A Summary of Business Analysis
Importance of Building Client RelationshipsStart meetings with casual conversation to build rapport.
Avoid overly scripted approaches; focus on genuine interest in the client’s business.
Clients always value your care, interest, and thoughtful engagement.
Preparation for Client Meetings
Research the client’s industry, market trends, and competitors before the meeting.
Identify standout elements and avoid replicating common mistakes in the industry (e.g., poor design templates or excessive details).
Understanding the Client’s Business
Listen actively to uncover unique aspects of the business.
Highlight and capitalise on key features or qualities that the client might overlook.
Focus on delivering a website that reflects the primary and secondary business messages.
Strategic Website Design
Design with intention and avoid template-driven, mass-produced looks.
Emphasise clarity, ease of navigation, and a tailored message for different audience segments.
Use visuals, color schemes, and content that align with the business identity and goals.
Limitations and Realistic Expectations
A website supports business goals but does not automatically generate revenue.
Avoid engaging in dishonest tactics or unrealistic expectations (e.g., coercive marketing or over-promising results).
Clearly communicate the scope of services and avoid overextending into areas like advertising.
Practical Design Considerations
Optimise websites for local hosting to ensure performance and reliability.
Consider technical details such as server location, DNS management, backups, and SEO.
Prioritise quality content and ease of access to information visitors want.
Communication and Planning
Summarise discussions and key decisions in writing for clarity and to manage future changes or feedback.
Address input from third parties (e.g., friends) diplomatically, sticking to agreed-upon design principles.
Professional Boundaries
Focus on providing value without becoming entangled in unrealistic or time-intensive client demands.
Encourage clients to engage specialists for areas beyond the website’s scope (e.g., advertising).
Long-Term Impact of Good Design
Aim for simplicity, functionality, and longevity in website design.
A well-designed site enhances business confidence and supports operations but does not replace core business efforts.
Avoid over-promising on features like SEO; deliver proven, effective results.
Guiding Principles
Maintain a solution-driven approach that prioritises value and client satisfaction.
Focus on personal and professional growth while creating meaningful contributions to clients’ projects.
Avoid labor intensive on-going work that becomes a burden, as the client should be able to add posts or products themselves.
There are a few simple “rules” to help clients provide their own blogs and SEO configurations.
By adhering to these strategies, designers can produce high-quality websites that align with client needs and support their business objectives effectively.
