Web design for the financial industry varies quite widely. Some sites simply off information about finances, educating the public about their financial options. Other sites simply exist as a way for industry professionals, such as accountants or financial advisors, to advertise their services.

Whatever style of website you need, web designers for financial services industry clients will do their best to create a site that fits your needs and your budget. However, even though you may hire a financial industry web designer, you still need to do a certain level of work by yourself.

Some things that you should decide before you meet with potential web designers for the financial industry are:

1. Who writes the copy for the website? Some financial industry web designers provide copywriting services at an additional cost. This is great for small businesses that don't have the ability to create their own.

2. How will your customers use your website? You may have an information-only site or allow customers to access their money and investments, depending on the type of business you offer.

3. What do you want the site to look like? If you're not sure, browse other industry sites to get some ideas.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use templates for information-based financial industry web design

A website that primarily exists for information does not need a lot of the extras that other sites may require. If you want to save money, you can easily purchase a template to suits your needs. With careful modification, it will reflect your ideas.

I recommend: Entheos offers a number of templates that are ideal for those in the financial industry. FlashMX-Templates has templates that use the popular Flash program. This creates a site design that many people find more appealing.

Choose web designers for financial services industry clients

A designer that has experience in financial services web design is often the best choice. These professionals can help guide your in your site design, even if you're not sure what you are looking for yourself.

I recommend: Alta Street has experience designing websites for several clients in the financial industry. Take a look at their extensive portfolio. Magnetic can also create your website.

Hire an SEO expert for financial services web design

Having a great website is just the first step in securing customers. You also want them to be able to find you when searching the Internet. If a search engine optimization specialist creates your site, you are more likely to have top placement in the search engines.

I recommend: Contact dzine it for a wide range of web services, including web design for the financial industry search engine optimization. Alternatively, lvlogic claims to provide a return on investment that's "almost magic."

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't forget to ask for references from any financial services web design firms that you are thinking of hiring. A company may have a great looking portfolio, but you need to be sure that they are professional and will meet deadlines.