First impressions often leave lasting effects, which is why companies invest in website design to carry out their digital strategy. An effective website design combines usability and aesthetic appeal to lure potential customers or clients to a site’s web pages. Website appeal, however, is not universal across markets, as different types of consumers are attracted to specific objects, colours and themes.
Close collaboration with a web designer at the design phase leads to satisfactory results. If your business is based in Sydney, then your best option is to engage the services of a local web design specialist.
A local web designer provides important benefits in the website design process.
Project brief
Website development starts with the project brief, a comprehensive document containing essential details such as:
- Website goals
- Site requirements
- Target audience
- Website functions
- Tone of voice
- Site map outlining pages of the website
Web designers rely on the project brief as it typically presents a clear picture of a client’s website needs. At this stage, the digital agency must obtain as much information about the business and the owner’s goals through questionnaires, frequent conversations and/or phone calls, together with open communication.
Design
Information from a project brief will form the bases of the initial design. Existing branding and design material are considered while websites of competitors and similar businesses are examined for possible inspiration. The best web designs are fresh and clean, easy to use and eye-catching. A website owner is encouraged to work closely with the website designer, provide complete feedback about a design, and specify favourite and least favourite parts of a design.
Initial designs are focused on the look and feel of the home page. This is the first page that Internet users generally view. It will contain basic information about the business such as who you are, your products or services, where you may be found and contact details. Internal pages are then drawn to follow the design of the home page for cohesiveness.
Large websites require wireframes or simple diagrammatic drawings which show the layout of a website’s pages and placement of functionality on each page. The approved design is then turned over to the web developer who writes the website code and adds important tools for searches, member log-ins and other website applications.
Website design can affect the outcome of your web marketing strategy. The design process requires close interaction between the designer and client and can take longer than usual unless you engage the services of a local web designer.
