Let’s be honest: finding the ideal web designer in San Francisco can be as hard as finding a unicorn in the Mission. Everyone says they know a lot about technology, so it’s simple to get lost. Before you get lost in a sea of search sites, look at these wise tips for discovering the right person for you. Read more here!
Start with your vision.
Before you start asking questions, think about what you really want. Don’t worry about the lingo; just pay attention to the things that matter to you. You might like bright colors or a strange typeface, or you might be obsessed with a brand. Write down what you need, but be open to change. The finest designers will take your ideas and make something much better than you expected.
Portfolios: Just the Beginning
It’s a good idea to look at past work, but keep in mind that every designer’s bio sounds like they’re the best-kept secret in Silicon Valley. Get deeper. Ask them to show you their hardest jobs, the ones that didn’t go as planned. Designers who know the San Francisco beat know which styles will last and which ones are merely passing fads.
Don’t forget to talk to each other
Communication that is clear and dependable is key. It’s a big red flag if your designer is missing for days. No one wants a ghost on their project. Give them a test by asking them a fun question like, “How would you design a website for a bakery that sells hamsters?” The right designer will take on the strange brief and come up with some fresh ideas.
Talk about money up front
Prices in San Francisco might be shocking. Don’t beat around the bush; be clear about expenses, what you’ll get, and continuous assistance. What is in the budget? Do they patch bugs after the launch? Set expectations now so you don’t get any bad surprises later.
Look into references
References shouldn’t only be a list of your best work. Ask to talk to clients whose projects ran into problems or didn’t go as planned. The best learning come from real-world critique that isn’t polished.
Put function ahead of flash
It’s fantastic that a site looks good, but it also needs to be easy to use. Inquire about how easy it is to use, how quickly it loads, and how well it works on mobile devices. You need a designer who pays attention to the small things, not just the big picture.
Find Chemistry
Find someone who has the same sense of humor and style as you. Keep searching if meetings feel stiff or make you tired. Working together should be fun, not tiring.
Get together in person
Stop sending each other countless emails and make time to meet in person. This is the city of neighborhood cafés, after all. A single conversation in person can tell you more than weeks of emails.
Don’t let the fancy setups fool you
Agencies that look great and have cool office premises might be nice, but the designer with crazy ideas who works from a loud café might be the one to impress you.
There is no hidden way to get here. Trust your gut, listen to honest advice, and be careful of anyone who tries to sell you a promise. In San Francisco, the best websites come from real expertise, straightforward communication, and a little bit of creative troublemaking.