When you hire a web designer, the inclusions you get with your service and the process they follow will depend on the type of website design service you need. Here’s what you can expect when you work with a web designer:
Front end designA website designer is sometimes known as a front end designer. This means they focus on the front end of the website and how it looks and functions for your website visitors. Front end designers have a good understanding of user experience and a great eye for design. They’re nearly always highly skilled at css, which is the code that styles your website. Your web designer will ask you about your brand style and preferences before proposing a new design.
Website developmentMany web designers are also proficient at website development. This involves the back-end of the website, or the code and framework your website is built on. They may specialise in different coding languages and back-end skills, like HTML, PHP, Javascript, and database development. Many website designers are self taught developers, but some undertake studies in this field.
Content management systemsSome website designers will work specifically with Wordpress, Shopify, Joomla, Squarespace, Wix, Weebly, and other content management systems. These platforms allow you to log into the back end and make future design and content updates. A CMS is ideal if you want to manage your website yourself or make regular updates.
Website hostingOnce you’ve approved your new website design, your designer will do some testing on a live copy, back up your existing site, then make your new site live. If you don’t already have web hosting (which is where your website files are hosted), your web designer can help you choose the best host and get it set up.
Minor website updates or fixesIt’s a good idea to have a web design on call in case you need an update or a fix. They’ll need access to the back-end of your site and clear directions on what you want changed. They’ll confirm the changes, test everything’s working, and update your site.
Regular website maintenanceEvery website needs regular maintenance to ensure it stays healthy, secure, and up to date. It’s a good idea to find a web designer near you who can keep tabs on security and/or plugin updates, as well as making any minor content updates you need on a regular basis.
