Bespoke software development agency vs website designers – which do you need?
Businesses today rely on digital solutions for both their backend tools and front-of-house presence. And it’s really common to have some confusion about when you should hire a bespoke software development agency versus a website designer. (Although, we should say, from the outset, that we’re a bit of both.) Today, we’re going to clarify the difference between the two services to help you decide which option suits your needs best. Do you need developers? Or just a designer? Read on for clarification.
What is a website designer?
These are the pros that focus on aesthetics, layouts, UX/UI and front-end web design. They typically use tools like WordPress, Wix and Squarespace, and they will do some minor front-end coding via HTML, CSS or JS to add polish, but nothing complex. They’re great when you want something technologically simple and pretty like business websites, portfolios, landing pages, blogs and online shopfronts. That doesn’t mean it won’t be good! Website designers may be all you need if you’re a law firm, a bricks and mortar store or other simple service provider. When you hire a designer, you’re getting a website with lower upfront costs and faster delivery, but you’re sacrificing functionality in favour of a quick-to-market online presence and visual branding. So, that’s not going to work if you’re in the online retail space or have complex back-end needs.
What is a bespoke software development agency?
Software developers make custom digital solutions from scratch. We’re talking web applications, mobile apps and enterprise backend systems. Across both front-end and back-end, integrations, databases & security, you’re getting a unique architecture. You need a bespoke software development agency if you want to make the most of your CRM systems, booking engines, SaaS platforms, enterprise portals or do something special with your e-commerce shopfront. Sure, there’s often a higher investment and longer timeline, but when you work with developers, you get something custom that’s more scalable and future-proof.
When to choose one over the other
Go for a website designer if you’re a startup or small business that needs an online presence TODAY and you’re on a tight budget. You might never need anything else if you’re a service business that’s focused mainly on marketing yourself. However, if you’ve got a more complex business model or you want to sell products, you’re better off with a bespoke software development agency like Wirebox. We can help you with all the integrations, automation and database architecture that will make your business fit for purpose in a year or five. If you need anything beyond a simple website, you’ll save money in the long run by hiring a designer now, so you’re built for tomorrow from the ground up. It’s a lot harder to change things retroactively once ways of working have been established.
Key takeaway? Bespoke agencies aren’t only for large enterprises; they’re also useful for startups with unique ideas or companies with complex business models.
Need a hand to get your digital project off the ground? Get in touch today.
