Yesterday I stumbled upon the newly redesigned — sans Kyle Cooper from what I hear — Imaginary Forces’ web site. Two weeks ago I also saw Landor’s revamped web site. Much needed for both firms. Was it a business decision? Or, being Design Firms, is it just pure vanity? I’m not judging, just asking.
Which got me thinking…
How important is the online presence of a design firm? I already know it’s a must these days, but really, what are some direct benefices you have experienced in your business from having a web site? I would love to hear how a large firm benefits from their web site as opposed to a solo designer.
Another question to consider when creating a web site is how do you approach it? Do you make it funny? Straightforward? Experimental? Or just plain silly?
And while I have your attention, here are some firms in need of a redesign: Tomato* (sorry Graham, it’s time), Jennifer Sterling Design, Milton Glaser’s (we love you, but there is a need for better archiving of your work online) and Bruce Mau’s (give us something to look at, not everybody can afford Life Style).
* Damn it, I have to eat my words — they are redesigning.
I'm not really sure how much large firms directly benefit from a web presence in terms of getting work, as most clients are obtained and retained through presentations, marketing and the efforts of the new business folks in the firm.
For a small firm, it can directly help get clients by simply having a nice, simple portfolio online. Makes it a lot easier to snag the odd client in casual social run-ins by mentioning the site or handing them a card saying 'check out the work we've done' type of pitch.
All types of firms can benefit from having an online client/project management system, though, again, this seems to be a bit more useful with the smaller firms (who simply have less people on both sides as decision makers).
As for how to approach it, just make it reflect your firm's personality, and, if you truly want it to be a marketing tool, skip all the self indulgent bells and whistles. (unless you are trying to sell self indulgent bells and whistles) ;o)
As for my site? Umm...yea...I REALLY need to get that server back up and running...
On Aug.13.2003 at 09:40 AM