Second-time-rounders (STRs) have had previous negative experiences with web site design and/or the results. I think it's probably a good idea to point out that this article is not (!) a condemnation of web site designers. The problems STRs have had really boil down to the lack of a proper match between the knowledge of the business owner or manager and the skill of the web site designer in understanding with whom they are dealing.
Web site designers, whether they be individuals, groups, or departments of larger firms, tend to operate in certain ways and attract a certain type of clientele. The points below are not written in stone. They are there to help you decide how well a particular designer will fit into your web site business plan, and how well they are able or willing to discuss a web site at your technical level.
A designer may not have to do some of the things below, and this depends on how much leeway you are prepared to allow.
#1. A designer who isn't prepared to thoroughly discuss your goals with you.
If all that is required is a few pages of text, some photos and your credit card, then you're probably not going to get an accurate reflection of your business.
Web site design is more about business consulting than pure technical skill. The latter is important, but is useless unless you purchase services from someone who understands how to market other businesses.
#2. Someone who isn't ready to work with your comfort level.
Most small businesses find $500, or a thousand, much more of an out-of-pocket expense than larger companies. They generally operate with expenses much more closely related to income, and don't have the luxury of flexible writeoffs, a lot of good will with creditors, or high-level banking relationships.
The designer must be prepared to deal with your level of comfort with the process, and be able to understand when you may feel hesitant or have unasked questions that need answering. Who among us hasn't at least once in our lives been a little intimidated by someone who is an expert in their field, and refrained from asking a question in case we sounded 'stupid'?
