10 Characteristics of Excellent Portfolio Sites

by d4d on December 11, 2008

in Webdesign

Recently we looked at the characteristics of effective blog theme design, and I’d like to take a similar look at the portfolio sites of freelance designers.

A designer’s online portfolio is a critical part of the business, and in some cases the most valuable asset of the business.

A good portfolio site is a constant lead-generation tool, but what is it specifically that makes a great portfolio site?

1. Clear Communication

A portfolio site should clearly and concisely communicate with visitors about the services that are provided and what the designer has to offer to potential clients. Because there are so many different types of design and various specializations, it’s not safe to assume that visitors will have a clear understanding of the services that are offered without them being communicated.

The purpose of a portfolio site is to show the work of the designer and to attract new clients. However, without a website that communicates effectively with visitors, it’s unlikely that visitors will make the extra effort to contact the designer about potential work.

Tony Geer not only has an attractive portfolio site, but he also uses prime screen real estate to quickly tell visitors what he offers and allows them to contact him or browse through his work.

Leigh Taylor has a little badge on her site that lets visitors know that she is currently available for work.

Some freelance designers choose to post prices on their portfolio site, whether it’s an hourly rate or project-based pricing, and others choose not to post prices. Whichever method you choose, it should be communicated clearly on the site. If you’re using set prices, the details of services provided and what fits into those packages should be listed and explained, if necessary.

If you’ve decided not to display prices, which is the choice of most freelancers, it should be clearly stated to visitors how they can get more information about services and pricing, or perhaps get a quote for their specific needs. Most freelancers accomplish this by simply asking the visitor to complete a contact form that may help to get some of the details of the project in order to get a quote.

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