In today’s digital world, having a website is no longer just a good idea – it’s a must (I appreciate we might be a little biased on this point…). Whether you’re a small business just starting out or a seasoned pro, your website is often the first point of contact potential customers will have with your brand.
So, the big question is: should you build your own website or hire a professional?
Building your own site might seem tempting, especially when it comes to saving costs, but it’s important to think it through. It can be a rewarding challenge for some, while for others, it could quickly become overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of building your own website so you can make an informed decision that best suits your business.
Pro #1: Cost-Effective (DIY vs Hiring a Pro)
Let’s face it – costs matter. And one of the most attractive aspects of building your own website is the price tag. Hiring a web designer or developer or even working with a company like Quicklaunch, as a start-up up cash can be tight, and it can be pricey, especially if you want a custom design or advanced features. This can put a strain on a small business budget, particularly if you’re just starting out.
DIY website builders like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace allow you to create a functional site without spending a lot of money. These platforms offer a range of templates and drag-and-drop features, meaning you don’t need to know how to code. Hosting options are often included, too, which helps keep the overall costs down.
But, and it’s an important but, while the upfront costs are low, you need to consider the bigger picture. The time you’ll need to invest in learning how to use the platform, figuring out design elements, and solving technical issues might start to add up. And remember – time is money. So, while you might save on professional fees, you could end up spending more time than expected trying to get everything just right.
Con #1: Time and Effort
Building your own website isn’t a weekend project – it’s a significant time commitment. Sure, you can get a basic site up and running fairly quickly, but to create something that’s polished, user-friendly, and tailored to your business, it will take time.
If you’re not familiar with website building, you’ll likely spend hours – if not days – learning the ins and outs of your chosen platform. From picking the right template to ensuring your site is mobile-friendly, it’s all part of the process. Plus, there’s the constant tweaking, testing, and updating to consider, especially if you’re adding new content or making changes.
If you’re running a business, all that time spent building your website could be time better spent focusing on your customers, marketing, or other aspects of your business. So, while you may save money on a designer, the time you invest could detract from the time you need to focus on growth.
Pro #2: Full Control and Customisation
One of the greatest advantages of building your own website is the control you get over every detail. You’ll have the freedom to design your site exactly how you want it – no compromises, no waiting on others.
DIY platforms let you choose the layout, colours, fonts, and even the functionality. Want to change the font on your homepage? Done. Need to update your contact page? No problem. You have the flexibility to adjust things as your business evolves, without having to wait for a designer or developer to make those updates.
Plus, you can add extra features and integrations that suit your needs, like booking systems, e-commerce capabilities, or a blog. This level of control can be particularly valuable if you’re running a business that needs frequent updates or changes, or if you just want to ensure the website reflects your brand’s personality.
Con #2: Risk of Mistakes and Poor User Experience
While DIY websites offer a lot of freedom, they also come with risks – and some of them can be costly. If you don’t have experience in web design, there’s a good chance you’ll overlook crucial elements like SEO optimisation, mobile responsiveness, or even simple navigation. These mistakes can negatively impact the user experience and, ultimately, your brand’s reputation.
For example, imagine a potential customer visits your website, only to find that it’s difficult to navigate, slow to load, or not optimised for their mobile device. It’s frustrating, and they’re probably not going to stick around for long. A poorly designed website can damage your credibility and turn potential customers away.
Additionally, if you’re not experienced in SEO (Search Engine Optimisation), you might miss out on opportunities to rank well on Google. A website that isn’t optimised for search engines might get lost in the depths of search results, making it harder for customers to find you.
Another consideration is the overall professionalism of the site. Even with the best DIY platforms, it can be tough to achieve the sleek, polished look that a professional designer can deliver. And in a crowded market, a website that looks unprofessional or outdated could be a dealbreaker for potential customers.
So, should you build your own website? It’s a question that depends on your time, skills, and business priorities.
On the one hand, DIY websites are cost-effective and give you complete control over design and functionality. They’re great for businesses on a tight budget or those who need to make quick, frequent changes. But on the other hand, building a website takes time and effort – and it’s not without its risks. If you’re not careful, you might end up with a site that’s full of mistakes, poorly designed, or not optimised for search engines, which could harm your business in the long run.
If you have the time, the technical know-how, and the patience, building your own website could be a great option. However, if you’d rather focus on your business and leave the website to the experts, hiring a professional may be the better route to take.
At the end of the day, it’s about weighing the pros and cons based on your specific needs. Whatever you choose, just make sure your website works for you – because, in today’s digital world, it’s more than just a marketing tool – it’s a reflection of your brand.
If you need help with getting your business online, then Quicklaunch is here to help. Get in touch, and we can have a chat about what you need.