Should You Hire
A Designer or DIY?
Deciding whether to hire a Graphic Designer or take a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach depends on your situation, goals, and resources.
When DIY Might Be Best?
If designing feels overwhelming or frustrating, assess the reasons behind your struggle:
Skill Gaps:
Design Basics: If you have a creative eye but lack design knowledge, consider learning basics through books, courses, or tutorials.
Software Challenges: Struggling with complex tools like Adobe? Try simpler alternatives like Canva or invest in pre-made templates.
Technical Hurdles:
For website creation, user-friendly platforms like Squarespace or WordPress templates can simplify the process. Outsourcing complex aspects like coding can also help.
Time Constraints:
If your time is better spent elsewhere in your business, outsourcing design tasks may be more efficient.
When to Hire a Designer
Hiring a professional can elevate your brand, but timing is crucial.
Early-Stage Risks:
Avoid investing heavily in design if your business is still evolving (e.g., changing your name or services).
Ensure clarity about your brand’s purpose, audience, and goals before hiring a designer.
Established Businesses:
If you’re ready to scale, rebrand, or need a professional touch for specific projects, hiring a designer can add value.
Rebranding or Pivoting:
Transitioning to a new direction? A designer can help create visuals that reflect your refined vision and boost confidence in your brand.
Budgeting for Design Services
Professional design is an investment. Before hiring:
Assess Your Budget:
Small projects like logos may cost a few hundred Rands, while full branding and websites can run into thousands.
Prioritize critical needs if funds are limited, such as starting with a logo or simple website customization.
Research Costs:
Browse designers’ portfolios and pricing or inquire in relevant forums for estimates.
Alternatives to Hiring a Designer
Learn Design Skills:
Use tools like Canva or Adobe Creative Cloud
Explore design books or online resources such as YouTube and blogs.
Use Pre-Made Templates:
Templates save time and ensure consistency. Customize them with your brand colors and fonts for a professional look.
Experiment and Practice:
Take inspiration from platforms like Pinterest or Dribbble. Practice refining your style, but avoid sharing work too close to others’ designs to steer clear of copyright issues.
Preparing to Hire a Designer
If you’ve decided to outsource, preparation is key and depending on the level of the designer, they can also assist you with the following as part of their service offerings:
Clarify Your Vision:
Define your message, audience, and desired style. Collect inspiration on platforms like Pinterest.
Organize Content:
Prepare text, images, and any existing assets to streamline the design process.
Plan Deliverables:
List what you need: logos, banners, templates, or a full branding package.
Set a Budget:
Have a primary and stretch budget for flexibility. Communicate openly with designers about your needs and constraints.
Establish a Timeline:
If you have deadlines (e.g., product launches), factor that into the project schedule.
Hiring a designer can save time and bring expertise, but it’s not always the right choice for every stage of your business. Assess your skills, resources, and needs to decide if DIY or hiring a professional will help you achieve your goals effectively.
If you decide to hire a designer, send us a message below and we’ll schedule a call to discuss your project.