Web Design Project: The Complete Guide

When undertaking a new website project, there's a lot to consider. Here's our complete guide to building the website of your dream. 

At Activate Design, we will work with you to create a website that answers all of your clients' questions before they even ask. Every company deserves a website that represents them, their team, and their products and services in the best possible light. Make it simple for your clients to find you, and to find exactly what they want.

Questions to Ask About Your Website Design Project

Before you build a new website (or rehab an old one), you should know why you're doing it. These questions can help you determine if it's worth the investment, and what the new website should offer.

What advantage(s) do I offer over my competitors?

You may offer better quality products, faster service, or a more diverse team to provide a wider range of solutions. Regardless of the advantage, your website must make it clear that you are better than your competitors.

How will my target audience be searching for me?

Are your customers likely to be searching for your website via desktop computer, tablet, or mobile device?

In any case, you'll need a responsive website design to adapt to all screen sizes, or a more dedicated mobile website to cater specifically to mobile users..

Do I want to sell online?

If you offer physical or digital products, an eCommerce store might be the solution you're looking for.

With our signature eCommerce platform, we make it easy for you to manage your products, inventory, and content, even if you're not technologically-savvy.

Do I want an online portfolio?

Are you a photographer, chef, or designer? An online portfolio is one of the best ways to show off your work.

Your website can become a place that provides further information about your products and services, and gives your business a contact point while showcasing your company as a well-established and legitimate place of business. 

How can a website benefit my customers?

Include testimonials, product reviews, and more to build trust with potential customers. If you own a physical storefront, keep your customers up to date with hours, in-store specials, and more!

What examples of previous successful projects can we offer?

Do you have photos of previous jobs you have done, products you have developed, or in-store displays that best showcase your work? Do you have customer testimonials of how your work has satisfied your clients? People love to be assured that what they are getting has exceeded the expectations of your previous customers.

What can we offer online?

What you can offer online through images and testimonials is legitimacy that you know your industry and can offer top quality products and excellent service, but there is so much more you could offer:

• Free downloads for more information or software.
• Online booking for tours, rentals or accommodation.
• Special deals or vouchers.
• Online support with instant messaging, or a contact form for more convenience in getting in touch with you.
• A map and clear instructions/images to help people find your store.
• Images of your premises, so when they arrive the surrounding are familiar and make your customers feel more comfortable.
• Staff Profiles, so your customers can feel like they know you.

Elements of a Web Design Project

The first steps of a new website are crucial. First and foremost, you should have an idea of how you want it to look and function for customers. 

The best way to do this is by doing research. Learn about website design and graphic design, and make mental notes of websites that you enjoy frequenting.

Main Navigation

Most websites have these standard pages:

• Home 
• About Us
• Shop/Gallery
• Contact

But depending on your business, your website may include pages such as:

• Product
• Blog
• Equipment
• Services
• Meet the Team
• History

If you're a restaurant you may want to look at having a full menu page, and a downloadable version of your menu.

If you're in the industrial sector you may want a page on new equipment for sale, and a separate page for used equipment.

We can help advise you on the best way to display and promote yourself, making navigating your website an easy and enjoyable experience.

Extra Features

Categories

Classifying products into categories makes products & collections easier to find for customers.

Think about a costume shop. They may have different costumes defined as 'masquerade,' 'country,' and 'gothic.'

Separating these items into categories will make it much easier for your customers to find the type of costume they're searching for.

Navigation Features

Some of these features may include:

• A Search Bar - to enable quicker results for specific requirements
• Navigation Footer Links - so people can have a better overview of what's on your site, and to avoid a 'lost in space' feeling.
• Legal Information - including Terms & Conditions and/or Guarantees associated with your products and services.
• Instructions - on how to use an item, how to order an item, or information on special features.
• Instructional Videos - links to instructional videos on your website are a great reference point for your customers, and will keep them coming back, as well as referring friends to your site to view your clips.

Take the time to browse the internet and note down things that catch your eye, or sites that were simple and enjoyable to view. View our Activate Portfolio for the most recent website design and development projects we have undertaken, and CONTACT US to discuss how we can create a website that will be like an online branch of your business, working 24 hours to ensure your customers can find you, and see exactly how you can meet and exceed their expectations.