When you are designing or redesigning a website the key part of the project happens before any graphics or code are made.

Start by determining the primary goals of your website. Are you building a website online and using it to promote your products or services? Maybe it’s intended simply to promote your offline business, provide support to your existing customers or build up your company brand. Whatever the goals are, to be able to define them clearly ahead of time will give you a better guide in the actual creation process.

Next, remember that first impressions are lasting. Your web design must be professional and portray the right image for your business. Most web surfers decide within seconds of reaching your main page if they will browse deeper into your site or click away to another. A lot of studies show that this decision is usually made based on the appeal of the design rather than the text copy. This means that your site design has to grab their attention and convince them that you’re offering something of value fast.

Chances are you’re not a web coding guru or a graphic designer, so how can you develop a professional design? We get asked this question a lot by potential clients, especially from owners of home-based or new small businesses.

You basically have two options, hire a professional designer or firm to make your own web site or purchase a website template. Templates are pre-made designs that allow you to just add your text and product graphics. Templates have the advantage of being able to go live with your website quickly and usually for a very low cost, however they also have the disadvantage of being seen on numerous websites, so you won’t stand out from the crowd as well.

Either way, Always bear in mind that your web site design is what most visitors to your site are going to judge your company on, regardless of your industry, so make it as professional as possible.