Ready-Made vs. Professional Web Design

For both projects, you will need to be able to follow the product's directions on how to put it together. This can be a frustrating experience when Part 1A doesn't fit into Slot 4D on the bookcase or when the script you copied and pasted into the HTML code just won't function correctly.

Let's compare what tools you'll need for the ready-made project:

Bookcase: Website:
1. Buy the bookcase. 1. Buy the template design.
2. Purchase the tools:

  • Wrench;
  • Hammer; and
  • Screwdriver.
 2. Purchase the tools:

  • HTML software program; and
  • HTML reference book(s).
3. Unnessary step. 3. Buy the materials:

  • Register your domain name
  • Obtain server space with a web hosting service
4. Time to build it. 4. Time to build it.

Getting Started:

With the ready-made bookcase, you won't need to spend time on research. However, you'll still need to spend some time doing research before you get started adding your content to the template website.

Other Considerations:

The following should be considered before purchasing the ready-made bookcase or template web design:

  1. How well is it really constructed?
  2. How much assembly will be required on your part?
  3. Can it be easily moved elsewhere?
  4. Is there room for expansion?
  5. Does it work exactly the way you want or will it need to be modified?

Purchase the Tools:

With the ready-made bookcase, you probably already own these tools, so it wouldn't be necessary to spend money on tools. On the other hand, you still need to invest quite a bit of money (about $300 for the web design software and reference books) for the tools necessary to add your content to the template design.

If you're planning to add images of your product to the website, you'll still need to purchase graphic design software, so the cost would remain at $500. So, once again, if your website will only consist of 5 or 6 web pages, the cost for the tools alone will probably be more than it would cost to hire a professional web designer!

Purchase the Materials:

For the ready-made bookcase, there aren't any materials to purchase. For the template designed website, its still necessary to register the domain and obtain server space.

Time to Build It:

With a ready-made bookcase, you'll only need to spend an hour or two putting it together. For the template website, you'll still need to spend valuable time adding your content to the template.

Is It Really What You Wanted?

Does it have all the bells and whistles that you would like it to have? The ready-made bookcase is generally made of particle board or presswood. While it is functional and serves its purpose, it won't create a lasting impression. However, a custom-made bookcase built of fine hardward does leave a lasting impression. The same idea can be related to a website project. The amateur may design a functional website, but the seasoned, professional web designer will create a memorable website.

There is one more definite drawback to choosing a ready-made product or service — it's almost always impossible to add optional items at a later date.

Next — Amateur vs. Professional Web Design