Starting a website is both exciting and quite daunting in an age when there is so much to choose from. Realistically you have a few choices – use a website builder, use a content management tool like WordPress or make a website from scratch.
Each option has it’s pros and cons. However, what is true in all cases is the fact that your online image can make or break your business.
Selecting the best website and design service
Selecting a website and design service that suits your own business requirements is a must (if you decide to go down that route). When it comes to choosing a website design and development firm, you’ll need to decide whether you want a full stack end-to-end digital agency, or a focused design and development team. Also your budget will make a BIG difference in who you can choose.
Thousands of web design companies to choose from if you decide to follow the path of creating a website. They can either start from scratch, or use a CMS, such as WordPress, and create their own website in this environment. With WordPress, you can create a new theme, or if you don’t like to reinvent the wheel, you can easily choose a professional theme.
When looking around for a UK based web design company all of the top 10 lists had US companies on them (instead of UK ones) which is frustrating as some of the companies (like Hibu) look great but don’t serve companies outside the USA. I’ve made sure to list some of the best website design and marketing companies inside the UK.
What Qualifies THE BEST Website & Design Service?
The best website and design service needs to be measured on a few criteria. Certainly their portfolio and key (famous) clients are important, however we feel that there are a few things you need to look out for. Before diving into our top 10 UK web design services, let’s go over the criteria.
1. Look Out For Awards
Web design companies must first and foremost have great design abilities and have won some awards. The top web awards include:
- Horizon Interactive Awards
- The Webby Awards
- The Interactive Media Awards
There are also a wealth of National Awards that are too many to mention.
2. A Key Focus on Innovation
Every year there are giant leaps forward in technology and the online space. Most recently the vast numbers of people using smartphones to view websites has altered web design and development. Therefore your website design company must be keeping up with the latest trends. An innovative technology company is continually disrupting and innovating.
Make sure that your chosen web design service offers responsive website design – meaning a website design that works well on mobile phones. Web design and development companies need to keep ahead of the latest trends and changes to ensure that their clients websites are kept up to date.
3. Wide Portfolio of Work
A web design company normally works in a wide range of industries. However, there are some industry specific companies that might have more insight in your particular industry. In general, we are looking for companies that serve a broad range of niches. A web design company is more likely to be able to meet the demands of your project if they have a strong and versatile portfolio of work.
4. Wide Range of Digital Services
In 2019 a web design company is expected to do more than simply web design. The best companies are offering full stack digital development in all areas of marketing, design and brand positioning.
5. Satisfied Customers
The best web design companies need to prove that their customers are happy with the service. Web design companies should have top tier clientele from well-known brands, a wide range of great feedback and some long standing accounts.
6. Expansion
Company growth and expansion is a key indicator of success. How many offices do they have? How many staff do they employ? Additionally the best web design and development companies need to be growing in revenue.
When looking for the best web design companies in the industry these are a few things to take into consideration.