Are you one of those small businesses that built a basic web site some time ago just to test the waters, and now you're ready to expand your site to add some flash and track your hits?
Or maybe you don't have your own site yet, but you're about to set it up, and you want some ideas or guidance to set you on the right path. Whether you're building your first site or re-designing your old one, hiring a Web site designer might be your best bet.
Not all Web site companies provide the same services, however. Web site designers have more of an artistic background. They generally have some programming know-how, but they shouldn't handle complex sites. They're better at creating the look and feel of your site.
Web site developers, on the other hand, have more computer programming experience. They might be best for interactive sites that require technical expertise. Some companies have both designers and developers. They usually work on so-called "high-end" sites ââ,¬" the ones that cost lots of money to build.
Companies charge anywhere from US$500 to hundreds of thousands of dollars to build Web sites. Whatever the size of your budget, creating the best site for your buck takes planning on your part and proper design and programming on their part. Hiring just anyone on any terms could get you stuck in the muck.
To stay out of the trenches, try working through the following three stages:
- Research your target market and put what you want in writing;
- Search for several Web site designers or developers, get to know their background, and get a bid;
- Make your deal and put it in writing.
