detail, happy clients will soon lead to a much desired word of mouth business.

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