Freelance Career on Speckyboy Design Magazine https://speckyboy.com/topic/freelance-career/ Design News, Resources & Inspiration Fri, 15 Dec 2023 06:18:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Will Replacing Creative Professionals with AI Backfire? https://speckyboy.com/will-replacing-creative-professionals-with-ai-backfire/ https://speckyboy.com/will-replacing-creative-professionals-with-ai-backfire/#respond Mon, 04 Dec 2023 11:49:32 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=156459 AI could impact all creative professionals in one way or another. Web designers, developers, and graphic artists are among them.

The post Will Replacing Creative Professionals with AI Backfire? appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
Tools touting artificial intelligence (AI) haven’t been around for very long. But that hasn’t stopped companies from taking a leap of faith with them. Some have even attempted to replace humans with ChatGPT or similar apps.

One such experiment came from Sports Illustrated. The venerable publication has allegedly published AI-generated writers and content on its website. They went so far as to source AI author profile pictures as well.

They’re not the first to try this. CNET tested a similar strategy. There’s no doubt that other companies will follow.

The quest for cheap (or free) content is hitting writers. But it could impact all creative professionals in one way or another. Web designers, developers, and graphic artists are among them.

How far might companies go? And what sort of backlash could they face? I have a few thoughts on what might happen.



Let’s Go Hypothetical with Taylor Swift

Just humor me here. I’m trying to imagine the lengths a company might go to save money. And how they might replace a creative professional with AI. Thus, here’s a hypothetical scenario starring Miss Taylor Swift.

Swift is pulling in a massive amount of cash. Her Eras tour has raked in billions of dollars. She’s a media darling and has fans all over the world. She’s irreplaceable – right? Well, it wouldn’t be shocking if someone tried.

Let’s suppose a record label had all of her recorded music. Perhaps they feed these tracks into an AI model. The app “learns” her lyrical style and the tone of her voice.

Now, that record label has a big idea. Their AI model can generate new songs using Swift’s signature style.

They can replicate her voice. Perhaps they don’t want to go that far, though. It will likely have legal ramifications. But they can change things up just enough to sound similar. And that may be enough to produce a hit.

Would fans accept AI-generated music? The song uses a proven formula, after all. Therefore, let’s assume they do.

Playing this song on the radio may work well. But what about a concert tour? People will want to connect with this hot new artist – or a facsimile of one. It’s a key ingredient to a successful brand.

This fictional record label could hire an actor to lip-sync on stage. A modern-day Milli Vanilli, perhaps. But this doesn’t guarantee an Eras-like hit. The problem is in creating a personal connection.

Swift connects with her fans on an authentic level. She has built her reputation over many years. The idea of replacing her with an actor who “visualizes” an AI tune may be a bridge too far for fans. At least, that’s what I’m hoping.

Could AI try to replicate the success of Taylor Swift?

The Question of Long-Term Success

The scenario above may seem ridiculous. But it’s significantly cheaper than paying an artist. And that’s the worry. Companies will be enticed by the possibilities. And they won’t need to work at the scale of a knockoff Taylor Swift.

A website owner may decide that they can get by without a developer. An ad agency might trust DALL·E to do the work of a graphic designer. Anyone capable of writing a prompt could do this work.

The quality of the work is another matter. After all, it was relatively easy for humans to pick apart the Sports Illustrated articles. Search engines will probably do the same. Why should Google reward such laziness?

Now, back to our industry. I’ve opined before about AI’s impact on web designers. I believe that people will try all manner of ways to save money. But a great website still requires a human touch.

We may see a cycle similar to that of DIY website builders. People will try them. Some will be dissatisfied with the results. That’s when they’ll seek out a professional. I think the same is possible with AI.

AI tools will surely improve. But are they reliable enough for long-term success? That may be the defining question of this era (see what I did there?)

AI tools may not provide the same level of quality.

The Acceptance and Expectations for AI

How or if AI replaces creative professionals may come down to our acceptance and expectations. That goes for both decision-makers and the public.

The latter may inform the former. If the public consumes AI-generated content without complaint, AI will spread like wildfire. Companies will continue to test the boundaries.

But what if conversions and SEO rankings start to plummet? We’ll likely see a change in course.

Much may depend on where AI shows up. Consumers may not blink at “disposable” content like Sports Illustrated generated. But they may demand higher quality from journalistic content.

Expectations also play a role for companies. Will they consider an AI-generated website good enough? Or will they prefer the attention to detail of human designers?

We’re still early in the game. The answers will determine the impact on how creative professionals are valued.

Public acceptance of AI-generated content will determine its future.

Where Is This All Headed?

I’m betting that AI will become a foundation for many types of projects. Perhaps it seizes the low end of the market. For example, it could spell trouble for those building fast and cheap websites.

But it doesn’t signal the end for skilled humans. Talented people will continue to thrive.

It does feel like a period of adjustment, though. Thus, any feelings of unease are understandable.

I don’t have all the answers. But I hope that continuing to learn and grow will help. In the end, maybe that’s all we can do. Prove our worth time and again.

Meanwhile, we can watch as AI evolves and brings chaos to multiple industries.

The post Will Replacing Creative Professionals with AI Backfire? appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/will-replacing-creative-professionals-with-ai-backfire/feed/ 0
A Web Designer’s Secrets to Longevity https://speckyboy.com/web-designers-secrets-to-longevity/ https://speckyboy.com/web-designers-secrets-to-longevity/#respond Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:17:26 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=155668 Being a web designer for 25+ years is hard to fathom. So much has changed, and achieving longevity in web design is really not easy.

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

]]>
The web has been around for 30+ years. And we’ve reached a point where “old timers” exist within the industry. In this case, let’s define it as anyone with more than 15 years of experience.

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.

Find a niche that fuels enthusiasm.

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.

Embrace new technologies that add value to your skill set.

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.

Contribute to areas of the web design community that you care about.

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.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/web-designers-secrets-to-longevity/feed/ 0
The Unpredictable Life of a Freelance Web Designer https://speckyboy.com/unpredictable-life-freelance-web-designer/ https://speckyboy.com/unpredictable-life-freelance-web-designer/#respond Wed, 11 Oct 2023 06:57:58 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=154314 Sometimes web designers need to shift gears faster than a Ferrari. How do we cope with it? And what can we do to lessen the need?

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

]]>
I’ve been a freelance web designer since 1999. And I know where I’ll be most days. I’m usually here at my desk, plugging away at projects.

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.

A client emergency can disrupt your schedule

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.

Prioritize tasks based on importance, client revenue, and deadlines

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.

Find healthy ways to cope with stress

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.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/unpredictable-life-freelance-web-designer/feed/ 0
Here’s What It Was like to Build a Website in the 90s https://speckyboy.com/90s-build-website/ https://speckyboy.com/90s-build-website/#respond Mon, 02 Oct 2023 05:05:12 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=154229 Building a website in the 90s was undeniably different. We made mistakes, but that's OK, as the lessons learned have brought us to the present.

The post Here’s What It Was like to Build a Website in the 90s appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
I’m still fascinated by all aspects of the 1990s. Coming of age during the decade is a big reason why. But there’s more to the story.

The 90s were also a golden age for technology as well. The personal computer made its way into the mainstream. And so did the World Wide Web. As such, I started toying with web design during this period.

Building a website in those days was undeniably different. The web design industry was nascent – if it existed at all. Standards and best practices were still years away. Web designers had to adapt existing tools for this new medium.

We made a lot of mistakes. But that’s OK. The lessons learned in that era have brought us to the present.

What was it like to build a website back in the day? Here are a few observations based on my experiences. One obstacle does stand in my way, though. I hope that I can remember that far back!




Web Design without a Map

I first began experimenting with HTML in 1995. The web was very much a novelty. Thus, few organizations had a website.

Web designers had no history to work from. We couldn’t, for example, find previous examples of successful websites. And there were no guides to tell us the ingredients of a great site.

That lack of precedent had benefits. We had the freedom to try all manner of designs and layouts. There were no trends to follow. With that came the chance to establish our own.

There were some downsides, though. We didn’t account for factors like accessibility. Websites from that era had all manner of issues. Poor color contrast, tiny fonts, and intense animation were among them.

We made things up as we went along. And that philosophy covered every aspect of a website.

Digital photography was scarce in the 1990s. Much time was spent manually scanning photos.

Tools? What Tools?

Where would we be without web design tools? From code editors to prototyping, they help us work more efficiently.

The right tools are essential for modern web design. But early web designers had no such luxury. There were very few apps aimed at this new medium.

My toolbox consisted of a plain text editor (Windows Notepad) and a graphics app (MS Paint). Not exactly a dynamic duo for web design. But repurposing apps was common.

Even Photoshop was ill-equipped in those days. Its “Save for Web” feature wasn’t introduced until version 5.5. That meant large file sizes and little optimization.

Plus, helpful features like code hinting weren’t yet available. There were no frameworks to provide a quick start to projects. That meant manually writing code.

There were also few references for learning HTML. A handful of extraordinarily thick books existed. But the best way to learn was by viewing the source code of other sites. This technique also came in handy when CSS and JavaScript hit the scene.

Books were among the few HTML references available.

Managing Content was a Hassle

We’ve become accustomed to using content management systems (CMS) like WordPress. But such apps were still years away from mainstream availability.

In the beginning, every page was a separate HTML file. Website navigation consisted of links to these files. As you might expect, there were also links within the page content.

Large websites could get incredibly complex. For example, my first job was working on a newspaper’s website. It grew from a handful of pages to over a thousand.

Ensuring that every link worked was like wrestling a giant squid. Changing the navigation was also a challenge. You might have to make the same edit to every file on the site. The advent of Server Side Includes (SSI) eventually simplified the process.

You also had to consider the site’s file structure. Everything was built from the ground up. Consistent file locations and naming conventions were vital. I came up short on a few occasions. But that’s how you learn!

Planning for future growth was essential. Otherwise, you may end up having to refactor the entire thing.

Most early websites consisted of static HTML.

Technology Was Exciting, but Limited

As I mentioned, the 90s were a transformative time for technology. It seemed like computers were changing the world daily.

There were still some limiting factors, however. The computers of the day had little processing power. Graphics were also paltry compared to today’s standard. And we can’t forget the painfully slow internet speeds.

It’s a good thing websites were simple. Users didn’t have the necessary tools to view anything large or complex. Using a 28.8 kbit/s modem, it would take nearly 5 minutes to download a 1MB file. And that’s assuming a stable connection.

These technological limitations presented a challenge to web designers. Using large images was out of the question. Audio and video content had to be highly compressed. And a lack of standard formats meant relying on third-party software like Flash or Real Player.

None of this stopped designers from implementing poor practices. Some websites added “features” like background audio and proprietary code (thanks, Internet Explorer).

Oh, and if you haven’t experienced dial-up internet, the following video offers a great demonstration.

We Had No Idea What the Web Would Become

The web’s novelty wore off within a few years. It slowly became a necessity for all types of organizations. And the audience had grown beyond hardcore computer geeks.

The seeds of online commerce were beginning to take root. Even so, I had no idea how big the web would become. And I couldn’t foresee the impact of smartphones and wireless internet.

But it’s worth remembering that things didn’t start that way. The 1990s version of the web seems light-years away from the present.

Little did we know that our experiments would lead to something bigger. A platform that adopted standards and developed trusted techniques. Not to mention methods for interacting with data in real-time.

Maybe the web is a better place in terms of technology. But it couldn’t be more fun than it was back in the day. It was amazing to witness.

The post Here’s What It Was like to Build a Website in the 90s appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/90s-build-website/feed/ 0
What My Old Design Projects Have Taught Me https://speckyboy.com/old-design-projects/ https://speckyboy.com/old-design-projects/#respond Thu, 21 Sep 2023 07:35:57 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=109114 I've felt embarrassed when looking through my old projects. But time brings perspective. Eventually, you start to see things in a different light.

The post What My Old Design Projects Have Taught Me appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
What do you see when reviewing your portfolio? Maybe it brings back memories of a challenge you faced or a difficult client. Perhaps you cringe at the sight of a dated look or extinct technology. I hear you.

My career has had its share of hits and misses. I’ve felt embarrassed when looking through my old projects. But time brings perspective. Eventually, you start to see things in a different light.

All projects offer a learning experience. Even the ones that didn’t have a positive outcome. As such, I wanted to share some of the most important lessons that I’ve learned.

Here are a few takeaways from those blasts from the past. Maybe they weren’t so bad after all?



Code Is More Resilient Than You Think

I’ve had to retrofit several old websites for use on mobile devices. These sites were built in the days before smartphones changed the world. They needed to look and function well on small screens.

I discovered that this wasn’t as hard as I anticipated. I had a wide range of sites to retrofit. Everything from early experiments in WordPress to table-based HTML.

The table layouts were generally the most time-consuming. However, I was amazed at how well I was able to convert them to CSS. It usually took a few hours. And the CSS-based layouts were even easier to deal with.

This demonstrates that HTML and CSS are resilient. And it’s possible to salvage quite a bit from an older website. That’s not to say everything is semantically perfect. But you can indeed squeeze some more life out of an old site.

CSS and HTML can be repurposed to adhere to best practices

Typography Isn’t an Afterthought

The web was once severely limited when it came to fonts. That may be one of the biggest changes over the past 20 years. But I’m not sure that any amount of cool fonts could have saved me from poor decisions.

For instance, I was obsessed with small type. I’ve found several projects where the font size was too small. Minimal line height forced lines to be squished together. The content was difficult to read.

I have a theory about why I did this. Small text was seen as more visually appealing back then. Plus, display technology wasn’t very good. Fonts often looked jagged at larger sizes. Tiny text was one way to combat that effect. Looks seemed more important than legibility.

The importance of legibility has become clear since then. Type is meant for way more than looking pretty. If it’s not readable, it’s not accessible.

The importance of legible typography has become clear in recent years

Creativity Can (Still) Solve Problems

The various hacks I used to build websites are hilarious. And I know I wasn’t alone in using them.

Workarounds like slicing up large images (and putting them into a table layout, no less), trying to stay compliant with older versions of Internet Explorer, and all manner of vendor prefixes were the norm. They acted like virtual duct tape to hold everything together.

These practices weren’t great. But they were done for a noble cause. The goal was to make a site work for the widest range of users. And that’s still true today.

The concept of using “hacks” is no longer in fashion. But the creative energy behind them certainly is. The difference is that we now have tools to solve design challenges. Creative use of those tools can get us past just about any obstacle.

Creative use of tools like CSS can solve design problems

For Best Results, Clients Require Guidance

This was one of my hardest-learned lessons. As a young designer, client meetings were like taking an order at a restaurant. I wrote down what they wanted and did my best to deliver.

You can get by with this strategy for a little while. But it’s not so great in the long term. Positive outcomes require a solid plan. And it’s nearly impossible to do that when decision-makers don’t have the information they need.

That’s a big part of a web designer’s job. We’re the experts hired to ensure that a website is attractive, functional, and accessible. But we must speak up to keep clients informed.

These days, I’m not afraid to offer an honest assessment of a client’s ideas. I try to help them find the best path forward. It’s usually well-received and appreciated.

And the outcomes are much better, to boot. It becomes obvious as I look at recent projects. They tend to be more well-rounded than the older ones.

Help clients to refine their goals and ideas

Don’t Be Afraid to Change

Change is like a monster hiding underneath my bed. It’s ready to strike the minute I’m comfortable with a process or technology. I once spent an unhealthy amount of time fearing and resisting it.

For example, I was terrified of CSS layouts. The thought of using a database made me break into a cold sweat. Writing PHP? Forget about it.

But a look at my portfolio proves that my fears were unfounded. I don’t claim to be the world’s greatest anything. But I did find a way to evolve. I’ve managed to learn new skills and stay with the times.

Sure, change still sends a little shock to my system (I’m looking at you, JavaScript). Yet, I’m more confident in my ability to adapt. Why? Because I’ve done it before.

The ability to adapt is an important part of being a web designer

Retrace Your Steps as a Web Designer

Love them or not, your old projects are there for a reason. Maybe they don’t live up to your current standards. But there are still valuable lessons to be learned from them.

That’s why I highly recommend taking a look through your archives. You’ll gain some insight into your evolution as a designer. And you can see how you’ve put those lessons to good use.

You may not realize how far you’ve come until you revisit the past.

The post What My Old Design Projects Have Taught Me appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/old-design-projects/feed/ 0
Do All of the Projects in Your Portfolio Look the Same? That’s OK. https://speckyboy.com/portfolio-projects-look-the-same/ https://speckyboy.com/portfolio-projects-look-the-same/#respond Wed, 20 Sep 2023 06:52:52 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=121910 Should you worry if all of your design projects look similar? Of course not. It may mean that you're particularly successful in one specific area of design.

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

]]>
All creative professionals can benefit from having an online portfolio. They’re great for attracting new clients. And they can even provide a trip down memory lane. It’s a chance to see how far you’ve come.

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.

Showing consistency in your portfolio can be reassuring to clients

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.

Working on a variety of projects allows you to use different skills

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.

Small details like styling can help you stand out

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.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/portfolio-projects-look-the-same/feed/ 0
Essential WordPress Block Theme Features for Web Designers https://speckyboy.com/wordpress-block-theme-features-web-designers/ https://speckyboy.com/wordpress-block-theme-features-web-designers/#respond Wed, 23 Aug 2023 07:37:43 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=152746 The number of block themes is increasing, yet not all cater to the needs of web designers. We explore those key block theme features designed for professionals.

The post Essential WordPress Block Theme Features for Web Designers appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
Web designers working with WordPress have always had options. There is a myriad of ways to build a quality website. It’s all about finding the right fit for your needs.

That’s why the newfangled world of block themes has been disruptive. They’re different than classic themes. They don’t rely as heavily on PHP. And then there’s the whole concept of using JSON to define styles and options.

Block themes do come with advantages, however. Using one may mean writing fewer lines of code. And a block-based approach means not having to reinvent the wheel. That’s because many layout and functionality features come standard with WordPress.

The number of available block themes is increasing. But not all are ideal for web designers. We need flexibility and easy customization.

With that in mind, let’s check out some essential WordPress block theme features that focus on professionals.



A Minimalist Approach to Design

Readymade WordPress themes are popular. They promise a faster start on web design projects. Yet they can also be very opinionated.

That clashes with our ability to build custom websites. It seems like you can waste hours ripping a theme apart. You then have to rebuild it to match your vision. Starting from scratch may have been more efficient.

Thus, a minimalist approach makes sense. A strongly opinionated block theme is no better than a classic counterpart. It requires too much effort to customize.

Blockbase may be the best example of a minimalist theme. It makes very few design decisions. It’s the proverbial blank canvas. Still, the theme offers enough options to please designers.

Minimalism is a subjective quality, though. Not everyone wants a blank canvas. A theme that offers a few extra bells and whistles is also worth considering.

The key concept is to spend the bulk of your time moving forward. Some themes make it nearly impossible to do so.

The Blockbase WordPress theme takes a minimalist approach to design

A Selection of Style Variations

Block themes are supposed to make web design easier. And style variations are among their most powerful features. They make it possible to switch color and typography schemes. It takes only a few clicks to transform your site.

Web designers can use this to their advantage. A style variation may make for quicker progress. For example, a theme that offers light and dark color schemes saves us from building them.

This concept also fits with minimalist themes. Style variations that serve as a solid foundation are ideal. We can choose a variation and further customize it within the Site Editor.

Style variations won’t fully represent a finished product. But they are a step in the right direction.

Block themes can offer multiple style variations

A Set of Basic Block Template Parts

Think of block template parts as reusable sections of a theme. They’re not full-blown templates. But we can use them to power smaller areas within a template.

It’s a highly flexible feature. For example, you might create a block template part to display a call-to-action on blog posts. You could also create a variety of layouts for a site’s header. There are so many possibilities here.

A block theme that includes a set of template parts would be helpful. We can add common elements using minimal effort. We’ll have more time to focus on project details.

Let’s use Blockbase as an example. The theme includes several header variations. Everything from minimal to full-width options is available.

We can change header layouts within the Site Editor. Customization is easy. We have the option to edit the existing blocks or add new ones.

But why stop at headers? A theme could also include block template parts for other areas. Footers, sidebars, author bios, and navigation styles are possibilities. Anything to improve efficiency is worth considering.

Block Template Parts can be strategically placed throughout your theme

Custom Block Patterns for Niche Sites

Like block template parts, block patterns are reusable. However, block patterns are implemented at the content level. We can add them to any page or post.

Patterns once again save us from reinventing the wheel. And they can range from basic layouts to (almost) fully-formed content areas.

WordPress offers a community-driven block pattern directory. Find a pattern you like and then paste it into your page. Or import custom patterns directly within the block editor.

Theme authors can also include custom block patterns. The advantage is that these patterns can better reflect the theme. For example, they may take typography and color into account. That makes for a seamless fit with the existing design.

Authors might offer patterns that fit the theme’s niche. Including grid patterns or card layouts to a magazine theme, for instance. A portfolio theme could also provide galleries or project listing patterns.

Block patterns can make it easier to add popular design features to a page

Regardless of Theme Type, Web Designers Have the Same Needs

For web designers, the decision to work with block themes is nuanced. Block themes are the future of theming. But they work differently than the classic variety. As such, it’s easy to lose sight of what makes a block theme worthwhile.

There are some common threads, though. Web designers still need flexibility. We need a solid and unopinionated foundation. And we can’t forget simple options to help achieve project goals.

These are the same qualities we look for in a classic theme. The good news is that some block themes take web professionals into account. They eschew bloated features and focus on real-world solutions.

Regardless of the type of theme we use, needs don’t change. That’s worth remembering as we navigate a new era of building websites.

The post Essential WordPress Block Theme Features for Web Designers appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/wordpress-block-theme-features-web-designers/feed/ 0
Twitter/X Is Doing Its Best to Chase Away Web Designers https://speckyboy.com/twitter-x-chase-away-web-designers/ https://speckyboy.com/twitter-x-chase-away-web-designers/#respond Tue, 22 Aug 2023 06:36:42 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=152740 I've stuck with Twitter – even through the awkward rebrand. But what about the many niche web design communities? Will they survive?

The post Twitter/X Is Doing Its Best to Chase Away Web Designers appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
Twitter has been my go-to social network for over a decade. I found community there. For all its faults, there are also benefits.

There are always interesting people to talk to – regardless of subject. It’s a place where I could talk about web design. But also a spot to follow my favorite sports teams. Or discuss new music.

The platform has offered a great place to connect professionally and personally. And it also provided portability. Embedded tweets and timelines were easy to implement. They facilitated the growth of one’s network.

But my heart has been weary ever since Elon Musk announced his intention to buy Twitter. And his post-acquisition actions haven’t helped. If anything, they’ve confirmed my fears.

I’m not the only concerned citizen. Other users have left the platform for the likes of Mastodon and Threads. I created accounts on those services – but haven’t used them.

I’ve stuck with Twitter – even through the awkward rebrand. But what about the many niche web design communities? Will they survive the turmoil?



Why Twitter and Web Design Go Together

Twitter has never had the mass appeal of Facebook. But its no-nonsense UI made it easier to connect with others. Users could quickly find and participate in niche communities.

That has certainly been the case for web designers. Twitter has been a great place to discover new tools. And there is no shortage of learning content. It has served our industry well.

What happens if the platform fizzles out? Niche communities can still exist on the web. And they can tie in with Fediverse-based services like Mastodon. But it’s still a more scattered landscape.

The beauty of Twitter is that all of your interests can live in one place. It can be overwhelming at times. But it brings people and content together in a unique manner.

More than any other platform, Twitter has been an online space for web designers. I hope we can keep it that way.

The web design community found a home on Twitter

More than Just the Name Has Changed

I’m going to ignore the political discourse of Musk. That’s another post for another publication. However, I will focus on changes to Twitter. Particularly ones that I feel have been negative.

X Marks the What?

Elon Musk has a fascination with the letter X. I can’t pretend to understand him (I’ve always been partial to Y for some reason). But I digress.

As if this weren’t strange enough, the rebrand has drawn the ire of designers. Embedded tweets (if we’re still calling them that) now have the “X” logo on the upper right. It seems to indicate that a user can close the window. And no, it doesn’t work.

I can’t say if any of this makes business sense. But degrading the user experience (UX) isn’t productive. The design community may get a laugh out of the changes. But it doesn’t sit well in the long term.

And web designers may be stuck swapping out social sharing logos on the sites we manage. It’s not a way to ingratiate yourself with design pros.

Self-Inflicted API Woes

Auto publishing to Twitter has long been a popular feature. WordPress users could write a piece of content and send it directly to Twitter via an API. It no longer works, thanks to API monetization efforts.

But that’s not the only self-inflicted wound. Embedded tweets also stopped working for a time. It was a move to battle content scraping. The functionality eventually came back.

Embedded timelines have also been rendered useless. They stopped working around the same time as embedded tweets. Calls to repair them have gone unanswered as of this writing. But some feeds have inexplicably come back to life.

Monetization is understandable. Stripping core functionality is unacceptable. It’s also a turnoff to those of us who serve clients. The platform will become more trouble than it is worth. If it hasn’t already crossed that threshold, that is.

All Manner of Annoyances

Twitter’s stability has also become a fiasco. Significant staff cuts may be to blame.

Recent months have seen numerous incidents. That includes users receiving messages that they’ve reached their tweet limit.

The service has been unusable at times. Users can’t rely on the platform. Thus, they’re unlikely to use it for anything important.

Twitter rebrand has experienced a few hiccups

Why Have Users Stayed?

With all the uncertainty, it’s fair to wonder why anyone has continued to use Twitter. Web designers are a particularly curious case. I’ll include myself in that group.

The changes to the platform have undoubtedly irked web professionals. Advocates of the open web and accessibility have complained loudly. Yet members don’t appear to be leaving in droves.

I have noticed that some in the web design community have left. But most acquaintances have stayed. Why?

I can only speak for myself. But the idea of starting from scratch on another platform isn’t attractive. I’ve spent years connecting with people. Attempting to recreate that community elsewhere seems arduous.

In other words, I’ve been too lazy to move. Perhaps it’s due to my age. But I suspect there’s more to the story.

Leaving Twitter also means giving in to Musk. It seems that he wants to push certain users out the door. That’s the antithesis of other social networks. Then again, Musk is the antithesis of most business leaders. For me, staying is perhaps a small act of defiance. Why should I be the one to leave?

Musk may get bored and sell to a more amenable party. Here’s hoping that I’m more patient than he is.

The post Twitter/X Is Doing Its Best to Chase Away Web Designers appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/twitter-x-chase-away-web-designers/feed/ 0
Discovering the Freedoms of Freelance Design https://speckyboy.com/freedoms-of-freelance-design/ https://speckyboy.com/freedoms-of-freelance-design/#respond Thu, 17 Aug 2023 08:03:56 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=117143 We discuss the types of freedoms that come with freelance design, while also delving into the costs and limitations.

The post Discovering the Freedoms of Freelance Design appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
People tend to assume a lot of things about freelance web designers. I’ve spent over half of my life being one. And I think I’ve heard them all.

Among the greatest hits:

  • “If you get tired of working, you can go watch TV.”
  • “Wow, I bet you could hit the golf course every day.”
  • “Life without a boss!”
  • “You can sleep as much as you want.”

I could go on. But you get the idea.

The common thread is that they all relate to a perceived freedom. And you can’t blame people for assuming. Freedom is one of the big selling points of this career path.

But that’s not the type of freedom I’ve experienced. It got me thinking about the realities and how they differ from the perceptions. Just what type of freedoms come with freelancing? And what are the costs and limitations?



The Freedom of a Personalized Work Environment

Freelancing provides us with the opportunity to work where, when, and how we want. That means if you want to work nights on the beach, you can. It’s not necessarily realistic. But certainly possible.

In my view, this is the biggest benefit. I have a home office, work in a (fairly) private environment, and do something I enjoy every day. This is not the same experience as a traditional office with a room full of colleagues.

This means I can spend more time with my daughter. I’ve also become more disciplined about getting things done. And I’ve had the chance to experiment with how and when I work. Just as important, I can listen to loud music without complaint!

Still, there is a cost. It takes sacrifice (and maybe a little luck) to do things your way. If you want to work odd hours, for example, you’ll need clients who are willing to go along. That may mean severely limiting yourself at first. Or working “normal” hours until the right opportunity comes along.

Freelancers can create a workspace that caters to their preferences

The Freedom to Choose the Right Projects

Every web designer has their ideal project. There are price points, industries, and subjects that appeal to us. We can decide these things for ourselves. Then pursue the projects that match our ideals.

Being picky about who I work with has been a stress reducer. Don’t get me wrong – there’s still stress. But it’s not from feeling stuck or working on projects I don’t like.

There is a caveat, though. It’s not always easy to determine what types of clients and projects you want to work with. This is especially difficult when starting as a freelancer.

So, perhaps this freedom is one earned through experience. The more projects you work on, the more you’ll learn about your preferences. You’ll gain a better sense of what fits and what doesn’t.

It also requires being comfortable with your financial situation. It’s easier to say “no” to a client outside of your niche when you have adequate income.

Freelancers can choose to work with projects that fit their niche

The Freedom to Use Our Favorite Tools

Freelance web designers don’t have to use a specific tool or workflow. One of the most frustrating aspects of previous jobs was being told what I could or couldn’t use. Not to mention being stuck with a computer from the (internet) Stone Age.

I get to choose the hardware and software that suits my needs. No, I can’t afford everything I want. But I can work with what I have to make the most out of each project.

Plus, I can use tools that I believe in. Can you imagine having to sell a client on a content management system (CMS) you don’t like or trust? Even worse, imagine forcing outdated solutions on them. This is an area where corporate mandates can hurt more than they help.

These decisions do come with serious responsibility, though. You’re on the hook if something turns out to be a disaster. There’s no one else to blame.

Oh, well. That’s one advantage of working for someone else!

Freelancers aren't limited to specific tools or technologies

It’s About Making Your Own Choices

The overarching freedom of being a freelancer is the ability to decide for yourself. The assumptions others have about us aren’t completely wrong. But the reality is more nuanced.

Yes, we can choose to watch TV or abandon work for a tee time. But those choices have consequences. Do these things too often and you’re likely to be unemployed.

Success in this field isn’t easy. It takes the courage to make decisions and deal with what comes next. The freedom lies in being the one who gets to steer the ship.

The post Discovering the Freedoms of Freelance Design appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/freedoms-of-freelance-design/feed/ 0
Why Web Design Client Referrals Aren’t a Slam Dunk https://speckyboy.com/web-design-client-referrals/ https://speckyboy.com/web-design-client-referrals/#respond Thu, 10 Aug 2023 14:09:07 +0000 https://speckyboy.com/?p=123667 A client referral for your web design business has the potential to increase revenue and gain valuable experience. But there are no guarantees.

The post Why Web Design Client Referrals Aren’t a Slam Dunk appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
Referrals are an essential ingredient of a successful web design business. They allow you to bypass the costs of traditional marketing. Plus, there’s a great feeling when an existing client recommends you. It means a lot.

It’s not all sunshine, though. Just because a prospective client came to you via a referral doesn’t mean they’re a great fit. Even so, you might feel an obligation to work with them. Therein lies the rub.

Maybe I think too much about these things. But it seems like there is a delicate balance here. Do you book a new client simply because you feel obligated? What’s the etiquette? How will your decision impact the relationship with your existing client? Should I hide under a blanket until this all blows over?

Yeah, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered.



Not All Referrals Are Destined to Succeed

First of all, every referral should be appreciated. And I genuinely do feel a sense of gratitude when a client takes the time to do this.

But a web design referral is a bit different than in other industries. For example, it’s not the same as sending someone to your favorite restaurant or real estate agent.

Those businesses are straightforward. The restaurant will gladly serve your favorite dish. The real estate agent can show you homes that fit your budget. In either case, they provide an immediate service. Then they are out of your life until you need them again.

Web design is unique. It is both highly specialized and often entails a long-term relationship. Thus, it’s not just a matter of making a sale and being on your merry way.

Project Needs vs. Your Specialties and Preferences

Sometimes, a referral is a good fit based on code. If you specialize in Drupal and the prospective client requires WordPress, the writing is pretty much on the wall. Easy enough.

It’s not always that simple, though. For instance, I’ve had several businesses referred to me who needed someone to take over the maintenance of their existing website. In addition, there have been cases where a website wasn’t finished. The client needed someone to step in and tie up the loose ends.

This clashes with one of my core policies. I avoid maintaining websites built by someone else. There are occasional exceptions. But I prefer to build something from the ground up. It’s just a more comfortable situation. I feel more confident in my ability to provide great service.

Perhaps it’s a guilty conscience. But the fact that these were referrals complicated my decision. The idea of letting down an existing client is a powerful thing. Whether that is a realistic view is another subject altogether.

Relationship Matters

Your specialties may differ from a client’s needs. And your potential relationship may not be so promising, either. This needs to be carefully considered before signing up for a project.

Again, a referral can cloud your vision. It’s possible to give someone the benefit of the doubt. You may do so even when all signs tell you otherwise.

I’ve found myself in this situation. Ignoring the red flags, I booked projects. And I almost immediately regretted doing so.

Yet I’ve also had referrals that have worked out wonderfully. The lesson? Scrutinize a referral just as much as you would any other prospective client.

Not every referral will be a good fit for your business

So, What Are the Obligations?

A referral should undergo equal scrutiny. But there is also a case for giving it preferential treatment. These folks are already “in the club,” so to speak.

That doesn’t mean that you must work with them. But it does compel us to listen to what they have to say. After all, there’s no harm in saying “no thanks” if it’s not a fit.

But what if you aren’t booking new projects? It’s probably more polite to say so. This way, you won’t waste anyone’s time.

Regardless, I think there is an obligation to thank your existing client. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate – just a simple thank you note will do.

And what of the potential impact of turning down a referral on your client relationship? That can be tricky. So much depends on the personalities involved. But honesty is the best policy. If things don’t work out, it’s OK to share the outcome if asked.

You aren't obligated to work with someone who was referred to you

Appreciate Referrals While Understanding the Reality

A client referral for your web design business can be a blessing. It has the potential to increase revenue and help you gain valuable experience.

But there are no guarantees. Just because you’ve connected with a prospective client doesn’t mean you’re required to work with them. The vetting process should be the same for everyone.

It’s all about determining whether the opportunity is right. If so, your business will be in a better position for it. But not to worry if things don’t work out.

At the very least, one of your clients was pleased enough with your work to spread the word. And that is always a positive development.

The post Why Web Design Client Referrals Aren’t a Slam Dunk appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

]]>
https://speckyboy.com/web-design-client-referrals/feed/ 0