How to Strike a Balance Between an Advanced Website and Your Budget

In today's internet-based economy, your business needs the best website it can afford. But what if you feel the need for a champagne website on a beer budget? Although they may take a little time and effort on your part, there are ways to get what you need without going into debt.

Build It Yourself

There are quite a few online site builders that offer advanced features for a reasonable monthly fee. They are designed for people who know nothing about coding or layout, so you can literally create a simple site in no time at all. While it may take a while to learn to use all the advanced features, the money you save may be worth the time you spend.

Hire a Designer Through Social Media

There are always out-of-work web designers advertising their services on social media. They may be just getting into business for themselves or simply trying to keep the wolf away from the door while they search for permanent employment. The joy of hiring one of these people is that you are helping out someone in need while getting quality work for a fraction of what you would pay a design firm.

Outsource Graphic Elements

Graphic design is one of the most expensive elements of website design. The beauty of the internet is that you can get beautiful original graphic design for your header and other elements for next to nothing. There are online sites where professional designers will create original logos and graphics for less than $100, and many of them do an excellent job.

Outsource Content

That same content you are paying your design firm big bucks for was probably bought online for $15 or less. The big markup is for his time in acquiring the content, and at designer rates, you may be paying $50 for a $10 article. It's not difficult to set up a client account on such sites and buy your own content, thus saving yourself a lot of money.

Work Out a Long-Term Design Plan

If you must hire a web developer in Utah or your particular locale, find one that is experienced in working with business owners to develop a long-term plan for their site. Have them build the essential site first and add as many bells and whistles as you can afford. As your income and business grow, budget more towards all the extras it needs for the site to be all you want it to be.

Do Not Be Afraid to Bargain

Designers are business people too, and they are not averse to bargaining if it means a prestigious job or referrals to other business people. Ask for a discount or, if it's feasible, ask if you can barter his services for yours.

Having an exceptional website is essential in this digital age. If your budget doesn't allow you to immediately have the site you desire, consider doing some of the work yourself or subcontracting for parts of the job to save money. A professional design firm will work with you to ensure you get the site you want at a price you can afford.