Site Builder or Web Designer

We live in a time where it’s easier than ever to get your brand online. Pre-built website builders are commonplace, and you don’t need to be a master coder to get your message in front of millions of eyes. With options like Squarespace and Wix available, why should you still consider a professional website designer?

Professional Design

Unlike generating a simple document with Microsoft Word, website design has many variables that most people may not consider. Everything from image size and composition, to font selection and pairing plays a factor when considering website design. Knowing when and when not to use these elements can make or break a website as a whole and can be the difference between a clean, cohesive, user friendly site and a hot mess.

Fees Can Add Up

Site builders typically charge between 20 to 50 per month. That may seem like a great deal, but over the course of two years that can still be 480 and 1200. If and when you choose to shutdown or move your website, often times your content, domain, and designs are owned by the template builder. You’re essentially renting your website.

Time

With an out of the box website, you’re in charge of all the design aspects, from everything from photography to color selection to copywriting. This may sound great, being the final judge of what goes onto your website. However, gathering and licensing images, writing content, and designing a website can take a lot of time and energy. Do you have the time to learn to become a web designer as well as run your business?

Customer Service

For website builders, their customer service inquiries are routed through call centers staffed with representatives with scripts, not actual coders or designers. It can take a long time for the simplest changes to get done. When using professional website design services, you have the advantage of talking directly to a professional who can make things happen in a timely manner.

Custom Features

Website builders have the ability to add features such as ecommerce solutions, sliders and some impressive website effects. But what if you require a more custom solution? Integration with an existing inventory system, custom contact forms that collect emails to Constant Contact or any other feature not covered in the limited selection? Website professionals can work with you to find solutions to even the most complex problems.

Unknowns

Before we start building a website, we have a web design questionnaire filled with numerous questions designed to narrow down the best approach for your web presence. Some may seem mundane or off the wall, but they all serve to hone in on the best possible strategy. Knowing what questions to ask when considering website design can be the difference between a polished website and a haphazard design.

Final Thoughts

If you only need a very simple page, or just want to claim a spot online at the lowest possible cost, then a website builder may be the best solution. They can be a quick and simple way to get online. However, there are some significant downsides and they may not be the ideal longterm solution for your brand. Knowing this you can be prepared to make the best decision, whether it be a site builder or web designer.