Philosophy
Dear Potential Client,
As you probably realize, Web sites are complex projects with many objectives and constraints. Pages have to download quickly. In addition, they need to be interesting and pleasing to the eye, as well as, being functional. Sites have to reflect businesses as they currently operate, along with accommodating future changes. The technology also has to accommodate other designers who will in the future work on the site. How can all of this be met together?
The first step is in listening to the end user. Most users will tell you they want sites that are easy to understand and use. The time spent learning how to use a site is valuable. If the site is too difficult to navigate through, they could feel that they have just wasted time instead of doing something to better their business. These clients aren't necessarily in search of great art; they simply want information and convenience. Fast. This is why I employ and recommend standard interface designs, so users can concentrate on information, not on navigation.
Efficiency is an important consideration as well. Even though broadband access is becoming more widespread, fast download times are critical to capturing and holding viewers' attention. To maintain efficiency I manually code all of the sites I build to W3C standards. The quality of hand written code simply cannot be beaten. I utilize industry standard software to optimize images for the best clarity and speed. Finally, I use only a minimal amount of interactive features, just enough to create the desired effect. The result being viewers get the best experience possible with the least amount of time and hassles.
The second step is in listening to the client. Many have told me their businesses are constantly growing and changing, but they cannot afford to pay a lot to make their Web site grow at the same pace. To keep sites flexible and affordable for clients, I build sites in a modular fashion that allows changes to be made at a minimal cost. This allows clients, and their visitors to focus on site content instead of technical details.
Whenever I build a site, I like to think I'll be the only designer working on it. On the other hand, I'm realistic enough know that this most likely won't be the case. Therefore, I use non-proprietary technologies so that other designers and programmers can update sites just as easily as I can. I also keep the architecture as clean, simple and organized as possible to make the job go quickly for anyone else.
I have over four years of experience building Web sites, and listening to the people involved. I hope you will give me the opportunity to listen to what you have to say, and put my experience to work for you.
Sincerely,
Bill Loughlin
Copyright © 2001-2006 by Bill Loughlin.
