So you've decided that you want to create or update a website. With all the choices available, how do you choose a web designer? Here's some ideas that anyone can use to help decide.

Plan your website

In order to pick a web designer, you'll need to come up with criteria that's relevant to your needs. For example, if your website will have a heavy focus on social networking, a designer with extensive experience in online shopping may not be your best choice. If you have a large website that needs done quickly, you may decide you want a full design firm; small or personal sites may be more cost effective when done through a freelance designer.

To determine the best fit for your goals, ask yourself the following questions:

• What is the purpose of your website?
• Who is your target market?
• Will your website be static or will things need to change?
• Will you be selling something via your website?
• Which of your competitors websites do you like?
• Which of your competitors websites do you dislike?
• How much do you want to spend on your website?

Creating a detailed blueprint for your website can help you and the designers you interview more accurately estimate the final product and price. Without this blueprint you could find yourself paying a lot of money for a website that doesn't really fit your needs.

Review web designers

Web design firms pop up like weeds overnight; how do you know your choosing the right one? Don't be afraid to interview, and don't be afraid to use more than one company to get the job done. Depending on the scope of your site you may decide that one company won't meet all your needs. While almost every designer will claim to be able to design and produce your website, you may find that one company excels in the creative process while another may have the experience you need in web development.

A web designer's experience is most easily reviewed through their portfolio. In addition to looking for experience in your industry, make sure that the designer style appeals to you. Look over websites they've created and take the time to play around with them. Ask for references and take the time to talk to their clients about their experiences.