When I think back to my Masters thesis and how I really thought I knew everything about being “creative” and marketing, I have to laugh. I now judge student portfolio reviews and competitions and realize how I couldn’t hold a candle the the new talent that is out there. I am sure technology has played a huge role in creating new abilities for comping collateral pieces and creating efficiencies in development, but I still don’t think I could come up with half of the great ideas and creative solutions I am now reviewing.

This video is an AMAZING concept that is perfectly executed. I wish I had the patience

A Graphic Design business owner and friend of mine sent me this video, obviously because he saw the relevance of the vendor/client relationship that we deal with literally EVERY DAY! I think this is really well done and particularly, the couple in the restaurant resonates best with me. While we have phenomenal relationships with our clients, there are always just a few that want it ALL for nothing. We call it… “Champagne taste on a beer budget”. Check out the video…it’s pretty funny.

I also wrote a similar blog about this called “Fast, Good, or Cheap. Pick 2.” Check it out.

A successful website must be many things. It must be attractive, easy to understand and navigate, entertaining, relevant and, above all, functional. That’s a lot for a lone Web Master to handle! Many companies choose to hire a professional web design company to help them create an effective web presence.

As more and more consumers travel online to shop, companies are beginning to realize the true potential of e-commerce. Not only does the Internet allow companies to offer their products to consumers anywhere at any time, it also allows the opportunity for a deeper and more meaningful dialog with customers. Websites have become crucial tools for businesses, and they often rely on professional web design companies to make sure their websites shine.

It is up to a professional web design company to accurately translate the company image, or brand, into an engaging website. This often means juggling the vision of the company’s managers, staying true to the character of the business and attractively displaying its products and/or services. No wonder professional web design companies are in such high demand!

Businesses must be careful when choosing a professional web design company to work with. Building a new website or even enhancing an existing one can cost a lot of money, and there are a lot of amateurs who try to pass themselves off as legitimate web design companies. Before signing a contract with a professional web design company, a business owner should demand to see previous examples of the web design company’s work, review the company’s own website (if your web design company has a poor quality website, how does that bode for your site?) Often, it can help to get recommendations from other business owners about the professional web design company they chose to design their website and how the project went.

Business owners should also make sure the contract with their professional web design company spells out a specific deadline for completion. Without proper guidance, a simple website project could easily spiral out of control. Also, make sure that you are heard. Remember, your web design company is working for you. It is their job to create a website that enhances and compliments your company. You should work closely with them on layout, design and functionality, and the web design company should always be receptive to your ideas and suggestions.