But maintenance is a unique niche. It typically doesn’t provide the large payouts that new builds offer. Plus, a client’s needs can vary quite a bit.

Some websites require constant attention. Others may only need a periodic software update. That means some maintenance clients are more profitable than others.

With that, you’ll want to target clients who fit your goals. Not everyone will be a match, however.

Much depends on how busy you want to be and how much you want to charge. Then there’s the matter of who built the website. Some designers won’t touch a site built by someone else.

Are you looking for maintenance-only web design clients? Here are some things to consider, along with how to determine your business goals.

Does The Website Fit Your Niche?

The first factor involves how a client’s website fits your niche. For instance, let’s say that you specialize in websites built with Webflow. Ideally, you’d like to book clients that work with the content management system (CMS).

Maintenance clients can provide a path to expanding your horizons, however. Picking up a WordPress client could better familiarize you with the software.

Still, you’ll want to consider the consequences. A site that’s unlike the others on your roster requires special attention. You may spend significant time researching tasks. And it could cut into your profit margin.

That may be fine if you’re planning to expand your services. The experience of learning another CMS can prove valuable in the long term.

Otherwise, staying within your niche is usually the way to go. That is unless you want to invest the time to learn something new.

How Much Work Is Expected?

Maintenance clients can run the gamut in terms of need. Those using WordPress will have a baseline of work. The core software, theme, and plugins will need routine updates. But things can scale quickly.

eCommerce websites require a lot of attention, for instance. You’ll want to test software updates on a staging environment. And troubleshooting problems are often more complex.

News and membership-based sites also fit this category. They tend to be frequently updated. And clients may be looking to roll out new features regularly.

These types of clients can be a boon for revenue. You might charge a significant monthly or yearly fee. The right opportunity could transform your business.

But you’ll also need to balance that against your time limitations. How many large-scale clients can you manage? A solo freelancer or small agency may have difficulty here.

It may be that you work with clients across the spectrum. Or you could focus solely on one type of website. The key is becoming comfortable with your workload.

Is the Website Worth Your Time?

A lot of web designers work with small organizations. These clients offer valuable learning experiences. And their maintenance needs tend to be minimal.

This arrangement is beneficial if your core focus is on building new websites. You can earn a little extra money along the way. Meanwhile, your expected workload will be minimal.

It doesn’t always work out this way, though. The prevalence of malware means that a security issue can happen at any time. And cleaning up a hacked website can be arduous and time-consuming.

Compatibility issues can also come into play. Websites built with PHP may have to be tweaked as new versions are released. And keeping up with the latest version of a CMS can also be tricky.

Therefore, it’s not wise to consider these clients as “easy money.” You may not touch their site daily. But they could still require significant work down the road. Keep this in mind as you weigh the pros and cons of working with them.

Who Built the Website?

There’s no accounting for quality when inheriting a website. You can’t know every step the original designer took. Did they follow best practices?

You may not find out until a problem arises. That can lead to a wild goose chase of sorts. You’re stuck digging through code, trying to identify what went wrong.

Some designers are understandably uncomfortable with these situations. No one wants to be on the hook for fixing someone else’s mistakes. Thus, they avoid these websites at all costs.

It’s something to think about. If you’re comfortable with the risks, sign on. Explain the situation to your client. Conduct a thorough review to try and catch potential issues. You may not find everything. But the process could provide some peace of mind.

Also, be sure to charge accordingly. There’s no telling what’s going on beneath the surface.

Find the Right Website Maintenance Clients

Maintaining websites can be lucrative. But it still pays to be choosy. Picking the wrong clients to work with can negatively impact your business.

Think about your ideal website maintenance situation. How much work do you expect? How much revenue would you like to bring in? Most importantly – does the website fit within your niche?

The idea is to build a business that runs smoothly. Too much technical variety can send you scrambling. And you may not have enough time to handle multiple large websites.

Write a list of what you’re looking for in a maintenance client. Next, develop a process for managing related tasks. Consider how much time and effort each site will take. And don’t forget to account for the occasional unexpected issue.

There’s no shortage of websites that require maintenance. Take time to ensure that you work with the ones that are a good fit for your business!

The post What to Look For in Maintenance-Only Clients appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

My web design career began in 1996. That was right about the time when the web was becoming mainstream. More people were coming online. Organizations began to see the value in having a website.

So much has changed. We’ve gone from static HTML to content management systems (CMS). The industry has adopted many standards and best practices. Most impressive is that we can take the web with us. Mobile devices have been a game changer.

Truthfully, I couldn’t foresee any of this when I started. Nor did I know that I’d still be working on the web. Things just turned out that way.

Or did they? There must be some secret formula for sticking around this long.

I’ve thought about what it takes to achieve longevity in web design. Here’s what I found.

You Need Enthusiasm for Your Work

Enthusiasm is a key to longevity. And it applies to every career path. Staying on course is difficult when you’re not having fun.

But sometimes we get the wrong impression. Enthusiasm isn’t a 24/7 feeling. It can leave us for days, weeks, or more.

And there are numerous causes. A particularly stressful project can sap your energy. A difficult client can make you dread going to work. Plus, this work is just plain hard. Things don’t always go according to plan.

So, where does enthusiasm come from? Some find it in the creative process. Others may find it in solving complex problems. Helping a client achieve their goals is also a goldmine of good vibes.

Being filled with endless joy isn’t the point. That’s not a realistic expectation for any of us. It’s about finding bits and pieces that excite and motivate you. And you can adjust your workflow to experience more of these moments.

These are the things you can hold onto during tough times. And they’ll give you the energy to take on the next challenge.

Be Willing to Adapt to New Tech

Very little stays the same in this industry. Fundamental technologies like HTML and CSS remain. But even they have evolved. As they say, change is the only constant.

Adapting to change is difficult. As is understanding when to make a change. There are no easy or universal answers.

New technologies arrive daily. But not all of them will be worth your time. How will you know when it’s time to adapt?

So much depends on your niche. Look for tools that will add value to your skill set. Find technologies that will help you better serve client needs. These are areas where change makes sense.

The benefits of something new aren’t always apparent. You may need to experiment to find them. Finding the right one can provide a boost for your career.

You don’t have to jump on every new thing that comes along. But a willingness to try can make a difference. You’re investing in yourself and your future.

Work for Something Bigger Than Yourself

Web design is just another job at the end of the day. There are positives and negatives. And not everyone has the desire to stay in the industry.

Those of us who stay seem to have a common thread. We want to become involved in the web design community.

This involvement takes many forms. It could be contributing to an open-source project like WordPress. Or you might advocate for important causes like security or accessibility.

But you don’t have to focus on making change at the highest level. It’s also possible to impact others on a one-to-one basis. Activities like mentorship help bring others into the industry. It may make someone else’s journey that much more rewarding.

Paying it forward gives you a reason to stay in web design. It doesn’t have to be anything time-consuming or difficult. Even small contributions provide a sense of purpose.

Stay around as Long as You Like

Being a web designer for 25+ years is hard to fathom. The job description has changed dramatically. And yet here I am.

I’m far from the only “old timer” out there. Other talented and dedicated folks have made it this long. Some have even come full circle and retired.

If you’re hoping for similar longevity, think about the items above. Find a niche that you’re enthusiastic about. Don’t be afraid to try new things. And give back in a way that suits you.

Each of these items will help you establish roots in web design. They’ll open you up to a world of opportunity and support. You’ll need them to survive the challenges and changes.

You may make it longer than me! And who knows what the web will look like then?

The post A Web Designer’s Secrets to Longevity appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

You’ll likely take notice of the issue as you try to do them at scale. The more clients you have, the more difficult it is to manage. Things that used to take a few minutes of your day can turn into hours.

Developing processes for these tasks can help. It’s all about finding ways to create efficiency in your workflow. You can cross items off your to-do list faster and without cutting corners.

How does it work? And what tasks can be streamlined? Here are a few examples to help you get the most out of your time.

Use Tools to Speed up Software Updates

The age of content management systems (CMS) has brought a constant stream of updates. Apps like WordPress require a lot of attention. The core software, plugins, and themes all need to be updated.

The process isn’t too bad if you manage a single website. But it can also get out of hand rather quickly. Keeping track of new versions across multiple sites is difficult. And it’s too easy to miss an important update.

The right tool can help, however. Some services allow you to manage multiple sites via a dashboard.

These tools are a game changer for busy web designers. You can perform maintenance tasks within a singular user interface. They list available updates and can even alert you to security issues.

Keeping your CMS up to date is critical. The right tool can streamline the process and save you time.

Bulk Browser and Device Testing

Modern web browsers are outstanding. But there are plenty of outdated apps still in use. And we can’t forget about the wide range of mobile devices.

Ensuring our websites work across all screens is tedious. A litany of tests is required to verify that everything looks good and works correctly.

Automation can make a positive difference in this area. Browser testing tools will run your site on multiple devices. They’ll then provide screenshots to help you spot any issues.

These tools don’t replace hands-on testing methods. But they will provide you with a heads-up regarding what to look for. Plus, you can use them to test on lesser-used browsers and devices.

The idea is to gauge how your site works across platforms. And do so without spending a lot of time.

Keep Track of Your To-Do List with a Task Management App

How do you keep track of your projects? You’re wasting time if you’re using email or handwritten notes. These methods require fumbling through mounds of content.

Sure, your inbox has search capabilities. But what if you have thousands of messages? And thumbing through a stack of paper isn’t exactly efficient.

A task management app may be what you need. This category has come a long way in recent years. And there’s one for just about every niche. Popular tools like Trello and Asana come to mind.

Even better is that many work across platforms. That means you can look things up on your phone or computer. You can stay in the loop regardless of where you are.

Collaborative features can help you communicate with stakeholders. For example, you can check in with a colleague directly – rather than creating an email chain. And multiple people can cross items off their to-do list.

But even solo freelancers can benefit. Simply having a single point of reference is helpful. You’ll be less likely to forget something.

Automate Client Invoicing and Payment

Billing-related tasks are often a pain. They take precious time away from your projects.

And speaking of which, invoices are time-sensitive. This clashes with other things you have going on. It’s not ideal when you’re working on a tight deadline.

Old-school accounting software can help you create invoices. However, it often lacks the polished automation features of specialized platforms. You still have to get those invoices to your clients somehow.

Several cloud-based providers will do the dirty work for you. They’ll take your input and automatically email an invoice to your clients. An integrated payment gateway will collect your hard-earned money.

But these services offer more than just time savings. They also make it easier for clients to pay on the spot. Thus, your invoice is less likely to sit on their desk collecting dust.

Tax time is also simplified. Earnings and expense reports can be generated and shared with your accountant.

Make Your Web Design Business More Manageable

Every aspect of your web design business can benefit from repeatable processes. That covers technical areas like CMS updates. And it also applies to more mundane tasks like billing.

The ideas above are only a starting point. Think about other tasks that could use some attention. You can then identify ways to streamline them.

It may be easier than you think. Sometimes, it’s a matter of finding the right tool. Several apps cater to web designers and freelancers. And they can transform your workflow.

Don’t panic if you’re feeling stuck and falling behind on projects. Refining a process or two can make all the difference.

The post Develop Processes for These Web Design Tasks appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

But that’s where the predictability ends. That’s because my to-do list is subject to change. One request from a client can disrupt everything. No matter how much I plan. My schedule is in a constant state of flux.

I’ve learned to accept the situation. Or have I? A recent tweet made me think about how unpredictable my days are. And I’m not the only one dealing with uncertainty. Other freelancers have shared their frustrations as well.

Sometimes web designers need to shift gears faster than a Ferrari. That’s just reality. So, how do we cope with it? And what can we do to lessen the need? Here are a few thoughts on dealing with an unpredictable life.

No Routine Is Safe

I love having a routine. I find security in knowing what I’ll be doing each day. Maybe a down-to-the-minute itinerary is boring. But cold comfort is the payoff.

But working with clients throws a wrench into your schedule. You can’t predict when they’ll need something. When they do, it can leave you scrambling.

Oddly enough, it seems like these requests come in bunches. For example, there are some clients I hear from once a year (if that). And yet there are days when I’ll receive messages from several of them. Maybe it has something to do with the alignment of the stars.

Sometimes their requests are a minor disruption. But others can quickly lead you down a rabbit hole. Troubleshooting a broken website is a classic example. This type of situation can quickly eat up chunks of your time.

This results in a domino effect. You’re suddenly behind schedule. And that thing you needed to get done today must wait until tomorrow. It’s a frustrating feeling, for sure.

Adjust and Prioritize Your Projects

I’m far from perfect when dealing with disruptions. But I have learned a few lessons, too. Prioritizing projects is chief among them.

It’s important to consider how a request fits into your queue. Is it an emergency? Are you working on a tight deadline? How much revenue does your client generate?

Each of the above can help you determine the order of importance. For instance, a low-revenue client who needs a simple text change shouldn’t be a priority. That’s not to say you should ignore their needs. Just don’t drop everything you’re doing for them.

Adjusting the expectations of you and your client is also worth doing. Setting aggressive deadlines is likely to blow up in your face. Therefore, add extra time when estimating a project. Do your best to prepare for the unexpected.

It’s an absolute must for solo freelancers. You don’t have a colleague to pick up the slack. Thus, give yourself room to breathe. Time lost to an emergency won’t be as big of a burden.

Dealing with the Ups and Downs

Unpredictability takes a mental toll on freelancers. It’s easy to feel like you can’t accomplish your goals. Frequent interruptions can grind progress to a halt.

You might become hesitant to book new projects. Making that commitment is difficult when you’re already struggling. Who wants to add fuel to the fire?

Learning to cope is a process. But several things can help.

First, take a moment to collect yourself when switching gears. Get away from your computer for a bit. You’ll be able to clear your head before starting something new.

It’s also worth looking at efficiency. Are there any workflow changes that will make things easier? For example, you might find an AI tool that helps you troubleshoot code. Getting things done faster may result in less stress.

Accept the reality of freelancing. You’re here to serve clients. And their needs won’t always be convenient. Therefore, take them as they come.

Finally, give yourself some grace. It’s OK to get frustrated. That’s part of the journey. However, don’t let it take over your life. You’ll find your way back to that to-do list in time.

Don’t Let It Go to Your Head

You never know what each day will bring. For web designers, that means our schedules can change in an instant. One email can lay waste to our best-laid plans.

Eliminating this unpredictability isn’t realistic. Thus, we must learn to adapt. Being clear-headed about it is your best weapon. Mindlessly rushing through the difficulties won’t help.

I can attest that some days are challenging. But you can learn to put them behind you. Perhaps a career in web design should come with a warning label: Your day may not go as planned.

The post The Unpredictable Life of a Freelance Web Designer appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

Our answers come from experience (or a quick search). Yet, there is one question that seems impossible to answer. It has confounded even veteran designers: “How long will it take to build my website?”

It’s a perfectly reasonable question. One that should be simple to answer. But it’s also loaded with uncertainty.

The design and build processes are unpredictable. As such, you might hesitate to provide an estimate. Unfortunately, this clashes with a client’s need to know specifics.

Today, we’ll look at the factors that impact your project’s launch date. We’ll also provide some tips for giving accurate time estimates. Let’s get to work!

The Size and Scope of the Website

The larger the project, the more time it will take to complete. This will always be a key factor.

Both the size and scope of a website can impact its timeline. For example, building a content-heavy website could require a lot of work. And it also affects redesign projects.

The same goes for functionality. Readymade software like shopping carts are more efficient than ever. But they often need at least some level of customization.

Building features from scratch is also challenging. The trial-and-error process can be difficult to predict. There are always bumps in the road when writing code.

And we can’t forget about human resources. Large projects can be a slow go for solo freelancers, especially if you are juggling multiple duties.

Availability of Content and Project Assets

Launching a website is a two-way street. We can’t accomplish much without client participation.

The delivery of content and other project assets is often an obstacle. Waiting for these items to arrive can be the longest part of the process. The situation can grind progress to a halt.

There are several potential reasons for a delay. Sometimes it’s because a client is overwhelmed. That leads them to disappear. And just when it’s time to put the project to bed.

There could also be a lack of clear direction. Design politics can lead to a vicious cycle where ideas are debated and tossed aside.

The Synergy Between Client and Designer

There’s something to be said about the relationship between clients and designers. A bad one will lead to endless revisions and misunderstandings. A good one can keep a project on the fast track to completion.

Developing a solid rapport is important. Effectively communicating needs and ideas is a key to getting things done.

For example, setting clear expectations makes the job that much easier. Clients are more likely to deliver when they understand your needs. It’s also great to know what clients expect from us as well.

Being on the same page (or not) greatly impacts the project timeline. The more synergy you have, the greater the odds of an efficient process. It’s something to keep in mind.

Your Other Commitments

None of us lives in a project bubble. Thus, it’s likely you have multiple websites to focus on. This can be a challenge when it comes to providing an accurate project timeline.

It’s not just a matter of having additional work to do. The other items we mentioned are relevant to all projects. Therefore, you might face a lot of uncertainty.

One typical scenario: you’re waiting for several clients to send you project assets. What if they arrive simultaneously? You’ll be left scrambling to make progress on multiple fronts.

You’re either waiting for work or swamped with it. Sound familiar? Welcome to the rollercoaster that is freelancing!

Providing a More Accurate Project Timeline

It’s no wonder that this simple question seems impossible to answer. Even so, a fairly accurate answer is still a requirement.

Establishing a line of communication can help. It starts by learning about a client’s needs and wants. Try to uncover as much as possible early in the process. Spell it all out in your proposal.

Clients must also be aware of your needs and wants. For instance, they need to know their role in supplying project assets such as content. A delay in getting you those items can mean missing a targeted launch date.

There can still be unexpected roadblocks. That will usually be the case. But there’s a chance to minimize them through early communication.

The next time you’re asked that oh-so-important question, bring up the factors mentioned above. Together, you’ll be able to come up with a solid answer.

The post The Impossible Question: How Long Does It Take to Build a Website? appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

But “small” is a relative term. A project can be small in terms of profit. Yet that doesn’t mean that it’s quick or easy. You may still need to perform a lot of work.

Why is that? These less-profitable projects tend to fall into two categories. The first involves clients who are on a tight budget. The other belongs to cheap clients that aren’t interested in spending money.

We need to be aware of the latter group. They offer opportunities for neither learning nor growth. Here’s how to tell the difference between cheap clients and those on a budget.

What Are Your Client’s Expectations?

The majority of people live within a budget. That often means settling for what we can afford.

Having realistic expectations are a part of the deal. For example, we wouldn’t expect to buy a new Lamborghini for the price of a used Chevy.

Clients often have similar budgetary restrictions. And most are reasonable in their approach. They’re willing to work within the parameters we set. If a feature is too expensive, they may save up to add it later.

But some clients don’t seem to grasp this concept. They expect enterprise-level features on their website. Yet they’re unwilling to pay the price to make it happen.

Instead, they haggle and harass. They question our ability to get the job done efficiently. And they scoff at paying for services like hosting.

Sometimes it’s a matter of educating a client. They may not understand what’s required to fulfill their requests.

But some people are unabashedly cheap. They’ll go to extremes to save money. This behavior hurts both the project and your relationship.

Cheap Clients Try to Pass Costs to You

Creating a website proposal follows a familiar pattern. A client tells us about their project. And they’ll tell us how much they’re looking to spend. We then provide an estimate based on their budget and needs.

In other words, we tell clients what they can do for the money. We may also advise them on how to get the most value.

Nothing here is set in stone, however. A client may decide to spend more or less. It often depends on the expected return on investment (ROI). If spending more gets a better return, some clients will gladly do so.

A cheapskate client may see the value of an expensive feature. But they’re likely to haggle about the price. They may want a discount – even if it hurts our bottom line.

There’s no harm in trying to reduce costs. But expecting their web designer to absorb the hit is unreasonable. And it renders their project goals unrealistic.

The rule of thumb is simple. If you can’t pay for what you want, make adjustments. It seems like the cheapest clients are incapable of this kind of change.

Be Careful of Who You Work With

Most web design projects come with a budget. That’s a normal part of working with clients. We do our best to deliver the most bang for the buck.

And working with clients on a tight budget can be worthwhile. Lower profits aside, the experience is valuable. It’s often the perfect introduction for new freelancers or small agencies.

Plus, there’s a chance that your relationship will grow. A client’s budget may increase in the future. That could mean more revenue when it’s time for a redesign.

These relationships are worth pursuing. But be careful. Not everyone is on the up and up.

Some people will try to take advantage of your generosity. They’ll ask for the moon and pay pennies on the dollar.

Accepting this type of project will make you miserable. A cheap client won’t appreciate your efforts. And your bank account will suffer. It’s time you could have spent working on something better.

There’s a difference between a cheap client and one on a budget. The former will expect you to bend to their needs. The latter will be happy to compromise where necessary. Make sure you choose wisely.

The post The Difference Between Cheap & Budget Clients appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

What do they want? The traditional “fast and cheap” website, of course. These clients expect us to perform Herculean tasks for peanuts. And they’d appreciate it if you could do it all within two weeks. No pressure!

These requests have always been a thorn in our side. And it’s fair to wonder how realistic they are. Even more so as the web has matured.

Let’s take a fresh look at this old nemesis. Should they be tossed into the dustbin of history? Or does fast and cheap still have a place in web design?

Build Tools Are Better. But Websites Are More Complex.

My first experience with building fast and cheap websites came long ago. These were the days before content management systems (CMS) and no-code tools. Static HTML was the primary technology used.

There’s no denying that it was a stressful situation. But I routinely churned out new websites within 2-3 weeks. It sounds counterintuitive when looking back. How did I do this without the help of advanced tools?

I think client expectations played a role. A typical website was relatively simple. And the projects weren’t heavy on content. Most were of the five-page brochure variety. Functionality consisted of a contact form.

These days, a CMS like WordPress would seem to be a perfect fit. Install a theme, add the content, and off you go. You wouldn’t need to touch code for something basic.

But that’s just it. Clients no longer want a barebones website. Their expectations have evolved along with technology.

There’s always “one more thing” to do. Plus, there are multiple pieces to put together. All of this takes more time than a client realizes. The result is higher costs and a longer time to launch.

Ignoring Mobile and Accessibility Isn’t an Option

Something else stands out from the past. We didn’t have to build and test our websites on dozens of devices.

Ensuring quality and consistency across screens is tedious. There is a nearly endless array of viewport sizes to consider. And even a readymade CMS theme isn’t without hiccups. Therefore, testing is mandatory.

And the same logic applies to accessibility. We didn’t think twice about “just launching it” twenty years ago. That’s a dangerous proposition these days.

There are both legal and moral obligations. Plus, building an accessible website requires a plan. It works better when baked in from the start.

Once again, these steps mean more time and money. Ignoring either of them isn’t an option. And neither is hurrying through their implementation.

When ‘Fast & Cheap’ Might Make Sense

Building a website quickly and cheaply doesn’t fit with most projects. The factors above are the primary reasons.

And we can’t forget about a client’s role. They may not be able to deliver on their outsized expectations. That’s how two weeks can turn into six months. The reality of their requests often results in a reconsideration.

But there are still a few occasions where this mix might make sense. A single-page website is one example. A promotional microsite is another possibility.

It may be wise to consider these websites to be temporary. There’s not enough time or money to build with the future in mind. Thus, they’re best suited for a short-term goal.

A page builder tool or a predesigned template could make quick work of this type of project.

The caveat is that the site must be light on customization. Clients must be limited to the options offered by the build tool. That means no fiddling around with PHP or JavaScript. This strategy also eliminates most eCommerce possibilities.

A client must also be willing to compromise. They may not get everything on their wish list. A shoestring budget and narrow timeline will only get them so far. That’s how this is supposed to work, after all.

Should You Accommodate These Clients?

Yes, it’s technically possible to build a fast and cheap website. The real question is whether you want to accommodate these clients.

You could pull all-nighters to create a fully functioning 500-page site in record time. But is that worth your time and effort? Probably not.

You should be paid handsomely for this level of work. And it’s only fair to have enough time to complete the project. Otherwise, your client isn’t valuing your time or talent.

Therefore, any consideration of fast and cheap should come with strict boundaries. Give your client minimal options and plenty of conditions to abide by.

And if you’re not comfortable with the arrangement? It’s more than OK to decline. That’s something you can do quickly – and for free!

The post Is the ‘Fast & Cheap’ Website Still Realistic? appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

But it’s possible to obsess over a portfolio a little too much. For example, sometimes we add features just because they look good. It could be a sign of mixed priorities. Are you designing to serve your current client or to impress the next one?

The practice is understandable. Designers want to show off their full range of skills. We might cringe at the thought of being pegged as a one-trick pony. It’s as if we’re only capable of recycling the same ideas.

Does a similarity in look mean that we’re not capable of more? Of course not. There’s more to this than meets the eye. Let’s dig a little deeper.

Good Design Doesn’t Need to Be Groundbreaking

The point of a project – whether it’s a website, mobile app, or print piece – is for people to consume it. As such, it rarely requires us to do something groundbreaking.

It boils down to looking good and being easy to use and understand. Good design excels in each of these areas.

Yet we don’t always see things that way. We may see cutting-edge features and feel like we don’t measure up. That’s why browsing collections like Awwwards can be both inspiring and a bit depressing.

OK, maybe you can’t call your work groundbreaking. So what? That doesn’t speak to its quality.

Besides, there’s a great benefit in being consistent. Clients will know that you’re capable of taking care of their needs.

How Project Variety Affects Your Portfolio

Specific client and project types mean a lot when it comes to design. They go a long way towards determining the appropriate look and features.

The point is to make your clients look their best, after all. That often means staying within the expected parameters. We must ensure that the website helps clients achieve their goals.

For example, a law firm’s website should look clean and professional. There won’t be a lot of room for far-out special effects or typography. However, a site for a photographer or visual artist naturally lends itself to experimentation.

Sometimes, the biggest obstacle to being creative is having the opportunity to do so. That’s why variety matters so much. Working on different types of projects will result in a balanced portfolio. It’s a chance to demonstrate your full range of skills.

The opposite can also be true. If you work within a particular niche or budget, your projects will have a similar look and feel. It’s not a judgment of one’s abilities. It’s the result of designing for the realities of a given project.

Changing Things Up When Possible

What if your typical client doesn’t offer much room for creativity? So be it. This doesn’t mean that you have to settle for boring design.

There are still plenty of ways to add your signature style to the mix. Areas such as layouts and micro-interactions can make a statement. And they don’t have to be groundbreaking.

Try to make the most of what a project affords you. Don’t worry about creating something Awwwards-worthy. There is still room for creativity. And that will shine through in your portfolio.

Potential clients may well notice the difference. The attention to detail will be apparent. And it may be what sets you apart from the competition.

Beyond that, your portfolio needs to reflect the types of projects you want to attract. Do you want to change your narrative? Start a side project or go all out on your portfolio design. That can help you show more depth.

Redefine the Purpose of Your Portfolio

A portfolio can mean different things to different people. It all depends on what you do and who your target audience is.

For instance, a freelance web designer’s portfolio may serve a different purpose than that of a 3D animator. For the freelancer, it could be about showing consistent quality over several projects. Sporting a similar look and feel isn’t such a bad thing. Having that “wow” factor may be more important for the animator in our scenario.

So, if you look at your past projects and see a certain sameness to them, try not to take it as a negative. Consider how each of those projects turned out. Were they successful? If so, that might be a good enough reason to shift your perception.

The post Do All of the Projects in Your Portfolio Look the Same? That’s OK. appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

I’ve worked with everyone, from solo entrepreneurs to large organizations. It’s interesting to pick out the similarities and differences. And it has helped me reach a comfort level when working in different scenarios.

However, some clients see this as a bug, not a feature. They believe that a web designer should have in-depth knowledge of their niche.

I can understand their thinking. A web designer who has never worked with a non-profit may not be the best option for a charity. But what if they have worked in eCommerce? Could that experience also be relevant to the client’s goals?

The web has matured and standardized. As such, maybe the idea of industry expertise is outdated. Perhaps finding out what a client needs is most important.

What Makes a Client Unique?

No two organizations are the same. Sure, there may be overlapping similarities. But they each have unique goals and processes.

Thus, there can be stark differences between clients within the same industry. That applies to their websites as well. For example, what worked for Client A may not be relevant to Client B. The same goes for design and branding.

That’s why even basic knowledge of their niche may be enough. You can learn through experience. But you could also study websites from other organizations. They can be a great source of ideas.

It’s more important to find out what makes a client unique. Ask lots of questions. Learn about their goals and the story behind them. Discover the obstacles that stand in their way.

Doing so will tell you about their needs. You can then develop a plan to help them succeed.

We Create Solutions Based on Need – Not Industry

A client’s needs may be unique. However, the underlying technologies of the web are more generic.

Web hosting is a prime example. We often recommend a host based on need. Factors like the site’s size and expected traffic play into the decision. Your client’s niche plays little to no role.

Likewise, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP pay no mind to a website’s industry. They work the same for a medical practice as they do a video game community.

We instead take what we learn about a client and get to work. Skills like data wrangling and content organization shine in this context. An understanding of best practices for design and accessibility also helps.

It’s more about translating client needs into solutions. Experience, regardless of niche, is the key to making it work.

Take a Client-First Approach

If a potential client has concerns about your industry experience, talk to them. Having an honest conversation about their project can do wonders.

Building a website is a collaborative process. And your ability to work with a client should outweigh any worries about their niche. Frankly, all of the experience in the world means nothing without collaboration.

I’ve worked with clients who had websites built by niche agencies. These were not your typical high-quality services, however. They took a one-size-fits-all approach. They offered a limited number of options while charging a premium.

It’s a way to get a quick, albeit expensive, website. Does it serve a client’s best interest? That seems unlikely.

Maybe that agency had vast experience in a particular field. But that only helps if they take the time to engage their clients. Otherwise, the results won’t reflect the client’s needs.

A client-first approach works better for everyone. That holds across industries.

Niche Still Matters. But It’s Not Everything.

None of this means that a client’s niche is irrelevant. If it matters to them, it should matter to us as well.

Still, it may not be as important as we think. The tools we use are typically the same. The same principles apply to solving challenges.

There may be a few industry-specific exceptions. Apps that manage privacy or legal compliance come to mind. But that impacts a client regardless of who they hire to design their website.

Maybe we’re better off focusing on the client. Their website is a reflection of who they are. Their industry is only one part of the story.

The post Do Web Designers Need to Know About Their Clients’ Niche? appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

• Who are you designing for?
• Are you putting your client’s needs first?
• Is showing off the project in your portfolio a motivating factor?

You’d like to think that most designers are ethical. And they’ll keep their focus entirely on client needs.

But we’re all human. And sometimes, we add bells and whistles to a project for the wrong reasons. We may not even be aware of what we’re doing.

It comes down to those little decisions we make during the design process. Sure, they can enhance our portfolios. But they may not have a positive impact elsewhere.

Thus, understanding our motivation is crucial. Are we focused on our clients or ourselves? How can you tell the difference? Let’s try and identify who that fancy feature is benefitting.

Look What I Can Do!

I’m fascinated by all the cool trends sweeping the web. Sometimes a new feature will grab my attention. And I simply can’t wait to use it in a project.

Parallax scrolling is a prime example. It’s a widely used effect. But I’ve yet to add it to one of my projects.

Then, I found myself working on a website that seemed like a good fit. It included a stunning hero image that would wow users. So I implemented it.

Technically speaking, the result worked well enough. I beamed with pride when thinking about my accomplishment. And I know that my client will love the aesthetic.

The reality was different. My client wasn’t thrilled about the feature. They correctly pointed out that the effect was distracting to users. It took attention away from the page’s goal of driving conversions.

It turns out that the effect made the site harder to use. It didn’t help visitors find what they were looking for any faster. If anything, it got in the way. So, what went wrong?

Looking back, I was focused on the wrong thing. I used parallax scrolling just because I could. And it didn’t improve the finished product.

I wasn’t happy with myself. This was like a child being mischievous to get a parent’s attention. It may work. But not without annoying someone along the way.

Features Should Have a Purpose

Don’t get me wrong. We can still make use of cutting-edge features. But the feature needs to serve a purpose. Whatever we implement should solve a problem or improve the user experience.

Microinteractions, for instance, can be a great way to guide users along a path. They can make processes more intuitive. And animation can call attention to an important piece of information. It’s all about picking the right time and place for using them.

We run into problems when adding features without defining their purpose. Think about what a given feature should accomplish. Is it just for showing off? Or will it benefit both users and your client?

Web design is nothing if not a “me too” industry. We often use these elements to prop up our ego and income. Plus, none of us want to appear to be behind the times.

But we may come to a different conclusion if we’re honest about the project’s needs. Many (if not all) of these extras can likely be left out.

A good rule of thumb: If it doesn’t add anything useful to the final product, it doesn’t belong.

What about Client Requests?

Web designers aren’t the only ones adding bells and whistles. Our clients often request these features as well. So, what do we do in these instances?

It’s a tricky situation. We want to keep our clients happy. But we also need to think about best practices. And we owe our clients an honest assessment.

Therefore, the same philosophy should apply. Discuss feature requests with your client. Be sure to mention the pros and cons of implementing them. Most importantly, try to define their purpose.

It may be enough to change their mind. And if not, at least you tried to put the project’s needs first. You can’t win them all.

Design for Your Project, Not Your Portfolio

Great design exists to make things better. However, getting there takes a lot of thought and some soul-searching.

In the end, it’s about finding the right solutions for the task at hand. Having an impressive portfolio means a lot to our success. But doing right by our clients means even more.

With that in mind, it’s OK if your portfolio is missing those trendy features. Maybe you haven’t found the right time yet. There may be an opportunity to implement them down the road.

It’s more important to help clients solve problems and achieve their goals. That will mean more to your chances of future success than anything else.

The post How to Balance Client Needs vs. Your Portfolio appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.