It’s hard to excel at everything and still operate as efficiently as possible (as much as we’d like to!). And this realisation is what leads many companies into the market for a relationship with a web partner.

If you’re in the market for the first time – or the first time in a while – then it’s important to make yourself aware of the rules of the game (they’re constantly changing). Key considerations right now include social media, SEO, analytics and mobility to name a few.
A successful relationship will be founded on a good personality fit and a long term perspective. Engaging a web partner is like getting married and if you want the partnership to last, consider the following before the “I do’s”.

More than just a pretty face
Your website is the face of your organisation, so (let’s admit it) yes, looks are important – and it’s easy to get star struck by a flashy portfolio and the latest, greatest functionality. You need a sleek design that shows off your best assets, but you need brains behind that brawn! Creating a positive user experience equals a positive brand experience – and I don’t need to tell you how valuable that is. An engaging, interactive, intuitive user interface that helps your visitors achieve their end goal (information/purchase) will hit the sweet spot.

Look beyond the immediate future
Look for someone seeking a long term relationship who can offer you a strategic approach and can guide you along the way, helping you achieve higher level business goals and objectives throughout the lifetime of your website.

Sharing is caring
Be wary of those who guard their expertise. A web partner who cares enough about the success of your website will share their knowledge of the online arena with you, enabling and empowering you to compete competitively.

Easy is boring
Your web partner should be willing to challenge you. Rather than simply executing the ideas you bring to the table, your web partner should go above and beyond to add value by suggesting improvements and by offering new ideas you may not have previously considered.

Communication is key
Every good marriage is built on great communication. Before launch, clear communication and agreement on the goals and objectives the website should achieve is critical. Ideally, your web partner should work collaboratively with you to understand your business needs and industry requirements and the rest should follow, but its best not to make any assumptions.

Vision and imagination
For your partnership to be successful you have to both want the same things. Essentially both parties need to be passionate about the success of your website and your business in the long term. Be sure you’re on the same page before signing the dotted line. A company with integrity and values that fit with your own will usually make good headway. Remember, a website is not a one off project. A successful partnership requires hard work and commitment to continuous improvement, and you need to share the same vision for the future if it’s ever going to last.
Engaging With Imagination should allow you to tick all the boxes, and live happily ever after!
The end