Should I Hire a Web Designer, Buy a template, or Take an Online Course?
So you need a website, and you’re not sure what option will be best suited for your small business? Or maybe you are a solopreneur, are just getting started and don’t have a big budget! You need something that is professional and elegant, is responsive (works well on all platforms including mobile) and provides your customer with a unique experience - not run of the mill. Deciding whether to hire a web designer, buy a template, or take an online course on web design will depend on a few things including your professional and individual goals, your budget, resources, and skill level. Fear not! Let's explore your options.
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1. Hire a Web Designer:
Hiring a web designer comes with many advantages and some disadvantages. Not long ago, this was your only option. Finding a designer can be tricky. There’s google, but you may just get the ones that advertise and maybe not the ones that would ultimately be a good fit. You might be able to ask friends or family for a referral. I personally wouldn’t reccomend services like Fiverr or Upwork. It appears these services are overloaded with the cheapest or cheap, and make me think you will ultimately get what you pay for. I could be wrong, I haven’t used their services, and don’t know anyone who has, but if you can find a good fit, professional web designers are worth their weight in gold! They can very quickly and effeciently get you a professional website that at the end of the day will just be better in many ways to what you could get out of template or if you decide to DIY. My expertise is just valuble and it will show. Check out my services page to consider working with me on your next project!
When to Consider:
If you have specific design requirements or need a highly customized website that only a web designer will have the knowlege and skills to execute.
When you want a professional, polished, and unique web presence.
If you have a budget that allows for professional design services.
Advantages:
Customization: A web designer can create a website tailored to your exact needs and brand identity. At 9inedesign, we can create a new brand for you or work with your existing brand identity.
Expertise: Web designers have technical skills and experience to ensure your website functions smoothly and depending on their design skills, it can look stunning, exceding your expectations.
Time Savings: Hiring a designer can save you time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business. I can turn around a site in two weeks, depending on various factors.
Considerations:
Cost: Professional web design services will be more expensive than the other options. We offer a small business package for $2995. I try to price according to what a small business may be able to afford, I in no way charge and much as many!
Collaboration: Effective communication with your designer is essential to ensure they understand your vision. Some can intuitively understand your business goals, some can’t.
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2. Buy a Template:
Buying a template is the most cost effective solution by far. Our templates at 9inedesign are super sexy and professional. They will look great on mobile, tablets, laptops, and desktops! And for $297, they are a steal considering they are essentially a Pro website made by a seasoned Pro! There are many other places you can find templates to varying degree of quality. Spend some time looking around, and if you have questions, reach out to the designers. One thing to look out for is how much support you will receive. Some templates come with NO instructions. Others will come with instructions that may be hard to follow. At 9inedesign, you will be emailed a link to a comprehensive set of step by step instructions to allow you to follow along and build your website in a small amount of time. Plus, we offer free support for any questions you may have.
When to Consider:
If you are on a budget but still want a professionally designed website.
When your website needs are relatively standard and don't require extensive customization.
If you need a quick and cost-effective solution.
Advantages:
Cost-Effective: Templates are generally more budget-friendly than hiring a designer.
Speed: You can get your website up and running quickly with pre-designed templates.
Design Quality: Many templates offer high-quality design and functionality.
Considerations:
Limited Customization: Templates have limitations in terms of customization, so your site may not be entirely unique.
Compatibility: Ensure the template is compatible with your chosen platform (e.g., Squarespace, WordPress, Shopify) and meets your needs.
Instructions: Good step by step instructions can make or break your project.
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3. Take a Online Web Design Class:
Online courses have exploded and for good reason. It makes a lot of sense for some people to gain the knowlege themselves to create a website on their own. It can give you a feeling of accomplishment, give you another source of knowledge that can come in handy in any professional environment, and can be cost effective compared to hiring a web designer. Depending on how well each course is put together, it can be a great way to be able to do it yourself! You can have control over your business, your baby. All the desicions that are made along the way in the process can be yours, and yours alone. At 9inedesign, we are currently working on an online course to build a Squarespace website yourself. I intend to look into other possible courses that align with my particular experience and expertise in not only web design but also business. My aim is to be able to share my expertise and skills with those looking for knowledge in these areas. Check back with us soon, as the online courses become available. Sign up to our mailing list and we will let you know when they become available.
When to Consider:
If you want to gain web design skills for personal or professional development.
When you have the time and commitment to invest in learning web design.
If you have a modest budget and prefer a more hands-on approach.
Advantages:
Skill Development: Taking a web design class can equip you with valuable skills that you can use for various projects.
Cost Savings: Learning web design on your own can be more budget-friendly than hiring a designer.
Creative Control: You have full control over your design decisions.
Considerations:
Learning Curve: Web design can have a steep learning curve, especially if you're new to it.
Time Investment: Learning web design takes time, and it may delay the launch of your website.
DIY Limitations: While you can create your website, it may not be as polished or professional as one designed by an expert.
Ultimately, the choice depends on you and your specific goals and circumstances. Carefully assess your needs, budget, and time constraints to determine the best path for your web project. Or reach out to 9inedesign and tell us about your project, we can help!