You do not have to be a professional designer to launch a website. There is a much easier way that does not involve all that coding and knowledge. So, consider this as a web design process in 7 simple steps aimed at non-professional designers. If you lack the knowledge to create a website from scratch, this is definitely the guide to read. And without wasting any more time, this is how you approach the basic design process.
1. Consider The Niche Of Your Site
The best place to start is to think about the niche of your site. This is important because it provides you with a framework on how to go forward. For example, your niche will help you decide whether you should lean towards a casual or professional design. Also, research your audience and see what they like about the websites they visit. This information can help a great deal to launch the best site.
2. Research The Best Platform
There are so many platforms you can use to launch the site. The most popular has to be WordPress, mainly because it has a good reputation and it is very user-friendly. You do not require any special knowledge in order to use this platform to your advantage. Of course, there is a big difference between a basic and a professional site. But even a basic site can go a very long way.
3. Choose Your Domain And Platform
The domain name you choose is almost as critical as the design.
Take some time to brainstorm names that pop. Or at the very least, go with a domain name users will easily remember. But do not just pick any domain name just because you are in a hurry.
4. Research Free And Premium Themes
Once you are settled on a platform, like WordPress, it is time to choose a theme. WordPress is going to offer a wide variety of free themes you can install, and you can choose between premium options if you are willing to pay. Either way, there will not be a lack of options. Just remember the niche of your website and the users you are trying to attract. The theme you ultimately choose has to appeal to your audience.
5. Consider Paying A Professional Designer
Alternatively, you can hire a professional website designer. And as you can imagine, there are many benefits to working with an expert designer. For example, they can design a custom site according to your specific needs. This is not possible when you install a pre-existing theme. Also, a site designed from scratch is more unique, which helps if you are building a brand.
6. Install The Theme
After deciding whether to go with a free/premium site or to get one designed from scratch, you have to install the theme. If you are using WordPress, the installation should require one or two clicks. But take note if the site is responsive before you install it. You want the theme or design to accommodate all devices that try to access the site.
7. Make The Necessary Tweaks
Finally, go through the site and assess whether any tweaks are necessary. If you are using a free theme, chances are you will have to do some tweaking. But if you are using a professional, they will do the customization for you. Once the tweaks are done, you can consider your website ready for launch.
Just don’t forget to add content and media in order to flesh out the site. Otherwise, users are going to get bored very quickly and leave even quicker than they arrived.