Request:
I am the manger of communications for a nonprofit organization, looking for a web designer who can help me create a new site.
I have some web design experience and have built a few sites but I'm looking for a professional who can help me set up a more complex site which I will maintain. I'd like to be able to go to them from time to time if I have any trouble with the site. It has to be someone who is easy to work with, reliable, and available during the work day. I'd also need someone who is patient with my somewhat limited understanding and ability.
It would also be a plus to find someone willing to offer me some limited amount of training/support, which we would pay for. Not a bunch, but if we work well together and it helps me with my daily updates of the site that
would be great (but not necessary).
I am hoping to find someone who is also willing to offer us a nonprofit rate since we do not have that big of a budget for this--though we do want to adequately pay you for your work.
If you or someone you know is interested, please send a resume, your rates, your availability.
Response:
One immediate question is does the nonprofit have its own server? In that case, maintenance might include working with/hiring a web design firm/person who can maintain the server (or the nonprofit may have that contracted already).
Training is another subject. You don't say for what you need training, which will refine your search and interview process a bit, as well as give those who respond, especially with, as you ask, a resume and rates, a better opportunity to tailor our responses to fit your needs and your budget.
You mention you have some design skills while at the same time stating you are limited in understanding and ability. Specifically mentioning the skills you lack (i.e., CSS, scripting) and the skills you need (graphic design or web coding), will get you to the right person quicker -- and save those firms who are considering your RFP time and energy if they can't meet your needs.
Budget is another subject altogether. If there is no budget created, do so immediately. The budget process will focus the nonprofit on its goals for the web site, as well as what is actually needed and what can be built/designed for the future.
As a communications manager, you know the necessity of well-written content, developed for the web. This may be another skill to add to your RFP. You also know the value of a good marketing plan (both on and off line). I don't see these mentioned in your request. It is critical to a good web site and the time and money spent on creating it, to know how to publicize it to the world -- as well as to understand its function and what action visitors are expected to take.
Posted by email from Broadside (posterous)
