Once every few weeks or so, we get a call at Ciplex from a client who is frantic to have some work done quickly. The best designs and online marketing plans tend not to be rushed, so more often than not, we are forced to turn these folks away. Still, we feel bad for them – there’s a big difference between a new website or sales push that’s on time, and one that’s a few weeks after the fact.
With that in mind, here are four tips for keeping your web design team on schedule:
Check references and ask the right questions. We are always astounded by the sheer number of clients who don’t bother to check out a prospective vendor beforehand. Why would you write a sizable check to any design company if you hadn’t spoken to a few of their references? Be sure to check with former clients – they should be able to tell you whether your new design team can meet deadlines.
Be clear on the project. If your website isn’t ready to go on your expected launch date, but you’ve changed the layout and site map half a dozen times, then the problem might not be with your web designer. Figure out what you need, and be clear about expressing it, before you get started – it’s a tried and true way to avoid bigger headaches later.
Set reasonable deadlines. In the same way, don’t expect a whole website, especially one with features like a content management system, to be delivered in a week. Talk with your design team to find out what a realistic expectation is, and then set the appropriate deadline.
Get rid of slow designers. If you follow all of these steps, and you’re still having trouble getting finished work from your design team on time, then that’s a good sign you should think about letting them go. Your marketing efforts can make or break your company, and slow work can end up costing you tens of thousands of dollars… and sometimes a lot more.
