As a web designer, I am fortunate to belong to a really wonderful design forum, as well as have a close working relationship with others in the field. My closest colleague, confidant, and constructive critic is Chris who started dabbling in the website business a couple of years ago. He works for a very successful company specializing in after-school daycare programs, summer camps, and last---but not least---inflatable and party rentals.

A subject that comes up frequently in conversation is how to effectively communicate with our clients. Ok, we may not consciously state that as a topic, but the issue is at the core. In short: how can a web designer and a client effectively communicate to reach an agreeable outcome?

To arrive at an answer (or answers, plural), I draw from my experiences as an interior designer. They are broken down as follows:

1. No Surprises! Always leave no stone left unturned. Find out first and foremost the client's expectations and WHO exactly will be the decision-makers. Though this seems like a no-brainer, don't overlook the possibility that the client may weigh in heavily on other's opinions. The husband, the secretary, the partner, the girlfriend all may give a thumbs up--or down--as you are merrily creating what you think is a killer website. Also, never, never, never forget to have an ironclad contract that states exactly what the client can expect. Don't forget to spell out how many pages, how many graphics, list the ad-ons, the design process, payment terms, and a timeline.

2. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder! Oftentimes clients have a difficult time expressing what they like or don't like. For those who are challenged, offer "mock ups" of a page using different layouts and color schemes so that they can take their time and decide what they like: a top menu versus and side menu; blue versus green; Arial font versus Times New Roman.

3. Find the target audience! Don't forget to ask the client to whom are they marketing. Often times this drives the over-all design. For example, I've designed quite a few websites for IT companies marketing to the Federal Government. Though the client may want something "playful" or artsy, I have had to educate them that Uncle Sam does not find pink animated butterflies credible to their company. A good web designer should make building their client's business through their website their primary goal.

4. Develop the patience of Job. Designers should be prepared to re-work a design gone awry. We are human...and so is the client...and it's not unusual for a change-of-heart to take place. Maybe the client really, really thought that the lilac color-scheme they chose would work, but hated it once they saw it on the web. Diplomacy is key and the bottom line is: the customer is always right. Which brings me to my final rule...

5. Create checkpoints! Do not spend countless hours designing a complete template without checking in with the client along the way. Balance this with a need to show them each and every change and addition you make, as this will drive both you and them crazy. But, do let them see the website in what I call the "shell" stage, during the addition of graphics, and again when the content is added. Something I've done for the client who really has difficulty seeing the over-all vision of the finished project is to have them "sign off" at each checkpoint. This keeps them focused and my experience is that they really appreciate it.

6. OPTIONAL and use WITH CAUTION! Yes, I know there were supposed to only be five rules, but this point needs to be made, however painful it is to do. Know when to cut your losses. On occassion, it may be prudent to direct your client elsewhere. As a designer, you may not be able to meet their expectations or--simply put--you two are not a good match. Personalities can clash and if you get that gut feeling that you cannot satisfy a prospective client, diplomatically let them know that the two of you may not be a good fit. It happens...though most designers hate talking about it, we've all been there. Know when to quit and refund their deposit accordingly and in line with your signed contract (see Rule #1).

Well, there you have it! Five (with number six as a bonus)important rules to help you connect, communicate, and collaborate with your client to ensure a happy web design experience. After all, remember that you're only as good as your last satisfied customer, so take them seriously!

By the way, you can visit my design buddy's website at: http://www.NolanSolutions.com.

Happy Designing,
~Tricia

Well, I finally settled on a forum hosting service and have added it to my website as a link. You've got to check it out: http://www.tcdesigns.forumup.org

There's lots of categories to add, but the color-scheme, etc. is in place. My hope is that it will generate some exciting inspiration between other web and graphic designers...or wanna-be's.

Also, I'm getting ready to create a "mock up" of a website for a local printing company. They are in need of a re-do of an existing site. Well, more later...

Finally finished my new re-vamp of TCDesigns and uploaded to the server! Showed my biggest critic (my husband) and he said "he loved it...much, much better). Okay...maybe he liked the image of the fishing boat in the intro slideshow :).

I've got a lot to finish/add/alter like making pages for each and every website add on. Though a tedious process, I think it's important that the potential client gets a look-see of what their options are. Options...they are a nice thing to have.

Well, today I'm trying to squeeze in a few hours to work on the new and improved TCDesigns website. This has to be my sixth re-do in as many years, but, what can I say, I happen to believe that change is a good thing.

Also, as a creative person by nature, it's a way to satisfy my need to---well---create! Besides, it keeps everyone coming back to see "what's new". I really think more web designers out there really should take a step back now and then and really examine their current site. How's it working for ya? Are the colors still *current* (case in point: harvest gold refridgerators vs. stainless steel). Are the images still tellin' your story? How about your menu? Are you sick of the twirly flash roll-overs yet? You get the idea...

Yea, change can be a good thing.