[crossrhythm]

Hi...I'm sure this is a common question, but hopefully someone can give me some helpful info. I am looking to move a few of my projects online, and want to do the web design myself. I have no experience in web design, but am very computer proficient...what software can you recommend? Is it possible to create really fantastic looking sites with Dreamweaver, and would it be too complicated for someone with no experience to learn? Is there some software that is easier but is a little more interactive than just filling in text boxes in pre-designed templates?

I'm not looking to hire a web designer, so please don't offer your services here. Thanks!

ALSO...I should add that if you have created a site using dreamweaver or another comparable program, could you post a link to it so I could just see what's possible with programs like it? Thanks again..

[Chris B]

Honestly, unless you have the experience, it is hard to create a "very fantastic web site" but don't let that get you down. I have been a web designer for 5 years and I have a lot of experience in the field. Usually, without a mentor, progression towards a skill level that is both useful and produces great results is hard.

If you are looking to skip all the learning, and jump right into some great web designs your best bet might be getting a template and using Dreamweaver. But if you want to pursue learning some more I am here to help you out!! Let me know if you need anything and best of luck!

[jmeijers]

Like the post above, I would advise you to not do it yourself. Building a 'fantastic website' includes HTML, CSS and Javascript programming and if you're not a programmer, don't get into that stuff.

Dreamweaver does NOT create great websites. No matter what others say, it just doesn't. Please take this from me, I have 10 years experience in building websites and webapplications.

If you just want to do the design, I would suggest doing that in Photoshop and handing over the graphics to the webprogrammer. If you want to also make a prototype, which would be a good idea if the site is somewhat larger, I would suggest using Axure RP (an easy find on Google).

Since you are 'computer proficient' I would guess that neither Photoshop nor Axure will prove a big challenge to you.

[BLewis]

like the above it will be hard to make a fantastic site first time round, but ive been playing with sites for 4years now and i new nothing about them, infact i knew nothing about computers either, everything ive ever done in these fields is down to trail and error and now people are seeing my work and paying me to do there sites!

best advice for you, dont try and build a template from scratch buy a pre made one and edit it to your company!

if you would like to see some templates ive got a few hanging around much much cheaper than good old template monster, pm me if your intrested

ben

[Alexishost]

the simple solution for you is Soholaunch site builder

[peteVA]

There are thousands of templates available, many free. Here's a place to start - Download free CSS templates - Free CSS Templates

You can use these as a base and modify as you wish.

[hippie_wantab]

I did my very first website in Dreamweaver - Natural Health - focus on natural cleaners, Finger Lakes outdoor fitness and saving money by being green. It's pretty good but not fantastic. I don't even promote this site, never even fixed the spelling errors. But it was a good experience and Dreamweaver is a pretty basic program to learn with just a walk-through book

[abeer]

i think you can try artisteer
this sof will be easy for you...
here is the link www(.)artisteer(.)com

[ameeker]

I totally disagree with everyone above. You can use WORDPRESS to create amazing sites on your own. If you can write an email or make a Word doc, you can use WordPress.

Check it out at www dot wordpress dot org.

Read this entire next paragraph before you stop - I'm in the process of writing an ebook for beginners on how to use WordPress - I expect to be done in the next week. If you would like to see for yourself how easy it is to get started, I'd be happy to forward to you what I have done already, for free, if you will also dialog with me about what you think about it so far.

Many companies, small and large, use WordPress. To see examples, visit the Showcase link at wordpress dot org.

You can learn more about me, and follow the release of the ebook at www dot mynameisangie dot com.