The Importance of Communication Between Lawyers and Their Web Design Firm

Effective communication with a Web design firm should begin long before you actually hire the designer who will build your site. This is because the most efficient way to hire a Web designer is to know what type of design you want for your law practice. If you know what types of designs you like in advance, then you will have a better idea of whether or not the designer can build the site that you envision.

One of the best ways to brainstorm ideas for Web design is to start with the competition. Find out how other Websites are targeting the clients you want to attract. When you "shop the competition" you can learn a great deal about how the Internet is used to generate business. If you see a design you like, ask if the designer is capable of building a site similar to it.

While you might think this is the designer's job, not yours, the process will be much more successful if you and the designer are on the same page about where how you view the final product: a Website that looks as good as it performs.

You may never have access to the true ROI a law firm receives on its Website, you can tell from a user's point of view, how effective the Website is in creating a compelling online identity.

Also, before you hire the designer, it's important to pick a point person to communicate with the designer, who will eliminate miscommunications between the designer and the law firm. This person should receive feedback from as many people as possible regarding the desired design of the site. The feedback should be complied into ideas that can be expressed to the designer.

Once you have hired a designer who you feel would most successfully execute the firm's and have a point person in place, you can begin the editing process. That means that the point person will bring the latest versions of the Website back to the law firm for feedback.

When it comes to feedback to the designer, be kind. Remember to treat the designer with the same respect that you would treat other law firm members. A little constructive criticism can go a long way and is the key to keeping your relationship with the Web designer a positive one. When you critique the designer's versions, be kind, but also be direct so you can get the changes you need.

Once you have completed the revision process, and have a final Web design, be sure that the point person is thorough by getting feedback from everyone in the law firm. There's no sense in accepting a design that decision makers have not reviewed. Be sure that the point person has the authority to accept the final design.

Finally, announce your new Website design. Submit press releases about the release of your new site. Redesigning or launching a Website is great news that should be shared with the media so you can get the proper recognition your Website deserves. Don't forget to change the Web address, if necessary, on law firm business products such as letterhead and business cards.

Sarah Van Cott, started her Web development back in 1999. She currently is the content development manager for WebJuris, an attorney Website design and legal marketing firm. Her career includes content development for SignOn San Diego, Law Info and the Santa Fe New Mexican.