Web Site Design: Can Cheap Web Design Companies Provide a Good Website?

Summary : No one wants to pay more than necessary for any service, but be wary of web designers claiming 'cheap' services.

In the fast growing industry of web site design, many cheap web design companies have opened their doors. Many claim to provide inexpensive web design services to fit any budget. There are cases when economical web design services may come at the cost of quality. It is not uncommon for "cheap" design services to include flashy design tricks in hopes of gaining your business. These techniques usually cause problems, rather than impress, your audience. Make certain you get your money's worth by working only with a professional web designer who relies on solid design skills, rather than showy gimmicks.

There are several questionable design tactics to avoid :

• Overuse of Graphics - Be wary of designers relying heavily upon graphic elements on the website. Overuse of graphics, besides being too busy visually, makes your website heavy and user-unfriendly. This means your site takes longer to download; a wait which could cost traffic and search engine visibility.
   

• Unnecessary Audio - A related tactic is the inclusion of sound files. Music or video files, like static graphic images, make websites considerably heavy. If the nature of your business warrants use of these files, make it available as an optional Flash movie or downloadable file.
   

• Text Gimmicks - Some web designers may wish to use scrolling text or a ‘marquee' tag on the website. This is a glitzy trick of little value to you or your customers. Scrolling text may appear animated on some browsers, but cause problems on others. This feature only works with Internet Explorer version 3 and above. The effect may be lost on other viewers, or cause error messages in their browser. Even if it works, scrolling text can be bothersome to some, draw attention away from your content, and cost sales.
   

• Inefficient Layout - Beware of web designers who use a shabby layout in hopes of containing costs. Visitors prefer websites with a consistent appearance throughout. Structured and well-organized websites are easier to use, and make a better impression. By all means, avoid the use of pop-ups windows. Most viewers use pop up blockers, and the ones who don't typically are put off by their presence.
   

• Confusing Navigation - The navigational structure should be lucid and simple. Unless your business warrants departure from the standard, the absence of conventional top and left navigation styles can confuse your viewers. If a viewer finds your site too difficult to use, or cannot find the information they seek, count on their departure.

No one wants to pay more than necessary for any service, but be wary of web designers claiming "cheap" services. In more cases than not, "cheap" refers to the quality of work, as well cost. Gimmicky design tricks cost you visitors and sales, and, in the long run, the "cheap" web design is fairly costly after all.