A web page is a virtual product present in a virtual world known as the web. Describing a physical object like a car or even a large building can be quite easy compared to explaining all the features of a website. This fact will trow light on important effective communication is necessary for the development of an effective web page.

Web site development involves the client who requires a site, a developer who is well versed with the coding and other technical jargon that goes with it, and more often than not a content developer who deals with the artistic layout required for the website. Almost all of those involved are mostly who are capable of working independently when the task is clearly specified. But getting them work to work in a team for a product that is in itself quite dynamic is the key to a good website.

First and foremost the client should chalk out thoroughly all the features he wants to be displayed on the site. The content of focus should be decided well in advance. The website should be able to communicate in a few seconds its purpose and what in general it has to offer.

The client, say from a banking firm may be an expert in the field of investments, shares and stocks, derivatives, etc, while the developer might be a wizard in the realm of designing. When communicating the intricacies of the requirements, the client as well developer should not assume that the other understands their technical talk easily. Both should be patient enough to explain their view points. Both must make themselves accessible to each other as much as possible.

Remember that a client will have the most fancy ideas concerning his website. The developer has to clearly specify the limitations associated with a specific designing tool, and suggest alternative ways to achieve the result. Also, the multiple ways to reduce file size, page load time and appropriate graphics to be added, without compromising much in the quality can be explained. A customer may suggest changes during the process of designing. A developer who is a good communicator can maintain the clients confidence in him by explaining the pros and cons of such changes.. After having designed many websites, the developer’s suggestions must be valued and can be incorporated in the site design.

The client might desperately want a specific graphic, picture or video to appear on the page. The developer must be able to clearly communicate the inevitable changes that may occur while optimising these to load them on the site. It is advisable that personal meetings be held at regular intervals throughout the development process. Ambiguous statements and instructions must be avoided while e-mailing one’s requirements. It is better to continue development only after reaching a mutual point of understanding in case of issues of contest.

The field of web designing is an area of expertise which cannot be measured by any yardstick. There is too much subjectivity and customisation associated with it. This makes the client apprehensive about whether he is receiving quality service for the cost incurred. But the customer will surely appreciate the efforts put in if the designer is a good communicator.

Peter Brittain
Perth Web Design