Should I Build My Own Website or Pay Someone?
Introduction
Building an online presence is crucial for businesses in today’s digital landscape. A website not only allows you to market your business effectively but also adds credibility to your brand. However, as a business owner, you might find yourself at a crossroads, unsure whether to build your own website or hire a professional web designer. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of both options, providing you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”50″ bottom_padding=”50″ text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][nectar_single_testimonial testimonial_style=”bold” color=”Accent-Color” quote=”A user interface is like a joke. If you have to explain it, it’s not that good.” name=”Martin LeBlanc” subtitle=”Founder of IconFinder”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
Building Your Own Website
Coding Your Website Yourself
If you have a good understanding of HTML and CSS, building your website from scratch can provide you with complete control over its layout and design. However, for business owners who are already occupied with running their businesses, coding a website can be complex and time-consuming. Alternatively, you can utilize WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editors like Dreamweaver, which offer a more user-friendly approach to website design.
Using Website Builders
Website builders, such as GoDaddy’s Websites + Marketing, offer an excellent solution for those without coding skills. These platforms provide a wide range of template designs and a simple drag-and-drop interface, making it easy to create a professional-looking website. Templates serve as a starting point and can be customized to match your brand’s identity. With website builders, you enjoy the added benefits of technical support and inclusive hosting, eliminating the need for additional setup and costs.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”6506″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”40″ text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
WordPress and Joomla
Advanced Functionality and Flexibility
For business owners who desire more advanced features and customization options, WordPress and Joomla are viable alternatives. WordPress, in particular, is highly popular and offers extensive plugins and themes to enhance your website’s functionality. However, it’s important to note that these platforms have a steeper learning curve due to the various plugins and themes available. Learning and managing these additional components can be time-consuming.
Hosting and Security Considerations
Unlike website builders, WordPress and Joomla are software platforms that require separate hosting arrangements. Hosting costs, as well as the purchase of SSL certificates for security, need to be considered. While options like cPanel or managed WordPress hosting simplify the installation process, additional expenses may be incurred to set up and maintain your website on these platforms.
Hiring a Web Designer or Agency
Freelancers
If you prefer to focus on your core business activities and lack the time or expertise to build a website, hiring a freelancer can be a suitable option. Freelancers typically charge between $500 and $1,500 for website development, depending on their skill level and the complexity of your project.
Agencies
Agencies offer a more comprehensive web development service with a higher price range. While their services may start at around $2,500 and go up to $5,000, or even higher, they provide the advantage of a team-based approach and a higher quality output. Agencies are equipped to handle multiple aspects, including website design, branding, and other marketing initiatives, ensuring a holistic online presence for your business.
Conclusion
Regardless of the route you choose, having a website is essential for establishing credibility and professionalism in the digital realm. Consider your priorities—whether you value your time or your budget more—when making this decision. If time is of the essence and you can afford it, hiring a professional web designer or agency takes the burden off your shoulders, providing expertise and saving you valuable time. Conversely, if you have the technical know-how and limited resources, building your own website using user-friendly tools like website builders or content management systems like WordPress can be a cost-effective solution.
A well-designed website is an investment in your business’s success. By having an online presence, you can attract and engage with your target audience, strengthen your brand, and ultimately grow your business. So, whether you opt to build your own website or pay someone to do it, take action and ensure your business has an effective online presence.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
