Ten Best Tips for Designing Your Web Site

For someone whose experience spans all these areas, consider an Internet business consultant, she says. But, whomever you go with, make sure the experience fits with what you need.

Get It in Writing

Since your Web site may be how most people will first learn about your company, take the design of it seriously. Uzman "Ozzy" Farman, managing director and partner of Internet agency LOLZ , recommends having your lawyer write up the contract. Otherwise, you could spend more than you planned.

For example, Little Heart's Gross didn't realize search engine optimization implementation, one of her main reasons for updating her site, was not included in the fee First Page quoted. That fee only covered site design and programming.

Get Wordy

No expert can design a site without an idea of its copy and other pieces of content, like photos and video. Unless your contract includes a copy developer, you're responsible for all the words and images on the site. Also remember the Internet is a global community with a diverse audience, says Curtis. Deliver on time and your Web site will be up and running sooner rather than later.

Plan for the Future

You think you'll want to add another function to the Web site but you're not sure what yet. Just because it's online doesn't mean it can be done easily and quickly. Every Web site element takes manpower. Allow time in the schedule for you and your team to make adjustments and additions.

Collaboration Is Key

While a plan is necessary, designing a Web site is also a creative process. So unless you majored in programming or Internet marketing, you should keep an open mind about what your expert is recommending. After all, says Farman, "You hire us because you trust us and you want our work, our perspective and experience. You wouldn't tell a doctor how to diagnose you." But if they haven't done the proper research into your business and industry to help guide you, it may be time to move on.

Keep It Simple

The more complicated the design, the harder it'll be to update and maintain it, warns Lisa Lopuck, author of Web Design for Dummies (For Dummies). Unless you're setting money aside to keep someone on retainer, you should be able to handle uploading new pictures or updating the list of events or promotions. A simpler design is also more user-friendly.

Don't Forget Security

Security should be one of the cornerstones of the process, advises Kent Anderson, CISM managing director of Encurve LLC, a provider of informed risk management strategies. It's essential if you plan to be an e-commerce site. Be sure to ask about their security experience. Are host systems and firewalls periodically scanned for security violations? If there is a security problem, how will it be handled? How often are sites backed up?