MarketingVOX reports that according to AdWeek, the Forrester Wave report indicates that the demand for quality web design work continues to rise and that it is not a one-time peak. This is due to the realization that the Internet is playing a major, central role as an information resource and your company’s presence on the Internet is being critically judged. Companies have finally realized the importance that brand and image on the Web plays in their success and have increased their budgets to ensure they stand out. The result is an increase in revenue of at least 20 percent at most shops working in that space. The largest Web agencies, Forrester reports, have seen 40 percent top-line growth.

What does this mean for the smaller companies trying to compete?

It means you must take your image seriously and treat the effort with the same importance as all of your marketing efforts. It is time to stop undermining your marketing efforts by ignoring your brand. There are really good designers and Web developers available that can work within your budget. Don’t assume that the cost is out of reach. Speak with a smaller firm about your needs as many are willing to work with you and help you get what you need within your budget. Seek out someone who can help you break up the work into a plan that can be rolled out over time. It is actually better to start with a good design and build on top of it later.