Your time is best spent generating revenue in other ways

In the age of web builders, do I really need a web design agency?

The DIY approach … 

“I built my last website on platform A, and it wasn’t that difficult, so I just need you to XYZ .” 

With platforms like Squarespace, Shopify and Wix, jumping into building your own website has become a far more viable option. These platforms are specifically designed to make life easier for people who are dipping their toe into this space and can also be budget-friendly, particularly if you are just starting out in business or need a website for a side-hustle or hobby. 

There’s no need for advanced coding skills, and if you have an interest in learning how the platform works, it’s a reasonable option. For people who do not have the budget to engage a full-time web designer, I recommend this approach. Go for it! We all need to start somewhere and there are thousands of online tutorials you can learn from to help you build that first website. 

So, build it and they will come? No, not always. 

You now have a shiny new website (which you have proudly designed yourself) and the know-how to use it. As a bonus, you have saved a stack of money by doing it yourself (if you don’t equate the time spent to an hourly rate). But what’s next? 

Let’s get real! 

If your site has a business purpose, do you have the time to keep it relevant, up-to-date and SEO optimised, ensure your Google Core Vitals are compliant, write engaging content and implement the latest integrations? Yep, that’s a lot to stay on top of, as well as running your business. 

Creating your website is only the first step. 

If people can’t find you or are not engaging with your brand when they do find you, then you have a problem – particularly if you rely on the site to generate leads. 

I’ve been asked to ‘rescue’ a few DIY websites, and once I’ve explained the ins and outs to my client, they generally say, “I wish I came to you first; I would have saved so much time.” 

And this brings us back to the cost vs value debate.

Cost vs value … 

If you’re an electrician, where is your valuable time best spent? 

Generating new business, quoting customers, completing jobs, and sending invoices is probably higher up on the priority list than managing your website or making sure it is ranking on the first page of Google. 

Your time is best spent generating revenue in other ways. 

It’s the same in our business. While there are many new skills I could learn to save a few dollars (aka bookkeeping), it’s smarter to spend that time doing the things I’m good at and letting the professionals do their thing. That’s ultimately what you get when you use a dedicated web design agency to build and manage your site. 

You’re putting your website in the hands of an expert so you can spend this time on what you do best. Horse for courses, and all that. 

Website designers and developers know what needs to be done at the beginning, during and post website build so you get the best value for your investment. They know the importance of SEO optimisation, competitor research, how to improve your website loading times, making sure your site looks great on mobile, integrating payment options and building your e-commerce offerings the right way. 

We appreciate that great copywriting will not only drive conversions on your website but will attract the right search traffic in the first place. We stay up to date with industry trends and are there to take a phone call when you need something fixed. 

And this is exactly how I work with my accountant or bookkeeper. I pay them to do what they do best, so I am freed up to focus on what I do best. It’s a win-win for all involved. 

Because cheaper doesn’t always provide the best value for you and your business in the long run.