When conducting a Web design project, preparation is paramount. The client should have an idea of his or her budget, requirements and goals. Neglecting the preparation stage can result in confusion, disorganization, and a less-than-satisfactory outcome. The website design checklist below outlines some of the main factors to consider when preparing to work with a professional website agency. Making sure these aspects are considered will ensure a smooth working relationship and a flawless outcome.
- Budget
Knowing the client’s budget will give the website designer an accurate idea of the mandate complexity. Some options can be eliminated immediately, and the designer and client will be able to discuss realistic goals, giving them both a sense of what can be achieved with the money available. - Specific client requirements
Initially, the client should list exactly what projects will require web design work. For example, the client may require marketing materials such as business cards, brochures, and letterhead. The client may also need the designer to create a logo from scratch. If that’s the case, the logo will need to be updated on the website, email signatures, and all of the client’s marketing materials. Perhaps the client does not yet have a website and needs the designer to create one. Especially when working with a tight budget, it is easy to start with the basics and ignore some of the extra materials that will require web design work, but it’s better to be realistic. The creation of a logo is worthless if it is not on business cards and marketing pamphlets. The designer needs to know exactly what the client requires in order to formulate an accurate quote, and the comprehensive planning process will ensure that all of the client’s needs are satisfied. - Outline the client’s goals
The client’s objectives ultimately determine the final web design. When design goals are not clear, the designer won’t be able to meet the client’s needs. Many of the decisions the designer makes will be based on the goals the client wants to achieve. The designer should approach the client with questions that address such goals. By working together to determine exactly what the client is going for, both the client and the designer will be able to work constructively toward those goals. - Outline the target market
Effective designs are geared toward the client’s target market. Knowing what captures the attention of the client’s audience will help guide the design, from the colors used to the type of medium created. Marketing for adults looks very different than marketing aimed at children. Men and women tend to be persuaded by different types of marketing and design. A successful marketing campaign will be designed for the type of person the client wishes to attract. Constructing a detailed outline of the target market will help the client and the designer creates an appropriate and effective design. - Time frame
Whether or not the work must be completed within a short time frame, a deadline should be established. Designers often work for several clients at once, and they can better prioritize their workflow if they have an idea of each client’s time requirements. The client and designer may need to meet several times during the process, and establishing a schedule will help ensure that the final design is completed on time.
