True or False?

Not all designers are created equal, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t all have something valuable to offer.  Here are some truths and some falsehoods about web and brand design that might help you clarify which professional you need for your business.

1. All web designers are fluent in HTML, CSS and Javascript.

False.

Some business offer design services only, where the design of the brand and website is their top priority.  This would include creating a prototype of your website and building it on a platform such as Wordpress, Squarespace, Showit, Webflow or Shopify using a theme based template.  

Other businesses that are listed as web design companies, may only do the coding part of the process, or they may offer both design and coding, but before hiring a web design company, that does both, make sure you love their designs before you hire them to design and build your website.  Specializing in design and specializing in development are two very different things.  

2.  Before working with a designer, you must have your fonts and color pallets decided beforehand.

False.

Although you may have branding styles that you have already developed and want to keep, you don’t need to have colors, fonts and styles picked out before hiring a designer.  That is something as designers, we can help you conceptualize.  As we discuss your business, goals and values and learn more about what you are trying to say to your customer, we can help you create a strong design package that speaks your language and helps you succeed.

3.  If some designers are using a template based design strategy, I can simply create my own brand and website myself.

True - But read on….

It’s true, you can create your own brand and website.  But that’s like asking your best friend that has an iPhone with a great camera to take your wedding pictures.  Sure, she has a camera, but does she have the experience or they eye to get that perfect shot?  Maybe, maybe not.  Do you chance it?  Probably not.  Hiring a professional that has been trained in design and has experience, will get you better results and you’ll be much happier with the outcome.  Plus, when you are trying to run a business, learning how to build on a new platform could take weeks and lots of hours that you could be spending on running and growing your company.  Hiring a professional is just a good business decision.

4.  I shouldn’t spend a lot of time and money on my branding or website if I’m just starting my business.

False

While starting a business takes capital and sometimes a lot of it, budgeting branding and a website build into your business plan is one of the most important aspects of starting your business.  Most customers are looking online for products or services.  You have about 2.7 seconds to impress them.  A great looking website and brand could mean the difference in whether your business succeeds or fails.  Don’t risk it, take the step and start off strong, then market the crap out of your business, get to work, and make some money!

While there are a lot of misconceptions about web design, we hope that answers some of your questions.  Here at Sagebrush Studio, we offer the best of many worlds.  Not only do we offer great design, but we are passionate about coding as well and can provide any customizations needed that suit your business needs.  And to top it off, we can help you with your website copy as well.  It’s a win, win.  Hire Sagebrush Studio for your new or flourishing business and let us help you elevate your brand and website!

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