Web designing is about much more than making a pretty page. The design of your Web site helps create your visitors’ first impression about your company, your message and even your quality. Web designers must take three main concepts into consideration when creating your Web site concept:

• Content :: What is the informational value of your site?
• Usability :: How quickly visitors can find desired content and they will interact with the site’s features
• Appearance :: Styles, aesthetics and professional appearance of the pages.

A few things to keep in mind when thinking about the Web design:

1. Have a purpose :: Everything that goes on your Web site must help your users achieve their goals and support the site’s goals.
2. Keep it simple :: Simple Web designs deliver huge benefits to the designer, client and user. When a Web design doesn’t seem to be working, ask what should be taken away before asking what is missing.
3. Communication, not decoration :: When designing your Web site, it is easy to get sucked into the fine details. Your users are not interested in grading your design work. Their sole concern is finding the relevant information in as little time as possible, then moving on.
4. Writing for the Web:: Content presentation should be considered as part of the overall design of the site. When creating and editing content, work to get your message across concisely and efficiently using language and tone appropriate for your audience.
5. People Skim :: Users skim pages for clues instead of reading. They make snap decisions instead of evaluating and judging carefully. They are driven by their goals, not yours. Help your user find what he is looking for.

Partnering with the right Web designer is as important a decision as securing your programmers and defining the site’s features. Your designer will help ensure your site reflects your brand and personality. Let him educate and lead you in structuring your site to help your visitors quickly and easily achieve their goals on the site.