Things to tell your designer before starting a project
So you’ve found a web designer with a great portfolio, good communicator, and impressive industry knowledge.
However, even the most experienced designers need comprehensive guidelines and specifications to create a website that meets your requirements.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide detailing the important things to tell your designer before starting a project. Making things clear from the start will ensure that everything goes smoothly and delays and modifications are kept to a minimum.
The more information and guidance you provide to your designer, the better. Key considerations for a successful design project
Clear communication is a very important factor when working with your web designer, from the initial planning stage to giving advice throughout the project.
There are also many other considerations that require similar attention, such as paperwork, deadlines, and budget management. For a web design project to be successful, everyone needs to be on the same page.
Here are key considerations for a successful design project:
- Make sure communication is clear and easy to understand.
- Always ask questions to determine if you and the designer are on the same page. Set realistic deadlines and plan for any delays.
- Always take notes during meetings.
- Make sure all project details are written down so they can be viewed later.
- Request regular reminders and progress reports.
- Provide gentle reminders of any upcoming deadlines. Ask if there’s anything you can do to make the designer’s job easier.
Things to discuss with your designer before starting a project
If you are an entrepreneur or a start-up company owner, you may be new to managing projects like this. This section will provide guidance on what questions you should ask your designer and how to provide guidance and advice where possible.
1. Ask the designer to review your existing website and marketing materials
Every designer should be interested in testing your current website to determine what it does well and what it doesn’t. This review process can help them understand your online presence history and how to improve it in the future.
Designers may even discover that your existing site is fit for purpose if a few small tweaks and improvements are made.
If your site is small and under 12 pages, it can be reviewed quickly and the designer can give verbal feedback. The average site over 12 pages will require further testing and written response.
A designer will often present how they plan to improve an existing website and their reasoning behind the changes.
2. Ask them about their exploration and research plans
Thorough research is essential if your designer wants to come up with a clear design strategy that takes into account your business goals, audience, and what your website needs to achieve in the short term and long-term.
This research process is called discovery and helps the designer learn about the business, its customers, and its direct competitors. Without exploration, the designer won’t have the insight needed to create your perfect website.
3. Ask if they can provide additional services
Many web designers have skills that extend to other departments, such as graphics, search engine optimization, and software development.
If the designer you choose can also create the logo, branding, and graphics for your website, you should ask them to include this work, limiting the number of people you need to communicate with.
4. Ask about options within your budget
Your website budget may be tight as money also needs to be allocated for branding and marketing.
