Before Designing Your Website
January 23rd, 2010 | 
Author: Before Designing Your Website
I recently went shopping for a new handbag. I have back problems and wanted one that I could carry in my hand rather than over my shoulder.
I had various criteria to consider:
- What size? A biggish one that I could hold everything in or a smaller one for necessities then I could carry a briefcase for all the rest when require?
- The ubiquitous black or should I go for something more colourful funkier?
- Shiny or matt?
- Leatherlook or the real deal?
As I wandered around the many shops I realised that looking for a handbag could be analogous to the questions that you should ask when thinking about a website.
- What size should you have? A big site with every conceivable piece of information on it and loads of different pages and subpages? Or a smaller site with the basic relevant info and a form or contact page for any further questions?
- Should the site be plain and functional or bright and in your face?
- Lots of web applications and flash or keep it simple?
- Do you employ a professional or DIY?
That last comment I have already written an article on see here but the rest need further consideration.
First and foremost you should be considering not what YOU want but what your CUSTOMER wants and needs.
Size doesnt necessarily matter so think about whether your customer needs a full list of your products and services or is a rough idea more appropriate? Would your customer be prepared to search through the site for what they want or do they just want to make a quick visit for pertinent information? Would your customer like to have a place where they could give you feedback or leave a message 24/7?
Plain or pretty? What type of customer are you aiming for? Would they appreciate being faced with a colourful and funky site or do they really want just a way of getting information in a clear and concise manner?
Do they flash? Are your customers the type of up to the minute guys who like a few effects on a site or are they cautious when faced with anything too flashy?
If you have some idea of what you want when going into thinking about a website then you are more likely to come out feeling as though you have the handbag you really wanted.
NB. If youre interested I went for a smallish mattblack bag with a bright pink lining.
About the writer:nbsp;nbsp;Wife mother and web designer who likes to write in my spare time.
My business Bay Web Designs aims to provide an attractive effective yet affordable web presence to SMEs and individuals.
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