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Company: Janet Flowers Designer Fabrics
Project: Marketing design services and products

http://www.flowersdesigndecor.co.uk

Dates: Apr 2007 to Jun 2007

How did the project start?

I always wanted to produce my own designs on fabrics, and promote myself successfully on the internet. I had a go at designing my website using Dreamweaver, but it wasn't perfect. I then took the spring course at Teesside University, which was creatively challenging, intensive, but highly enjoyable. After this course I was able to really make my website look the part of a designer from another discipline.

What options did you consider?

I considered that people want an easy to use website first and foremost with information to make an informed decision about whether they liked what they saw. Subconsciously people take in the brand and other elements as they look at a website. Basic information needs to be easy to read, easy to find out the essentials and a layout and colour which gave the message of what was being marketed. I also researched a few other websites just to see what was around in all sorts of industries.

What help and expertise did you receive?

I received additional technical help from the Spring Course at the University of Teesside; however I pulled together the experience as a graphic designer from Electrolux working on their global brands and my digital experience.

Did you face any challenges or learn any lessons?

You learn all the time with web design, as you are always one step ahead of yourself in terms of what you want and what your current skills will let you achieve, however this is part of a true designers skill set, in that he/she has to use what is available and produce the most creative and professional item they can from what they have. I have learned many lessons.

What are the outcomes and how has it improved your business?

The outcomes are that the website is now in good shape to present to the world, it forms the basis of marketing my products, and I intend to eventually sell online, with a shopping cart plus I now know the basics to improving search engine rankings purely by reseaching expert opinion on the internet.

What are your plans for the future?

A shopping cart, more useful free tips and hopefully something that people are going to want to come back to.