How did you get into web design?

I have always been a creative person; originally I was more of an artist rather than a designer - drawing and stuff like that but gradually just started to become more digitally based. I studied multimedia design at university so that probably sparked it all off.

Do you remember the very first website you designed?

Unfortunately.

Describe how your work process usually flows, how do you like to start, what are the key points to consider, etc.?

Usually I try to get as much information from each client as possible ? this becomes easier over time as you see more and more clientele. So depending on the project you know what to ask for. It's always a good start point so you know what direction to go in and reduce amends. I would like to say that I start out sketching ideas on paper, but that's not always the case. 9 times out of 10 I do but sometimes I just go straight onto the PC and start brainstorming ideas and experimenting in the deep end. I try to experiment as much as possible and cover all avenues. From there it's just a case of developing.

Do you submit your design works to showcase sites for reviews? How much does other people's opinion matter to you? Has anybody ever told you anything negative about your website? How do you deal with criticism?

I don't usually send out my clients work to showcases. Other peoples opinions do matter and I make sure that each site or piece of work I craft gets plenty views and opinions. I have a good set of critics that I always go to. It is important to get outside views sometimes, but not too many though as you can't please everyone every time.

Where do you get your art for these webpages?

I try to use 100% original material every time; whether it be taking pictures myself or even if it requires hiring a professional photographer. Other imagery such as backdrops and vectors etc. I make where and when required.

Why do you think CSS design is becoming so popular among web designers?

Not too sure, I'm not much of a coder. I guess really in the world of coding it's just makes designing and updating a hell of a lot more convenient.

What will be the next big development in webpage design?

Not a clue, but if I did I don't think I would say! I would like to think it would be something in the way of improving flash to integrate with search engines? I don't know, we'll just have to wait and see.

What do you think about Flash technology?

It's awesome, notonly is it unique to website design, I also tend to use it for the freedom and find it really comfortable to experiment withfor e.g. making logos or even just using it for some of the tools that aren't available elsewhere. It?s great. If it weren't around I don't think I would be a designing for web.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Flash?

Advantages: there are loads - Brings multimedia, animation,sound to the web along with creative freedom... Disadvantages: not the best tool to use to integrate with search engines and constant plug-in upgrades.

If you could eliminate one trend from the Web, what would it be? Why?

Nothing. Everyone is entitled to there own views,opinions and styles. A trend is something that comes and goes.

What do you think of XHTML 5 and JavaScript standardization under W3C?

Personally, I'm not a coder - I'm sure it has its use and is good to some. To each his own.

What does 'clean interface' mean to you?

Design wise: a clear, concise navigation and layout. Simple and easy to use by all parties.

What language do you use for coding? Why?

I am able to code in HTML, XHTML, and action script if need be. But 9 times out 10 don't. I am a designer before a coder / developer.

Tell us about your use of colors in your designs.

Usually depends on the project. There's always some sort of corporate branding to incorporate, but if it's a free reign I try and use a couple of complementing colors; the use of colors can make or break a project so it's important to spend a bit of time on this part and get it right.

You're a web designer and a creative person - describe the creative process and how you stimulate yourself?

If I am working on a project that I like, then I don't have to. I find being comfortable and in a good environment always helps a project to go well. I always work with music. In solving problems what kinds of process or guides do you use. If I'm stuck on something I don't know, then I take a bit of time out and do some research on that particular topic. I'm the type of person that can't relax if I don't solve the problem I'm stuck on, so no matter what I'm doing ? I'll always be thinking about it at the back of mind and how it can be solved. A close friend once told me ?persistence is a hall mark of a champion' So that thought always stays close by.

What are your sources of inspiration?

Too many to list. Can be here forever making lists of inspirational material.

What are your favorite website designs that you did and did NOT design yourself?

There are loads of websites I like all backed up in my favorites. Anything that's just really thought about and creative - usually all the ones on: http://www.bestflashanimationsite.com/ or http://www.thefwa.com/.

What was the toughest project or customer situation you've encountered?

One of my earlier ones; a really stubborn client who wouldn't budge on anything. Usually if the client is really stubborn or shitty-minded, I won't do anything for them but this client circumstances were different. He wanted this, that and everything but didn't want to pay for it ? so after a hard negotiation we settled on a price to suit both parties. I started work on the site and the client just couldn't make up his mind, too many changes, going back and forth. This caused massive delays. But this was good in the sense that you can learn from the situation and avoid it in the future i.e. if I were to charge for each amend, I would bet there wouldn't be as many... Everyone thinks they can be a designer.

What were the mistakes you learned from most while in the web design industry?

Not so many mistakes because you're constantly learning; learning how to talk to clients, setting up projects, new design skills, tricks etc. So I don't really look at anything like that.

What is it you most like and dislike about being a web designer?

Likes: The fact I get to be creative as I want, and get paid for what I love doing most. Also when you've spent a lot of time and effort on a project and it goes live / get published, it s a good feeling. The reaction of a client when you've really hit the nail on the head and exceeded expectations is great. Dislikes: The fact that most people / clients think they can design. They might be paying you to do a project so they think they can bully and tell you that there right and you're wrong. You might do something that you spent a lot of time on and it looks great, but then you get an amend which you know it will ruin your design.

You've worked with many people. What makes for a good web team?

Communication, a good vibe and sense of humor among the members, understanding, honesty, organization and an equal effort.

What blogs or magazines would you suggest reading in order to broaden one's knowledge?

Design mags: Creative Review, Photoshop, Designer Weekly, Designmeltdown, Bestflashanimationsite, thefwa.

What advice would you give to beginning web designers?

1. Study your craft: put in the time and be patient.

2. Don't hold back: do what you want and feel is right. Dream and be as creative as you want to be. Be different and make each piece mind blowing. Also try and take the positives out of each criticism.

3. Pay your dues: not every idea is original and we all need a helping hand sometime, so give respect where it's due.

4. Step your game up: raise the bar a little each time. It's the only way to get better.

Thank you, Kultar, for your opinions and experiences in design.