The discovery call

Keep it simple

The goal is to keep things simple. It's impressive to see sites with all sorts of animations and effects, but most clients don't want that. If you go to a site to get information, contact, or order, the last thing you want is animations creating barriers. Use the K.I.S.S. method — Keep It Simple, Stupid.

Focus on the client's needs. Ask about their business. How do they acquire clients? Where are they now, and what are their goals? The site assists their business goals — it shouldn't be just another expense with little ROI. Websites are a tool that aids the business in acquiring leads, informing, and generating sales online. That's literally it.

Questions to ask every client

• What does your business do, and who is your ideal customer?
• Do you have an existing website? What do you like/dislike about it?
• What pages do you know you need? (Home, About, Services, Contact — minimum)
• Do you sell anything online? (eCommerce changes the entire scope)
• Who will manage the site after you hand it off?
• What's your timeline and budget?

Make sure the client knows you care about their business. They are not web developers, and websites can be a headache. Your job is to let them focus on their business while the site you build pays dividends.