Looking for a Web developer? Core competencies

First let me say, I am not a Web developer. But I hire individuals and teams that develop knock-out, highly effective Web sites for my clients. If there is one thing I have learned its that you take a huge risk - and more often make an even bigger mistake - when you hire someone who does not have a multidisciplinary skill base.

What do I mean? Let me paint some pictures for you.

If you hire a  "computer guy" who can code anything you want you might have all the bells and whistles OR you might end up with a dull template site that functions reasonably well. It might cost you a bundle, or it might be a $250 quick job, but it is unlikely to have the sophisticated design that will resonate with your graphic brand standards. Be careful, though, because all that custom code might be proprietary and then you are tied to that programmer for the life of your website., So, you hire a graphic designer that knows how to design a web site.  OK. It will look GORGEOUS.  But what about the content?  Is it likely to have calls to action and urge a response (sales or whatever) from your readers?  Will it be able to capture names and emails of your visitors?  How about E-commerce or online donations?  Maybe you are better off with the programmer? Or you can get these two to work together.

But there's that whole idea of the Web site as a marketing tool?  You want it to pay for itself with online advertising and E-commerce.  You certainly want to capture the contact information for prospects.  And if you found a marketing person - or even an Internet Marketing pro who knows about SEO (search engine optimization) - maybe you can really get some new customers out of it.  But most marketing folks are neither programmers nor designers.

And what's that last skill set you think would be valuable here?  You guessed it. PR.  They way a PR pro sees it, a website is a new channel through which to communicate with various publics - clients, prospects, the broader community, the media, suppliers, investors, and the list goes on. What's even better is that you can easily customize and post information, photos, videos, etc. And don't get me started on the integration of social media with your website. It's a natural for PR professionals.

I urge you to really look at your web developer or your web strategy team. Where are their strengths? Their weaknesses?  Who do you need to bring in to get your Web site and web strategies in line and working optimally?

Gayle Williams Vision PR & Marketing
www.visionprm.com

Original Blog Post:  http://www.visionprm.com/blog/looking-for-a-web-developer-core-competencies

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