The Best Website In The World

I was recently approached by a long time friend who would like me to get involved with some projects he’s working as both a technology consultant and web design/hosting provider. I am very interested in the work that they are doing and think it’s very important. However, he made a comment to me that has had me thinking ever since. He wants me to build “the best website in the world.”

I’m not sure what this means exactly, because good web design is very much in the eye of the beholder. I have been given links to people who consider themselves “Web Designers” and they are little more than code monkeys. Some of them were so awful I was almost offended to be considered in the same class. I try not to be a snob about my code, but I work hard at making it work properly and compliant. I’m rarely accused of taking the shortcuts on designing a website. (Though, I do think using a CMS system is a bit of a short cut I’ll admit)

The issue as I see it is that websites are very much like just about everything in life, very subjective. I think that what this person said isn’t really what they mean. They want a top notch, website that is compatible and easy to access information. But the statement still sticks. There is no “best website in the world.” Mainly because there just isn’t anything to measure against and there are so many FANTASTIC designers out there that are continually pushing the edge with design and usability. So even if there were a “best website in the world” tomorrow, it would be replaced by the next best. That’s just how the web works.

In the end I think I know what this particular client is looking for, even if they can’t say exactly what it is. I just know that I’m not sure who the person is to design “the best website in the world”, but I’m pretty sure it isn’t me.