Hi Guys,

 

I have just had a conversation with a potential client through skype.

 

The client wants a website for a hotel that he is buying this week. :bangb:

 

Normally when I discuss a project with a client I try to get an idea of the type of sites they like, a colour scheme they have in mind etc etc.

 

This particular client however responded to my question about a colour scheme etc that it didnt matter as long as it was professional he was sure it would be ok?

 

Do people work like this?

 

I am really interested to know what kind of information you try and get out of new clients before you sit down at a computer or sketch pad and start working on a design?

 

Or are you happy to work on an anything professional basis?

 

Looking forward to hearing your techniques and ideas on this.

 

Cheers

 

CyberWizard

Although Ive never really done this, but I would say do what every business does with clients.

 

Get them to write down any specifics they want and both of you confirm them. When you have done the site, he cant go moaning about stuff he never asked for

Yes, if this is the case you suggest a couple of colour schemes and show him the colour palettes of each. Get him to choose one of the options and then you know the direction your going in.

 

Some people just can't visualise in their head how things will look and so a little bit of a multiple choice helps them greatly.

 

Everyone loves multiple choices!

First question I ask a customer: What the heck do you need a web site for?

Thanks for the advice guys.

 

I also start with why do you need a site but then I try and get an idea of sites they like the look of and if they have a colour scheme in mind or any existing branding in place.

 

I was thrown a curve ball today when the client to any question about style or look with anything professional!

 

Would you rather have a clean slate to start from or more of a guide from the client?

I prefer clients that let you make the design choices. There's nothing worse than trying to come up with something nice when you've got to work with an ugly logo and a bunch of colours that should never be seen together on the same screen.

 

Having said that I do like to get at least a few examples of sites they like as it does give you an idea of where to start and what your aiming for.

Redacted.

A client like this will often be a headache but a good place to start is with their closest rivals because i guarantee the first thing they'll do (if they have any sense that is) when they purchase a new buisness is research the rivals.

 

Apart from this you just really have to immerse yourself in the nature of the clients buisness and put yourself in the shoes of a potential customer. It is time consuming but i guess this is what real design is.

 

Good luck