The world has witnessed a revolution in the use of internet-related technology. An increase in the application of information technology in different fields has opened avenues for business and government organizations. The number of people using the Internet, whether to get information, buy products, book reservations or search for a job, is constantly rising. All this has created the need for customized websites.
Web design includes the design of web pages, websites and web applications. The first web designer, Tim Berners-Lee is known as the inventor of the World Wide Web. He put the first web site on the Internet in August 1991 and was the first to combine Internet based communication with hypertext.
Custom website design process includes designing, creating, testing and maintaining the web pages of a website. Web designers are sometimes just graphic artists, though most use the language, hyper- text markup language, extensively. Web designers must be effective communicators with the ability to understand concepts and ideas and translate them into their web site design. They create high performance websites using a variety of elements such as e-commerce, visual design, search engine optimized content, strategic layout and advertising.
A customized website is designed by specialized firms to form a good first impression on customers, build brand recognition and sell products and services. Companies need to supply content related information to the website which may include company information, product information, list of services offered, job opportunities, contact addresses and pictures.
After finishing the design process, the final product is sent to the client for approval. The next step involves website promotion activities such as press releases and online web promotion. An attractive website is an important marketing tool. Expenses incurred in the design process should be treated as investment that will ensure maximum returns in the future.