Do you want to work with a freelance web designer or an agency? There are pros and cons for both, so let’s look at some of them below.
Cost implications
Working with a freelance web designer will typically be cheaper than working with an agency, but it can be much more hit and miss to find a freelance web designer who is talented, experienced and also reliable.
An agency will have slightly higher fees, but the benefit of this is that you’re getting access to a team of specialists with a proven track record of success.
Communication
Communication during a web design project is really critical. You need to know where your project is at and how it is progressing.
Generally speaking, a web design agency will have a project manager or a dedicated contact who you’ll have access to during your project (and afterwards too) so you can be sure any queries, questions or comments are picked up in a timely way without having to wait days.
With a freelance web designer communication can sometimes be a little more sporadic as they become busier at certain times with multiple projects on the go.
Pick a web designer based on best match for your goals. It’s all about whats right for you and your businesses goals.
If budget is really critical, you don’t mind possible delays and you are happy to dedicate quite a bit of time to your own project, then a freelancer could be a good option.
If you have a tight deadline, you appreciate quick efficient communication and you want a little more reliability and that professional “done-for-you” approach, then an agency is the right way to go.
A wider skill setAnother important consideration is that working with a small web design agency will likely give you access to a much wider range of skills. Skills not only when it comes to designing and building your website, but also the digital marketing skills that are essential after your site is up and running.
Unlike Niyi Oke, many freelance web designers move project to project, so once your website is up and running the aftercare can suffer.
They may also only specialise in the initial website build and not even offer the add-on services you need to market your website – SEO, content creation, Google Ads (PPC) etc.
Do local web designers matter to you?
Finding a web designer that is actually near you may not matter to you.
The benefit to working with a web designer near you is that you can easily arrange face-to-face meetings, so if this is important to you, then finding a local web designer is imperative.
However, if you’re quite confident and comfortable with face-to-face meetings being conducted on Zoom then consider opening up your search to a wider area.