In addition, because of our real-world, strategic approach to our clients' needs, we often implement web presence using a staging strategy, where we think through a strategic plan, and implement tactical phases working up to longer-term objectives. For example, clients often find it beneficial to use the web site as a means to directly support the enterprise by looking for additional revenue streams. However, before that can happen, we have to create value on the site itself, so that visitors will come.

The web is fun, and it should be. But it is also business, and there is a marked difference between websites that are designed to show off web widgets, and those designed with function and the needs of the end user in mind. We favor fast load times, compelling content, selective and high-impact use of graphics.

There is also a temptation by people just discovering this technology in the last few years, to overdesign websites, just because it's possible. The really large sites have recently been going through a retrofit, to go back to cleaner, faster-loading, less gimicky designs and more value. Our clients have found that we're good with balancing substance, with just the right amount of pizzazz.

At Interactive By Design, we are also way beyond the "Build it, and they will come!" fantasy. Understanding the web search engines, and the inside scoop on how to get maximum exposure is a science in itself. We have studied extensively on that issue, and keep current weekly through subscription services with experts on changes to search engine "scoring" parameters. Not only that, but the idea is to create a reason for them to return to your site again and again and again, and ways for them to learn about your site that transcend the exclusive online world, and penetrate other non-computer avenues in the "real world."