In this article we would like to list the types of website designers that are available to hire online. There are a wide range of things to consider when choosing. This overview is designed to provide you with the top level things to factor into using a website designer.

Freelance Designer
If your web design project is small, you may want to consider a freelance designer to work with you to develop your website. You can use popular services like Guru.com or elance.com to find potential candidates. Simply prepare a brief outline of your needs (specs, budget, timeline, etc…) and post it on one of those sites in the appropriate web design section. From there you’ll receive many interested freelance designers interested in working with you. Browse through them and select one who you feel suits your needs. Check on the rating and ask for examples of their past work. This service is great to find freelance designers and is well worth the small fee.

Web Design Shop
These are the next level web design companies who have businesses setup to create websites for their customers. These designers are best suited for small to medium sized companies who have some kind of existing brand that needs to be extended online. Web design shops usually have a good amount of hands on experience in bringing a companys image online mainting continuity. Pricing for your web design needs is usually lower and comes with very personal service.

Website Development Firms
These are the full blown companies who offer high end web design and many more additional services that may be needed. This include specific areas such as ecommerce, content management systems, CRM systems and more. Their service often comes with complete management whereby they also can assist in your online marketing and advertising efforts. In summary, the website development is more high end and meant for big business and/or pure play complex web design projects.

These are some of the top level catergories of website designers, obviously the specifics are more detailed and we’ll be sure to address them in future posts. In the meantime just be aware that ther are options and you should look around before deciding which of the website designers to go with.