In the process of creating eye-catching and high-performing websites, website design reviews are essential.
The idea of reviews might not cross your mind when you’re thinking about getting a new website. Your focus might be on the overall vision, imagining the features that will make your site stand out. It is important, however, to review each step of the development process to ensure you are getting what you want. Changes made later will be more costly!
Website design reviews occur at different design stages
There are different types of website reviews throughout the stages of website design and development. Some reviews focus on the design aspect, assessing the visual attractiveness and overall aesthetic of your site.
Website design reviews tend to focus towards functionality and user experience as the website development journey progresses.
Reviews matter! Ensure you keep on top of the process to get exactly what you want.
The website design process
It’s time to look at website design and construction.
Through my experience in developing many websites, I realised the importance of having a structured process guiding clients through a well-defined step-by-step plan.
Design, review, consolidate: remember these 3 words as a process.
Hiring a web developer is just the beginning. Some business owners fail to realise this and think that their job ends when a web developer is hired.
Website design is a collaborative effort. You need to stay involved throughout the process.
Effort is demanded both from the web developer and the website owner when it comes to website design and development process. This is where reviews come in. Everyone needs to understand the process to know what to do and when to do it.
This is Our Process at Website Designs Brisbane
Design
What are your initial design preferences and homepage content? After answering these questions, we will create a mock-up of your homepage.
Review
This is your chance to provide feedback on the general design. Be specific and give examples as appropriate.
Consolidate
We will then integrate the recommended modifications in design based on your feedback. We will go to the same process again until everything matches your vision.
Collaboration and iteration are the reasons for website design reviews. To ensure a smooth process for everyone, giving clear and constructive feedback is important.
Take Time to Review
It’s rare for someone to look at a new design and provide helpful feedback all at once. A few rounds of looking at the new design is sometimes needed to fully understand the design, organise thoughts, and gather comments. Give yourself enough time. This is part of the process in making the website of your dreams.
Feeling overwhelmed at this stage is common, making it challenging to articulate thoughts. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s a guide to help overcome these obstacles:
Step 1
Set aside about ten to 15 minutes to review the design without any distractions. Then, take a break before coming back to it.
Step 2
Write down your feedback either on paper or in a separate document, whichever is more convenient. After listing your comments, review them and ask yourself:
- Are these comments helpful, constructive, and specific?
- Do they give clear guidance to the designer if changes are needed? You don’t want the designer scratching their head trying to figure out what you mean.
Step 3
Share your feedback with the web designer.
If multiple people are involved in the design review, this process of consolidating feedback becomes even more important. Let me explain why.
Not everyone is supposed to provide feedback
Criticism can come from all directions and everyone has an opinion. However, not every opinion is valid, especially when it comes to website design reviews.
Ask these questions before going through website design review: Who from your business will be involved? Will it be the business principals? Maybe you and your business coach? How about your team members?
You will end up with feedback from everyone if you’re not sure who should contribute to feedback. While more feedback can sometimes help, often it can lead to confusion.
You have a deeper understanding of your business as its owner. Therefore, you can judge whether a website design truly represents your brand. It is important to trust your own judgment and incorporate the input of trusted individuals for the feedback. Keep this in mind to avoid a frustrating back-and-forth cycle of revisions that stalls the progress on your website design.
Final tip on website design and development reviews
Reviews are not only for giving feedback. It is also about brainstorming further ideas before starting your website build. It is about time to pause and assess if the design matches your vision. Above all, it is about time to craft thoughtful and constructive notes that bring you closer to getting your ideal website.
