Should you hire a Freelancer?
So you need to revamp your web presence and are torn between the Big Web Agency in town, the Global Impersonal (but cheap) Site Factory Conglomerate, or a local Freelancer. Here are some quick tips to help determine which direction you’ll want to take:
Big Web
…has done some amazing work around town, maybe even for your competitors. They have lots of testimonials, staff, and a fancy office with comfortable overstuffed sofas in the lobby. Their reputation is solid and their balance sheet is a testament to their marketing success and client list. The very size of Big Web can imply security and confidence in enlisting their services. Big Web is a good choice for large, complex websites involving commerce, security functions or multiple CMS administrators.
Global Conglomerate
…offers an assortment of über afforable packages available at the click of your mouse, but you’re afraid there may not be someone at the other end of the line should you need support – and rightfully so. Response time may be days if not a week, and there’s little personal investment in your business’s success. You really are just a number.
Freelancer
…comes by word-of-mouth, self interest, or good marketing. She’s available now; either in person, online, or over the phone, and works very closely with the client to get the job done. Her portfolio of work is compact but interesting, and shows a variety of original ideas, projects, and clients. The Freelancer is skilled, organized, flexible,and focused. She takes a personal interest in every project, wants the client to succeed and is the ONLY contact person, taking on all the necessary design and development responsibilities. She represents better value for the money as there are rarely any hidden fees, delayed response time, or complex contractual details to overcome before a project can begin.
For personal service, the right choice may be either Big Web or Freelancer, depending on the size and complexity of your site. Big Web may be in a position to deliver bigger projects more quickly than Freelancer, and Freelancer may be just the right fit for medium or small websites. If your project requires the use of a particular language or technology and involves E-commerce, secure servers, and multiple administrators at various locations, it’s a good idea to seek out Big Web.
