So what Lessons have I learned, that will Help You when Hiring?
- Avoid pretentious fancy-pants web design agencies and absolutely avoid back street web designers who build websites on the run, and can disappear without trace at anytime. Check portfolios, testimonials and references from happy customers, and get training and guarantees.
- Always keep control of your websites. Host them on your server account where possible. If your outsourcer then decides to change your password, you can always get it back from the hosting company because the account is in your name.
- Ensure good communication on your terms is available. Email, Phone and Skype or other Instant Messenger service for immediate help.
- If you are running outsource projects, set timelines and delivery dates and check them off as the project is delivered. Keep this plan so you know your targets. Where possible, pay on results.
- Do not pay up front. If they need a deposit, then pay a small token deposit and pay in stages as and when the project is delivered. For example, pay a 10% deposit, 40% half way through the build and then the remaining 50% upon completion. Handle the project on your terms and not theirs but make it fair for both parties in case you wish to pull out at any stage.
- Accept that with most web designers, there is no loyalty. If a bigger and better project comes their way, they won’t hesitate in putting your project on hold while they go where the money is.
- Do your best to protect your work, which you have creatively designed and paid for. Its 100% yours and not the designers. They have merely implemented your ideas and you have paid for that: you legally own the intellectual property rights to this design or software.
- Do not trust anyone! Be very wary of ‘Yes’ men who are really nice but very vague and say ‘Yes’ to everything you ask them. Show them you are the boss and they will respect you in return. And, don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not happy with them.
