A website is an absolute must-have tool for any small business, no matter your goals or objectives. If you want to stay competitive, you need to be visible online.
Constructing a high-quality web presence isn't exactly easy, especially for those without a solid background in marketing or development. Building a website from the ground up requires time, money, and resources, taking focus away from your business priorities. The internet is full of do-it-yourself (DIY) website builders, but even these tools can be a stretch for beginners to the digital marketing space. Some 38% of web users will navigate away from a website if the design is unattractive.
If a DIY website builder isn't for you, a web design firm may be the perfect way to build a strong, visible web presence. With a deep knowledge of the components necessary for a great site, a professional team can frame your business in the best possible light.
Getting Started
It's okay to trust your designer's instincts, but if you want an end product that truly speaks to your brand, you'll have to provide the details necessary to get the process started on the right track. No one knows your business like you do, so without your guidance, your designer will be grasping at straws. Provide as much as possible from the very beginning, from ideas for the layout to the content you want on the pages.
Provide details in a few key areas, including:
A completed web design isn't finished forever, however; regular updates are a big part of maintaining a strong, search-engine-friendly presence. From time-sensitive information to adhering to changes in Google's algorithms, your site will require frequent changes to keep it up to date. Be sure to discuss upgrades and updates with your designer, and determine what you can do in house versus what you'll need assistance to accomplish.
Choosing a Design Firm
With the focus on digital resources at an all-time high, the world of web design is your oyster. Thousands of design and development firms are available across the country, giving you plenty of ways to find the right fit for your business.
Small Business Experts
If you want a team that knows how to make the most of what your company has to offer, there are many options for you to consider. Here are design firms that specialize in creating websites for small businesses.
Local Resources
These national firms are a great place to start. But if you want to focus on local strategies and specifics unique to your marketplace, you may prefer a firm in your area.
To find a local firm try a Google search for your city or metro area, business directories and referrals from other area small businesses. If you have colleagues or professional networks you trust, don't be afraid to reach out to ask for recommendations.
A great website is well worth the investment. With the ability to attract clients and build your brand, outsourcing your web design to a pro can do wonders for your business.
Constructing a high-quality web presence isn't exactly easy, especially for those without a solid background in marketing or development. Building a website from the ground up requires time, money, and resources, taking focus away from your business priorities. The internet is full of do-it-yourself (DIY) website builders, but even these tools can be a stretch for beginners to the digital marketing space. Some 38% of web users will navigate away from a website if the design is unattractive.
If a DIY website builder isn't for you, a web design firm may be the perfect way to build a strong, visible web presence. With a deep knowledge of the components necessary for a great site, a professional team can frame your business in the best possible light.
Getting Started
It's okay to trust your designer's instincts, but if you want an end product that truly speaks to your brand, you'll have to provide the details necessary to get the process started on the right track. No one knows your business like you do, so without your guidance, your designer will be grasping at straws. Provide as much as possible from the very beginning, from ideas for the layout to the content you want on the pages.
Provide details in a few key areas, including:
- Budget
- Color scheme and layout
- Features
- Page names and content
- Contact options
A completed web design isn't finished forever, however; regular updates are a big part of maintaining a strong, search-engine-friendly presence. From time-sensitive information to adhering to changes in Google's algorithms, your site will require frequent changes to keep it up to date. Be sure to discuss upgrades and updates with your designer, and determine what you can do in house versus what you'll need assistance to accomplish.
Choosing a Design Firm
With the focus on digital resources at an all-time high, the world of web design is your oyster. Thousands of design and development firms are available across the country, giving you plenty of ways to find the right fit for your business.
Small Business Experts
If you want a team that knows how to make the most of what your company has to offer, there are many options for you to consider. Here are design firms that specialize in creating websites for small businesses.
- Skuba Design
Skuba Design builds high-end websites, but also offers a suite of digital marketing tools to help small businesses excel, including branding, marketing, and video, as well as physical packaging and print media. - Huemor Designs
Huemor Designs specializes in branding and digital experiences that extend beyond simple web design. It offers expertise in online logistics, marketing and organization as well, with a focus on ecommerce and mobile shopping. - Ruckus Marketing
Ruckus Marketing builds custom sites from the ground up, with an emphasis on user experience, mobile platforms, apps and ecommerce. For those who need assistance with digital strategy, Ruckus can also help you plan for future growth. - Lounge Lizard
Lounge Lizard is suited for creative brands and concepts that want a stand-alone look. The firm works with small businesses from all industries, offering web design, web development, website maintenance, and digital marketing.
Local Resources
These national firms are a great place to start. But if you want to focus on local strategies and specifics unique to your marketplace, you may prefer a firm in your area.
To find a local firm try a Google search for your city or metro area, business directories and referrals from other area small businesses. If you have colleagues or professional networks you trust, don't be afraid to reach out to ask for recommendations.
A great website is well worth the investment. With the ability to attract clients and build your brand, outsourcing your web design to a pro can do wonders for your business.
