The truth behind 'cheap website design' pitch

How you get caught in a 'web' of lies while looking for a 'cheap website'

WEBSITE DESIGN

Navdeep Singh Mangat (with team PROMOT)

5/21/20242 min read

white and black no smoking sign
white and black no smoking sign

In today's digital age, having a robust online presence for a business starts with a good website. However, many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in India often fall into the trap of opting for cheap website design services, hoping to save money. Unfortunately, this cost-saving measure can lead to a host of problems, resulting in a website that lies dormant and fails to achieve its intended purpose. Here’s why investing in quality website design is essential for your business's success.

Communication Barriers and Language Issues

When SMBs opt for cheap website design services, they often end up with providers from large corporations or foreign companies offering free or low-cost websites. This choice might seem cost-effective initially, but it comes with significant drawbacks. One of the most common issues is communication. Clients frequently find it challenging to communicate their needs and expectations clearly, especially when dealing with providers who do not speak their language fluently or offer limited customer support in English.

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful project. Misunderstandings and miscommunications can lead to a website that does not reflect the client’s vision, resulting in a site that does not engage its target audience or meet business goals.

The Dormant Website Dilemma

A common outcome of opting for cheap website services is a website that lies dormant. These websites often come with limited functionalities, poor design, and a lack of necessary features to attract and retain visitors. As a result, the site fails to generate traffic, leads, or sales, rendering it ineffective.

Moreover, cheap website providers typically do not offer ongoing support or maintenance. This means that when issues arise or updates are needed, clients are left in the lurch, unable to keep their website functional and up-to-date. Consequently, the website loses its effectiveness over time, becoming an obsolete digital footprint rather than a powerful marketing tool.

Expiry and Trust Issues

Another critical issue is the lack of proper management of domains, hosting, and emails. Many clients are not notified when their domain registration, hosting, or email services are about to expire. This oversight can lead to a sudden loss of online presence, which can be perceived negatively by customers and partners. A website that goes offline or an email that stops working due to expired services can damage the business’s credibility and reputation.

The Importance of Quality Web Design

Investing in quality web design services might seem like a higher upfront cost, but it offers long-term benefits that far outweigh the initial savings of cheap alternatives. Here are some key advantages of working with reputable, professional web designers:

  • Customized Solutions: Quality designers provide tailored solutions that align with your business goals and target audience, ensuring a website that is both attractive and functional.

  • Ongoing Support: Professional services include ongoing maintenance and support, keeping your website updated and secure.

  • Better Communication: Local designers understand your market and language, facilitating clear communication and a better understanding of your needs.

  • Enhanced Credibility: A well-designed, regularly updated website enhances your business’s credibility and reputation.

In a nutshell, while the allure of cheap website design services might be strong, the long-term consequences can be detrimental to your business. Poor communication, dormant websites, and unmanaged domain or hosting expirations can harm your business’s online presence and credibility. Investing in quality web design services from reputable, local professionals ensures that your website effectively supports your business goals and growth. Don't let the promise of saving a few bucks compromise the potential success of your digital footprint.