Web design, done properly
I've been building websites for nearly 30 years, I love to help new and small businesses with websites and SEO. Read my reviews on Google.
I make nice things for the Internet
I make websites for small businesses and individuals, people who genuinely need a bit of help and appreciate some plain English advice to get them going. The world of technology moves fast, and understanding some basics will help you to help yourself. I can explain it all to you.
I'm familiar with a range of platforms like WordPress, Craft CMS, Webflow etc, but generally go for whatever fits your budget and comfort level (in case you want to edit it later). As a lifelong technologist I know that one site does not fit all, so I'll help you choose the right one. I tend not to recommend platforms like Duda and Wix, generally because of the clumsy developers you come across who work on them.
I can offer a complete managed digital service if that's what you want: website, mobile app, social media, custom software etc. I can help you compete and operate across all these platforms to help promote and increase visibility of your business. I can also advise about leading practice to improve the on-site and off-site “findability” of your website, plus I can take on the management of your website too if that's what you need.
I can create a bespoke solution or something simpler if you’re watching the pennies. Rest assured every single job gets the same level of attention and quality, whatever the budget.
'Good design, when it's done well, is invisible' -- Jared Spool
Websites are communication tools – they provide information and guidance about your product and service. That’s why I design websites with the user experience in mind; when someone visits your website they shouldn’t have to think what to do. They should be able to find the information they need quickly and easily in order to achieve the outcome they want.
My aim is to create a website that is so easy to use, so useful and usable, that your visitor doesn't notice it. Their focus is on what your product or service is about, and nothing else.
Features you need, nothing you don’t
My websites are Google friendly and are outcome-focused. Every one includes these features as standard:
Site editor so you can update your own content — add pages, images, text or menus when you want to (WordPress and Google Sites)
Responsive design so your website layout adapts to different sized screens automatically
Search Engine Optimised to improve performance in web, local and voice search
Contact forms so customer enquiries go straight to your inbox
Fast loading to give you zippy page-load times (Google loves that)
Professional web copywriting to make sure your message is crisp and clear
Social media integration to improve marketing visibility
Google analytics to identify your most effective marketing channels
Hosting on some of the world’s most advanced infrastructure
Website care plans to keep on top of content updates, security upgrades, solve riddles and generally hold your hand whenever you're faced with the fiddly stuff.
Quality solutions designed and built by a professional
I use WordPress to build websites. WordPress is the worlds most popular content management system, so popular it powers 30% of the web. I host websites on AWS infrastructure, (not shared hosting), and I follow a proven process to optimise your website for performance, search and resilience.
If you want something simpler I can use Google Sites. Google Sites is free software that allows you to edit a website like a Word document. It's a little more limited in terms of functionality, but perfectly functional and extremely cost effective. Generally I don’t use drag and drop site-builders like Wix, Duda or Squarespace, because they’re aimed at the end user – you can do that yourself.
Tip: if your web developer is using a sitebuilder ask what additional value they’re adding. What else are you actually paying for? If you’re not happy, speak to me.
I see too many websites built by amateurs that are actually detrimental to the business they’re trying to serve. Don't make the same mistake.
Customer service focused
If you work with me you’ll stay informed every step of the way. Once we agree the scope and content of what it is you need, I can crack on. I’ll need your help with design input on images, fonts, colours and stuff, but you’ll have access to a secure demo version as I build it. I’ll be clear on what I need you to do, and when I need it, if we’re to stick to timelines, estimates and plan.
I can accommodate minor change but if you fundamentally change what you want then I’ll let you know if there’s an impact on cost. You don’t work for free, and nor do I.
When we launch your website we’ll make sure you know about the good things you can do to help increase the number of visitors. We only use Google-approved methods, but you’ll learn some useful tips to help yourself in future. Rest assured its not over once your website goes live.
Maybe you need something else?
If you need something that you don’t see here, just ask. If you need custom coding, tech guidance or just want some good advice, that’s no problem. I’d rather sell you nothing at all than something you don’t need.
I’ve worked in technology for more than 30 years , have a suite of technical certifications and won design and industry awards for my work. If you’re serious about your online presence then speak to me – I’m confident I can find a solution that works for you and your budget.
Drop me a line and I’ll try to help if I can. Have a great day!
Think we could work together?
If you think I can help with your project, please drop me a line. Always happy to have an obligation free chat and who knows, we both might learn something.