This post was originally created for the now discontinued ebusiness blog (ebizblog.ca) on July 7th, 2008.
The average small business does not know how to find a web designer or web developer. However, with some initial planning and careful preparation, you will be able to find a web development professional to meet your business needs.
1. Evaluate the Needs of Your Online Business Presence
Setting clear, concise goals will help you understand what your business wants to achieve from the website. Create a "Request for Proposal," or RFP, to write these goals down and determine which website features are essential and which ones would be nice additions. A website RFP is also useful when you are recruiting and communicating with web development professionals. Download the following document to help you develop your proposal: Create an RFP for Your Website.
2. Narrow Down a Group of Web Designers/Web Developers
After creating your website RFP, you will need to shortlist a group of web development professionals. Below is a list of websites that will help you assemble your potential shortlist:
Additionally, a Google search for "Vancouver freelance web design" or "Vancouver web designers" will give you many different local web designers to consider. When looking at the portfolios of potential web designers, think about the following questions:
- Do I like the look and feel of their previous work?
- Do they have quality references?
- Have they created websites similar to what I need for my website?
- Do they have all the technical skills required to complete the job? It's important that whoever you choose to work with thoroughly understands the technical requirements necessary for your website.