Five Questions to Ask About a Web Designer

Make sure the consultant is accessible, dependable and understandable. Looking for someone to design (or redesign) your company's Web site? Ask yourself the following questions when evaluating possible consultants.

1. Does the designer speak your language?
Search for someone who is Internet-savvy, yet able to converse in layman's terms. Don't let fancy tech talk impress you -- make sure you understand what the person is saying and that the designer is receptive to your questions and suggestions. You'll also want to make sure that you and the consultant are on the same page when it comes to budget and deadlines. Check references to find out if the designer takes deadlines seriously and can work within a budget.

2. How easily can you contact the designer?
A Web consultant should be easily accessible in case of a technical emergency. Does the person answer the phone, available on email, messenger and other online channels? Does he or she carry a cell phone?

3. What is the scope of the designer's technical knowledge?
Many smaller companies develop their own Web content and art, while outsourcing the creation, implementation and maintenance of the site. When interviewing Web consultants, you'll want to ask about a wide range of skills, from HTML programming, Web site editing and animation, to Internet training services (for you and your employees) and Web site security. If you don't know what specific technical skills your site may require, describe your site objectives in detail and ask whether the consultant has the expertise to deliver.

4. Will the designer create pages that you and your employees will be able to update?
A good consultant will build a site that is relatively easy for you and your staff to update. However, if you're a sole proprietor who is pressed for time, you may want to contract with the designer to update the site for you. Regardless, the designer should be willing to educate you on basic site maintenance, so that you can make simple changes and additions.

5. Does the designer provide any additional services?
Kill two birds with one stone by asking about additional and complimentary services. Some Web designers offer copywriting services, traffic-tracking programs to count site visits, directory listings on search engines and more.

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