As an experienced web design project manager, I have managed the design, development, implementation, and launch of many different websites. Throughout this time I have learned of many valuable lessons. I am not a designer or developer, I am merely the project manager that ensures that the project goes smoothly, on time, and on budget from start to finish. Some of the specific skills I have learned include working with designers, working with developers, and managing the client?s expectations.

Working with designers can be fun and challenging. I am not an artistic person; I merely know when I see something I like. The designers I work with are very talented and do great work. The tips that I can recommend for working with designers include managing expectations and being very specific about what the client likes and does not like. The first thing I ask the client for is a list of sites that they like and why. The second thing I ask for is a list of a few sites that they don?t like and why. I immediately provide these to the designer so that he or she can get a feel for the clients taste.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that designers will sometimes render something in their design that cannot be done with code. It is important as you move along to always question what they?ve designed can be coded properly. The last that you want is to have a beautiful design that the client loves and then to learn that a critical piece cannot be coded. You will get a feel for this after you do many projects, but in the beginning it would be smart to always check with your developer if you are unsure of something.

When working with developers it is important to be very organized, descriptive, and clear in exactly what you?re requirements are for the project. If it is a small project you may not need a requirements traceability matrix, but you will definitely need this document on larger projects. This ensures that the requirements for the coding of the project are well documented and that the developer can check them off as he is developing. Communications is critical in ensuring that the project is developed properly.

Possibly the hardest part of launching a web site is dealing with the client. Some clients are very low maintenance while other clients are very hands on and know exactly what they want and force you into a box. It is your job to work with the client and gain trust from them that you know how to do a good job. Constant communication throughout the process is key in gaining and keeping the trust. You want the client to always be informed and to see progress happening so that they know their project is moving along and on schedule.

The more projects that you work on, the more you will learn about the do?s and don?ts of web design project management. I have loved every aspects of this job, from just kicking around ideas to implementing a full blown corporate website, everything has been fun. If you enjoy wed designed or if you have a background in project management, you should consider doing web design project management as a side business or as a fulltime job.

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