The newest addition to the westXdesign portfolio is Darwin Harrison Photography . To showcase his stunning photographs, Mr. Harrison knew exactly what he wanted. With the design already planned and a very clear idea of how the site should interact with visitors, he was well prepared to get his business on the web. Having a clear idea of what you want, or at least what you do not want, is very helpful when you work with a web designer. Working to make Mr. Harrison’s idea a working web site was an easy process, because he provided continual feedback during the entire process, and had the site tested and reviewed by his acquaintances, as well as the testing we were doing on the design end. The end result was closer to his conceptual design than I could imagined. And in no way is that credit to me as a designer. The credit goes to Mr. Harrison for his communication with me during the process, already knowing what he wanted, and working closely with me to reach the desired final product. I’m proud to have this gorgeous site part of my portfolio.
The lesson here for you? Before you decide to hire a designer, think about what it is you want your web site to accomplish, what goals do you have in mind? If you envision your business web site before you begin, not only will the site have a more tailored appearance, but you’ll save money on the design. When a designer starts with a concept of their own, then presents it to the client, that’s often when the client finally begins to visualize their site for themselves. And then they’ll like this part of the design, but not that, and keep this element, but get rid of that, and hate the whole color scheme and want something…brighter. You can imagine that this process can go for quite a while before the client is happy with the site. And the whole time, they are paying for designs and programming that the end up throwing out the window. Don’t let that happen to you!

Christmas is just around the corner, and I know you want to find that unique perfect gift…and I have a few suggestions to help you out…and I’ll even guarantee that you’ll find something here that is as unique and special as the person you’re shopping for… Read the rest of this entry »