Web Designers: Choosing Freelance, Consultancy or Dedicated

A web designer is relatively easy to find; the difficult part is finding one that will bring success for your website. And because these professionals are found in three different types, mistakes borne of ignorance and misunderstanding can easily occur – sometimes costing thousands of dollars in lost time and business as a consequence. Understanding the differences between these three types of web design professionals is critical in order to develop a site that is appealing to both human visitors and search engines. The following explains each type of developer/design expert:

Freelance

Freelance web developers are the most common type. Unfortunately, because of the wildly differing skills sets between each individual, it can be nearly impossible to determine exactly how reputable and proficient each one is. Freelance web designers often work from their homes or shared office space, which means that their prices are generally much more affordable than a consultancy or a dedicated design firm. Unfortunately, this freedom can also mean problems for some.

Because freelance design professionals operate independently and with little oversight, projects can quickly spiral out of control with missed deadlines and inferior work. And while a freelancer is often easy to communicate with, this can also be a problem as criticism of work or multiple requests for redesigns can be taken personally and eventually deteriorate the business relationship.

Overall, freelance web designers may be a suitable choice for a small website without strict guidelines or deadlines. However, it should be noted that some freelancers are quite capable – and their unavailability will generally reflect this.

The Consultant Web Design Practice

The consultant’s primary offering is the ability to bring together all the necessary factions of creating a successful website. This can be especially useful to individuals, organizations and businesses that don’t have the time or expertise to put such a team together themselves. However, this feature can be as much of a bane as a blessing.

Because the consultant utilizes various members of a team that generally do not work directly for the consultant, there can be significant delays in communication and the production of work. Furthermore, consultancies are often a more expensive choice because fees must be inflated in order to pay all parties involved in the process – this means that the consultant’s salary is essentially an add-on. And because many of the components of a consultant’s team are freelancers, the problems mentioned above are just as prevalent with consultant designer firms as they are with individual freelancers.

The Dedicated Web Design Individual or Firm

The dedicated designer is a firm or company that concentrates almost exclusively on web design services. Designers, coders, programmers, SEO experts and internet marketing professionals are part of a cohesive team working out of the same virtual or physical office space. Communication with such groups is generally extremely efficient, and the offering of guarantees can provide many website owners with much-needed confidence in the team that manages their site.

Additionally, because all necessary components of the web development team are under one roof, prices are often competitive with those charged by consultancies, and even those charged by freelancers. And as a critical added benefit, most dedicated firms are able to stay abreast of changing internet practices and can respond much more quickly and effectively than another type of web designer.

Overall, the best choice for serious website owners is a dedicated web designer. Find out for yourself by using the links below now for a free, expert consultation. Let us show you precisely what we can do for you – including tools, resources, skills and services that freelancers and consultants just can’t match. Much of our information is absolutely free of charge. The sooner you call, the sooner your website can begin dominating its competition.