The last edition of this series stressed the importance of defining a mission for your business’s Web site. Once your goals are established, you can move to the next phase: design and development.

Creating The Framework

If you don’t have a background in Web design or programming, creating a site from scratch isn’t practical. However, there is no shortage of companies that can help generate a site, regardless of your experience.

There are two main types of developers, according to Nicole Madison, creative director of Primum Marketing Communications (www.primumagency.com), a Web design and marketing firm in Milwaukee, Wis. First, you can work with a company that will work directly with you to develop a site. She says the typical creative process with a firm involves working with a design team over several sessions to make sure they properly represent your vision through the site.

“From the project manager to the designers to the programmers, they will work with you to accomplish your goals,” Madison says. “Be prepared to answer many questions concerning navigation, audience, content and so on.”

She feels this is the best option because the creation is left up to the experts. “It holds fewer opportunities for you to make mistakes or go off track,” she believes. “A good partnering firm will guide you through the process of building a Web site and make sure it connects with your customers and stays true to your brand.”

The biggest drawback is money. She says the cost will…