Do web developers speak a different language?

ISME E-Business Survey report 2008 This weeks ISME e-business research indicates that more than 40% of businesses agree that ‘Web Designers try to confuse us with jargon’ and that ‘commissioning a website was a confusing and/or frustrating experience’.

Given that three quarters of businesses agree their website needs improvement is the pain of web development an unavoidable hazard? What can businesses do to bridge the language divide?

The research report suggests that SMEs should choose web developers with a proven track record for project management skills, delivery of best practice, accessible and attractive website design.

OK so I wrote the questionnaire. I had a few theories but never imagined that level of agreement with the jargon thing. Why do we do it?

I guess any web developers feel they are judged by displaying their knowledge of technology rather than their ability to translate business goals into successful online strategy.  This creates an unnecessary barrier between them and their client from the word go. Every week we are asked to help business people who have secured a perfectly good web developer but don’t understand what on earth they are talking about. It is important to make sure your web developer has the technical capabilities to undertake the job in hand but you should also look for a web developer who is capable of understanding your business and how search engines work, both of which are essential for a successful website.

Look at their portfolio but also talk to their previous clients, ask them about their own business experience. Agree timelines and ensure they and you stick to them. Check your body language and if you find yourself cringing at the technospeak – tell them firmly it is not impressing you and to please speak plain English! And if anyone catches me talking gobbledeook please bring me back down to earth….