Onsharp

People often use the terms "web design" and "web development" interchangeably. But, they're two distinctly different things. Put simply: 

Web design = what you can see

Web development = what you can do

(You can learn more about the differences and get a chuckle by viewing this link: Designers vs. Developers. It's funny because it's true!

Conducting Internet searches for design and development resources is common. If you search for web design, it's likely your results will include links to marketing design firms. At the end of your design project you'll have a mock up of what your website or app will look like. That's great, but now what? 

The designer will let you know you need to find a developer to create your website or app. Or maybe they'll have an in-house developer, but his or her services will require additional costs above what you already spent on design. 

Let's go back to the original question once again. Did you mean web development? 

If you search for web development, it's likely your results will include links to full-service firms that offer the complete package of design and development. (Design will be included in the project cost because you can't develop anything without first designing it.) Solid, experienced firms typically will employ an Information Architect who will work with the designer and developer(s) during early stages to ensure content and processes are organized intuitively so your customers have positive, productive experiences. The result will be a website or app that looks good, works well, and keeps your customers coming back!

Since many of your customers are used to completing several tasks per day online, like banking, shopping, and researching, they're going to expect to see time-saving, self-service functionality on your site. Yes, your site will support your marketing strategies, but it also should extend your business processes to the Internet to provide value and strengthen loyalty amongst your customers. Doing so will definitely require both design and development. To get the most bang for your buck start your search with web development. 

You'll get your nice-looking cake and be able to eat it, too. Yum!