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Should You Hire a Separate Designer and Developer for Your Business Website?

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When establishing a digital presence, creating a website stands as one of the foremost steps for any business. It’s not just about having a website address anymore; it’s about crafting an experience that resonates with your audience, communicates your brand message effectively, and drives conversions. To achieve this, many entrepreneurs grapple with a crucial decision: should they hire a separate designer and developer, or opt for an all-in-one solution?

I specialize in helping small businesses and organizations establish their website footprint, and I can play the role of both website designer and developer. Why is this advantageous to you? Let’s look at the reasons why choosing an all-in-one solution is best for you:

Seamless Integration:

Opting for a single agency or freelancer who handles both design and development can streamline communication and project management. There’s no need to coordinate between different parties, reducing the risk of misunderstandings or discrepancies between design concepts and implementation.

Cost-effectiveness:

Hiring a multifaceted professional or agency might be more cost-effective than engaging separate designers and developers. Since they handle the entire process, from conception to execution, you may save on coordination expenses and potentially benefit from bundled service discounts.

Accountability:

With a single point of contact overseeing the entire project, accountability becomes clearer. If issues arise during development, there’s no ambiguity about who is responsible for addressing them. This streamlined accountability can lead to smoother project execution and quicker problem resolution.

Consistency in Vision:

When one entity handles both design and development, there’s a higher likelihood of maintaining consistency in the project’s vision. The individual or team is intimately familiar with the project’s goals, ensuring that design elements align seamlessly with the website’s functionality.

Ultimately, whether to hire separate designers and developers or opt for an all-in-one solution depends on various factors, including budget, project complexity, and personal preference. However, smaller businesses with limited budgets or simpler website requirements may find an all-in-one solution more practical and cost-effective, providing seamless integration and accountability under one roof.

In either scenario, clear communication, defined project goals, and thorough vetting of potential candidates or agencies are essential for a successful outcome. By carefully weighing your options and aligning them with your business objectives, you can make an informed decision that sets the foundation for a compelling online presence.

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3 Things To Ask Your Designer Before a Website Project Begins

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A strong online presence is essential for businesses and individuals alike. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to establish your brand or an individual with a passion project, having a well-designed website can make all the difference. However, diving into a website project without clear communication with your designer can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and unsatisfactory results. To ensure a successful web development journey, it’s crucial to ask your designer the right questions before the project begins. In this blog post, we’ll explore three key questions to ask your designer to set the stage for a productive and satisfying website project.

What’s Your Web Design Process?

Understanding your designer’s design process is the first step in building a successful website. Each designer may have a unique approach to their work, so it’s important to ask about their process to ensure it aligns with your goals and expectations. A clear design process typically involves stages like research, wireframing, design mockups, development, and testing. By asking your designer about their process, you can get a sense of the project’s timeline and how various design elements will be incorporated.

Additionally, it’s crucial to discuss how involved you will be in each stage of the process. Some designers prefer a more collaborative approach, while others may handle most of the work independently. Clarifying these expectations upfront can help avoid miscommunication later on in the project.

What Is the Timeline and Milestones for a Website Project?

Time is of the essence when it comes to web development. Delays can cost money and precious opportunities, so it’s essential to establish a clear timeline with your designer. Ask your designer for an estimated project timeline, including key milestones, so you can track progress and anticipate when your website will be up and running. Make sure to discuss how any potential setbacks or unexpected issues will be handled and how they might impact the project’s timeline.

Additionally, it’s wise to inquire about the availability of your designer throughout the project. Will they be working on your project exclusively, or do they have other ongoing commitments? Being aware of your designer’s schedule can help you plan for effective communication and ensure that the project stays on track.

What Are the Costs and Payment Terms?

Clear and transparent communication regarding the project’s cost and payment terms is vital for both parties involved. The cost of a website project can vary significantly based on its complexity and the specific features you desire. Ask your designer for a detailed breakdown of the project’s costs, including any additional fees that might arise during the development process.

Discuss the payment terms with your designer as well. Do they require an upfront deposit or follow a milestone-based payment schedule? Understanding the financial aspects of the project will help you budget effectively and prevent any financial surprises along the way.

Conclusion

Before embarking on a website project, it’s crucial to lay the foundation for a successful collaboration with your designer. By asking the right questions regarding their design process, timeline, and costs, you can ensure that both parties are on the same page and that your project runs smoothly from start to finish. Effective communication at the outset of your website project will lead to a website that not only meets your expectations but also exceeds them, providing a valuable asset for your business or personal endeavors in the digital world.

website redesign

4 Reasons to Hire a Website Designer

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In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is vital for individuals and businesses alike. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a small business owner, or a creative professional, a well-designed website can be a powerful tool to showcase your brand and engage with your audience. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) website builders like Squarespace or Wix have made it easier for beginners to create their own websites. So, why hire a website designer? In this article, we’ll explore four key reasons why enlisting the services of a professional website designer can significantly benefit those who have never built a website before.

1. Expertise in Design and User Experience:

Website designers are skilled professionals who possess a deep understanding of design principles and user experience. They know how to create visually appealing and functional websites that not only capture attention but also provide a seamless and intuitive browsing experience. Designing a website involves much more than simply choosing color schemes and layouts; it requires thoughtful consideration of navigation, information hierarchy, and responsive design elements. A website designer can leverage their expertise to ensure that your website not only looks great but also effectively communicates your brand message and engages your visitors.

2. Time and Efficiency:

Building a website from scratch, especially without prior experience, can be a time-consuming and daunting task. By hiring a website designer, you can save valuable time and focus on other important aspects of your business or personal life. Website designers have the technical skills and experience to efficiently bring your vision to life. They are well-versed in the latest web technologies and industry trends, ensuring that your website is up to date and optimized for performance. With a professional at the helm, you can be confident that your website will be completed in a timely manner, allowing you to launch and start reaping the benefits sooner.

3. Customization and Tailored Solutions:

One of the primary advantages of hiring a website designer is the ability to create a custom website tailored to your specific needs and goals. While DIY website builders may offer templates and pre-designed elements, they often lack the flexibility and customization options necessary to make your website truly unique. A website designer can work closely with you to understand your requirements, brand identity, and target audience. They will then translate this understanding into a customized design that aligns perfectly with your vision. From custom layouts and functionalities to personalized branding elements, a website designer can create a website that sets you apart from the competition and resonates with your audience.

4. Ongoing Support and Maintenance:

A website is not a one-time project; it requires continuous support and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and security. When you hire a website designer, you gain access to their ongoing support and expertise. They can provide regular updates, security patches, and backups, ensuring that your website remains secure and functional. Additionally, as your business or personal needs evolve, a website designer can make the necessary adjustments and updates to keep your website aligned with your goals. This ongoing partnership offers peace of mind, knowing that you have a professional who is readily available to address any technical issues or implement future enhancements.

While DIY website builders may seem tempting, the advantages of hiring a website designer far outweigh the initial cost. From their design expertise and time-saving capabilities to customized solutions and ongoing support, website designers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. By entrusting your website development to a professional, you can ensure that your online presence stands out, effectively communicates your message, and drives meaningful results. So, if you’re in need of a website and have never built one before, hiring a website designer is undoubtedly the wise choice to make.

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4 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Update Website Code If You Don’t Know What You’re Doing

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There are a lot of website solutions that make creating a website look easy, and that gives a business owner false confidence that they can dip their toe in the world of website code and make updates or fixes. However, there are numerous reasons why people should not work with website code if they don’t know what they are doing.

Errors and Mistakes

First and foremost, working with website code like html or cascading stylesheets (css) without proper knowledge and expertise can lead to errors and mistakes. This can result in a website that is difficult to use, looks unprofessional, and does not function properly. These errors and mistakes can also be difficult and time-consuming to fix, which can cause delays and frustration for the business owner and the website expert he or she may be working with.

Security Vulnerabilities

Making mistakes with your code can lead to security vulnerabilities. Hackers and cybercriminals are always looking for ways to exploit websites and steal sensitive information. By working with website code without understanding how it works, a person may accidentally create security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers. This can put the website, and its users, at risk of being hacked and having their information stolen.

Wasted Time and Money

Working with code when you are unfamiliar with it can be a waste of time and money. Building a website can be a complex and time-consuming process, and trying to do it without the necessary knowledge and expertise can result in a lot of wasted time and effort. In addition, fixing errors and mistakes can also be time-consuming and costly. It is often more efficient and cost-effective to hire a professional website designer who has the necessary knowledge and expertise to build and maintain a website properly.

Damage to the Reputation of Your Business

You can also make coding mistakes that can be detrimental to the business. A poorly designed and functioning website can turn away potential customers and damage the reputation of the business. In today’s digital world, a professional and effective website is crucial for any business that wants to succeed. By working with website code without proper knowledge and expertise, a person may inadvertently make an update that makes the website function poorly and turn what was potential business to a competitor.

People should not work with website code if they are unfamiliar with code or how a website works. This can lead to errors and mistakes, security vulnerabilities, wasted time and money, and damage to the business. It is often better to hire a professional website designer who has the necessary knowledge and expertise to build a website properly.

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The Difference Between a Web Designer and a Web Developer

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When you’re looking to hire someone to build a website and you are searching online or asking people for referrals, you might be directed towards a “web designer” and a “web developer.” Many people use these terms interchangeably, assuming that “web designer” and “web developer” are two different names for the same job. However, this is not the case as a web designer and a web developer play vastly different, yet essential, roles in creating a website.

What is a Web Designer?

A web designer is one of the first people you will encounter when having a website built. They are the creative engine behind the website’s look and feel. They will visualize:

  • how the website pages and infrastructure should be organized
  • what the homepage will look like
  • what the secondary and tertiary pages will look like
  • how will the brand colors be used on the site
  • where call-to-action and graphic elements should be placed
  • other design aspects of the website

Your web designer will be the one presenting you with mockups and discussing the creative vision they have for your website. Like an architect, they are essentially providing the blueprint for how the finished product will look.

What is a Web Developer?

A web developer comes in after the design has been approved. The web designer will hand off the approved design to the web developer, who will get to work creating the website. The developer will:

  • download the necessary software for the build
  • set up and utilize space on a server
  • use the design documentation and their coding knowledge to build the website
  • perform quality control to ensure that all components of the website are working properly
  • implement any feedback that comes from website reviews by the client

The web developer takes the design and makes that vision a reality, much like a construction crew would do with an architect’s blueprint.

As you can see, these are two very different roles in the website building process, but a good website professional can perform both at a high level, and that’s what you’ll get with Black Lion Websites. I excel at both the design and development phases, and will be responsible for both when you hire me to build your website. Contact me today, and let’s get started!

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The Difference Between HTML and CSS, and Why They Might Be Good to Know for Updating Your Website

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I build a lot of websites in WordPress, and I’ve been working with different content management systems (CMS) for over 20 years. The idea behind a CMS is that it should allow anyone to make updates without any knowledge of website coding languages like HTML. I’ve found this to be only partially true. You can make some basic updates in a CMS, but there are times when the CMS simply doesn’t work the way you want it to. For example, the text might display in a font style and the CMS is glitching and won’t let you change it, or there might be something that the CMS is doing on a page that you don’t like and there’s no clear way to get rid of it. This is where knowledge of HTML and CSS comes in handy.

 

On a website, Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) is the substance and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) is the style. HTML is used to create and format the content of the page (establish a paragraph, make this word bold and italicized, etc.) and CSS is used to determine how that HTML content, and the elements around that content, display on the page (place a red border around this text, change the background of the page to a light gray color, etc.). All websites use these two languages in some way.

 

If you’re thinking about updating your website yourself, you might want to think about learning these two coding languages. The CMS you’re working in doesn’t always work the way it should, or the way you want it to. You may need to “look under the hood” to figure out what is going on and how to solve the issue, and a knowledge of HTML and CSS will help immensely in this regard. The WordPress version you download and the website design you upload won’t be perfect, and they might not play nicely together. I recently built a website where I had to apply a lot of CSS, partially to fix some problems and partially to get things looking exactly the way I wanted them to. Some websites like w3schools.com have free tutorials where you can learn a little about these languages and how they work. It might look intimidating at first, but once you spend some time with them I promise that it will get easier.

 

However, if you are having problems updating your website and are looking for a helping hand, look no further. I feel confident in my ability to navigate any CMS, and I’ll get your website back on track. Reach out to me and let’s get started.