How to Build a Low-Maintenance, Professional-Looking Website

In today’s innovative world, running a business without a strong web presence is not feasible. Consumers use the internet for almost everything they need, from acquiring knowledge to product searches. Your website does not have to be grand. In fact, a simple, functional, and well-designed web page can easily give you an edge over your competitors. If you have a new product or service offerings, it can open new markets and help to expand your business quickly and cheaply.

Website design technologies and software have significantly evolved over the years and have become user-friendly. You don’t need complex codes anymore to create a functional and attractive website. Regardless of what program you use, some basic tricks and tips will help give your site a professional look, show off your company the best way possible, and make it easy to locate – all without having to spend a lot.

Determine the Purpose of your Website Before building and investing in your business site, you first have to identify why you are making one.

Knowing this will guide you in identifying the functions and elements that are needed for your web page. What do you want to gain from your site? Is it to widen your network and increase sales? Is it to introduce your business and share information? Start with these basic questions, and from here, you will be able to determine where you will start.

How to Build a Website the Cheap Way

1. Crowdsource

Designing a website alone will cost about $1,500 or more (depending on the functions), without factoring in programming and development work. Consider crowdsourcing your design to save money. A crowdsourcing company has a myriad of sample designs you can choose from, and you only pay for the one you like suited best for your needs. Also, the price range is more affordable compared to what others are offering for a custom website design.

2. Hire an intern or a student

Check with the local college in your locality and coordinate with the program director to ask for a referral to a student who has skills in website design. Most students are willing to accept the job to help build their portfolio. If they would charge, it would still be much cheaper when compared to a professional designer’s fee. When it’s time to turn the mock-up page into a working website, a student or a beginner in website development can help launch your page at affordable rates.

3. Outsource

Agencies in the Philippines, India, and other countries with low costs of living are usually able to offer rates lower than the U.S. based web designers and developers. You can check out oDesk or Guru, and requests proposals based on your requirements. These options also apply when you need content writers. If you want the cheapest option, you can write the content yourself. However, outsourcing can be the most effective and cost-efficient solution.

4. Barter

If you personally know website developers and/or designers, or you belong in an organization or a group, you can ask if they are willing to barter for their service. If you are in the accounting or legal industry, you can also offer your assistance. Most creatives are willing to collaborate entirely or partially in trade. Remember, while these tips can help you save a lot of money, you still get what you pay for. If you are working on a tight budget, then the tips above can help.

However, keep in mind that there are always other options you can opt for that will help transform your website into a professional-looking one.

If you’re looking for professional web designers in Bangkok, get in touch with us to see how we can help!