contracting out sites

[Candice Benjes-Small]

When we redesigned our site, we contracted out for graphics and
javascript.  I know my strengths, and they are not in these areas!  They
created our homepage and a template for lower level pages.  We went back
and forth working out issues, but we are very pleased with the
outcome.   The site resides on our server and the outside center was only
involved until we launched the new site, so no loss of control has been
felt.  The only downside has been the changing of image maps has been a
hassle, but then, when is that _not_ the case?

Authoring programs can be a tremendous help, but not even the best can
make you into a graphic artist.  Ours came up with a look that
incorporated all of our ideas in an aesthetically pleasing way.  We were
very happy with our experience. 

Candice Benjes-Small
Information Specialist & Web Manager
Norris Medical Library
University of Southern California
benjes at usc.edu


>IN REPLY TO:
I'd be curious if any libraries out there have gone this route with any
success.  For some reason I shudder at the thought.  I'd imagine you'ld
still have all the same hastles as doing it in house (arguments over
style,
content, etc.) except it would cost you a lot more and you would lose a
lot
of control.  My hunch would be that investing in a little training and/or
an
authoring program like Frontpage or Dreamweaver would be a better idea in
the long run...

Just my 2 cents,

Mike Novak
Technology Coordinator & Reference Librarian