By using the SWOT analysis system I have objectively analysed two design agencies websites so see whether what they communicate to the viewer is informal enough and covers everything a potential client would want to see. I was also looking for any innovative ideas, be it in production methods, promotion or moral stance that may give them a competitive advantage.
Type in motion is a Leeds based design agency. Their homepage clearly reflects their design capabilities with their collage/cut-out student style. They are obviously competent with image and type as well as corporate identity. Their student aesthetic may well give them competitive advantage, as Leeds is widely considered to be a student city. However they are located in Wetherby, a 30 min drive from the city centre. This is not too bad, however a little closer would be better.
Imagery & Design is a design agency based in Hertfordshire. (my home county). This website is run by a one-man design company. His website covers almost everything you couldn’t possibly want to hear, maybe too much in fact. Everything moves and interacts with the user, which is a good thing. It is clean-cut a professional looking. It has the apple glossy aesthetic. There are clear indications of services that are offered with tab links at the top to website design and graphic design. Further down the homepage there are clear and concise lists informing potential clients who he is, what he does, how he does it and why they should choose him.
Imagery & Design certainly have all the bases covered more so than Type in Motion. I was not left looking for information on his company, it was all very accessible.
Type in Motion regard themselves as ‘undaunted, confident and secure’ with a wide range of disciplines and offer a diverse range of design solutions across both digital and printed media. This gives the impression that they have a good attitude toward their work and also have access to production resources. However by the same degree, Imagery & Design are also very confident and also have an air of professionalism about them, and the examples of their work speak for themselves.
The strongest part of Type in Motion’s website is their environmental awareness page. It covers design solutions to environmental implications such as resources, materials, choice of printers, delivery and journey costs. Their ideology of environmental awareness reflects their websites aesthetic. Imagery & Design does not seem to have much of a morale stance. His website simply suggests he is a reliable, professional designer, so quite possibly these matters will be considered anyway.
The large defining factor between the two is a few small typos on Type in Motion’s website. This is a very large issue for a design company who will be dealing with type. If a job is sent through to the printer with a typo it costs them more money and the client more time. Ultimately they will not be used again.
The main difference between the two agencies is that Type in Motion lacks visual exemplification of their existing work. Whereas Imagery & Design have a fully developed portfolio for each area of design, be is website, brochure, logo or corporate identity. If a potential client cannot see what they might get as a result they will try another agency immediately.
Other Issues that I should think about for my own website:
- Prices for standard jobs
- Moral implications
- Location
- Portfolio (downloadable)
- Interaction
- Innovative elements/ideas
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