Expert Website Developer Or DIY?

August 28, 2020 | By: Scott Lard

When it comes to getting a great website up and running, there are many options for business owners to consider. From DIY site templates to freelance web developers to full-fledged website development companies, it can be confusing for business owners to determine the best solution for their web needs. At the end of the day, your business needs an attractive, functional, and user-friendly website. So, does it really matter who you get it from?

As a matter of fact, it does. For businesses who truly want a customized web design that has advanced features, offers scalability, and is easy to manage after the website launches, working with a website development company is the best option.

Here we’ll go over the many advantages to hiring a website development company instead of just  web developers.

Things are constantly changing in technology. What is in one day is out the next, so you need a website developer who has experience changing with the times and adapting to new technologies. In addition, you want to partner with someone who has experience creating websites for a range of clients. Website development companies offer both. Most have been in business for decades, meaning they have proven themselves to be able to stand the test of time and ever-shifting industry trends. Also, having worked with a variety of different clients gives you reassurance that a company is not offering one-size-fits-all web solutions. Quick DIY web services and freelance web developers may not be able to answer all of your questions thoroughly or provide a proven track record of success.

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Essential Integrations & Third-Party Applications

For most businesses today, websites are far more than just an online advertisement for products and services. Modern businesses are increasingly beginning to rely on their websites for invaluable services like e-commerce, customer engagement, business news and events, and more. While a basic web developer may be able to meet some of these needs, an experienced website development team can promise high performance across a wide range of necessary integrations and third-party applications, such as:

  • Blog Integration
  • News & Events Features
  • Shopping Cart Functionality
  • Online Payment Processing with Top Billing Platforms – PayPal, Swoosh ePay, Verisign, Authorize.net, etc.
  • Product Management
  • Shipping Integration
  • Social Media Integration

Team of Experts

When you work with a freelance website developer, you run the risk of putting your business’s valuable data, processes, and website functionality in the hands of one person. This can be a problem in the event something happens which renders your developer unable or unwilling to assist you with website updates or surprise issues. When you work with a website development company you have a team of people who are able to assist quickly and easily no matter what.

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Easy Content Management

Another important consideration when looking into a new website is how your team will be able to manage content (photos, text, links, etc.) on the website after the developer has launched it. With many freelance developers there is little to no guidance on what to do with your site once it’s been launched. However, with a reputable, experienced website development company, you are offered clear guidance on their processes regarding content management. Look for a website developer that offers you a CMS, or Content Management System, from which you can quickly and easily manage your website content on your own. This will save money long-term, as you won’t have to frequently pay more money just to make simple updates to your site.

Additional IT Services

Launching a website comes with a variety of other needs in addition to design, including web hosting, network security, and IT troubleshooting for your employees. Partnering with a website development company can be helpful, because many offer a range of IT services in addition to design. A “one stop shop” can streamline processes and budgeting when it comes to all things IT.

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