Attempting web design for the first time can feel like a huge endeavor. There are so many websites, so many different ways to approach your design, not to mention all of the other nuts and bolts needed to create a functioning site. As a newbie to the process, it's important that you have a clear plan or outline, so you're able to break through all of the distractions and get your site built – without being an expert in HTML / CSS or other web design programs!
The first thing to prepare, is your "to-do" list. Before even thinking about what you want your site to look like, create a high-level outline of the decisions that you will need to make to design your site. Your checklist should include items such as: web platform, design software, hosting company, domain name, budget, and a time-delivery schedule. Treat your website design like you would any client project – create a project outline and budget, to ensure that you stay on track. And through the design process, be sure to keep the purpose and audience of your website at the forefront of your mind.
Once you have a plan, you are more likely to stay focused and start learning the basics for your website design with less brain clutter and distractions. Keeping within your own comfort zone will help you complete your design faster and you'll enjoy the process more – I promise. If you are not at all familiar with Dreamweaver – do not worry, it's not necessary. That is the key here – because there are so many different ways to built a website and design, you can do it with or without software expertise. Programs like Godaddy's Website Tonight and WordPress.com have very simple platforms that do not require ANY web design or software experience. If you are a newbie, these are the best options for you to start on. While using these platforms, you will also become more familiar with the various web-related tools and keywords, which will help you down the road.
Now onto the design part – keep a sticky note in front of you while planning your website design with the purpose and audience for your site, clearly identified. The "pretty factor" of a site does not need to equate to a successful design, site, or business. You need to be sure to include the important marketing elements and basic design elements on your site to resonate with your audience. All of these things should be mapped out on a piece of paper BEFORE you start designing – this will save you several headers later. Examples of marketing elements include your contact information, your benefits statement, information and details that relate to your audience and your business, a way to learn more and dive deeper, newsletters, press, and so on. Basic design elements encompasss many things, but the main ones to consider are the overall look and feel of your site (modern, simplistic, minimalist, etc.), what you want people to see above the fold, colors, fonts, background, and so on.
These tips should help every newbie get started on designing the website they desire. Remember to break through the online clutter and do a little planning to help you stay focused along the way. You can find more details of items to add onto your checklist and suggestions on how to get started today, at http://loosenyourwhitecollar.com .
