I was recently asked why I want to speak to companies that have websites using or Wix, Ionos or any other big companies that offer this type of solution or are considering using. So, this got me thinking about the reasons for using a professional instead of doing it yourselves.
Although these sorts of platforms are great for companies with a limited budget or are just starting out, below are some of the things to consider before making this decision:
Professional Quality & Design
A skilled web designer can create a website that is not only visually appealing but also intuitive and user-friendly. They understand the nuances of layout, typography, colour schemes, and user experience. DIY websites often end up looking amateurish or cluttered because it’s easy to overlook these details without experience.
Time-Saving
Building a website from scratch can be incredibly time-consuming, especially if you don’t have experience. A professional designer will save you time and let you focus on other aspects of your business or project.
Customisation & Flexibility
While website builders offer basic templates, they are often limited in terms of customisation plus you are locked into them for the life of this website, which over time can get quite expensive. If you want something unique or specific to your brand, a designer can help create custom layouts, features, and functionality that align with your vision.
Mobile Responsiveness
Designers ensure that your website looks great on all devices, from desktops to smartphones. While website builders provide templates that are “mobile-friendly,” they may not offer the same level of customisation or optimisation.
SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)
A web designer who understands SEO can create a site that’s optimised for search engines from the get-go. This includes things like URL structure, title tags, metadata, and even the speed of the site—all crucial factors for ranking well on Google.
Ongoing Support & Updates
After your site is live, you may need ongoing maintenance, updates, or troubleshooting. A designer can offer ongoing support, ensuring that your site stays up to date with the latest trends, security protocols, and functionality.
Brand Cohesion
If your website is part of a larger brand strategy, a professional designer can help make sure your site aligns with your brand’s visual identity, tone, and overall message. This is important for credibility and establishing trust with your audience.
Custom Features
If you need more advanced features like custom e-commerce solutions, complex forms, integration with third-party apps, or unique interactive elements, a web designer has the technical expertise to implement those things.
Security
A professional designer will help set up security features to protect your site from hacking attempts and other cyber threats. DIY sites are more vulnerable if you don’t know the best practices for securing them.
A Better ROI
Ultimately, a professionally designed site can lead to better user engagement, more conversions, and higher sales. If you’re building a site for a business, investing in a professional can pay off in the long run.
So, if you or a company you know are considering going down the route of creating their own site please think about these things before making a decision. Happy to have a chat about your needs and you may find that it is not as expensive as you think.