Explore the pros and cons, costs, and alternatives in this insightful blog post to make an informed decision.
For galleries, creating an effective online presence is crucial as more sales move online. However, the decision of whether to hire a web developer or use a website builder is significant and depends on various factors.
Why Hire a Web Developer?
Hiring a web developer might be necessary if you have a specific vision for your website that requires custom design or complex features. Developers specialize in building unique websites and can offer design expertise to bring your ideas to life. However, this route comes with its challenges.
Downsides of Working with a Developer
• Finding a Developer: Locating a reliable developer can be difficult and time-consuming. It’s essential to vet candidates
thoroughly by asking for references and reviewing their previous work.
• Cost: Custom websites can be expensive, ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 upfront, with ongoing maintenance costs for updates and changes.
• Time and Attention: Since developers often juggle multiple clients, galleries may experience delays or unresponsiveness. Additionally, someone from your gallery will need to manage the project, which can divert time from other critical tasks like selling art.
Alternatives to Hiring a Developer
Thankfully, galleries no longer need to rely solely on developers. Various website builders now offer accessible and affordable options.
Mainstream Website Builders
Platforms like Wix or Squarespace are popular due to their affordability and ease of use. However, they may not seamlessly integrate with gallery-specific tools, potentially leading to double data entry and less efficient management of inventory and sales.
Gallery-Specific Website Builders
Gallery management systems, such as ArtCloud, provide integrated website builders that simplify the process by eliminating the need for double data entry. These platforms are designed with galleries in mind, offering features that connect your inventory, client records, and website. This ensures better tracking of sales and client interactions, making it easier to manage your gallery’s operations.
ArtCloud’s drag-and-drop builder has evolved to give galleries more control over their website’s appearance, allowing for greater customization while maintaining ease of use. This approach provides the benefits of working with a developer—such as a personalized, professional website—without the associated costs and complexities.
Key Considerations
When choosing a gallery-specific website builder, ensure it offers:
• Mobile Optimization: Websites should be designed with mobile-first indexing in mind.
• Responsive Design: The site should look and function well across all devices.
• SEO Features: Effective navigation menus and built-in SEO tools are crucial for improving your gallery’s visibility online.
ArtCloud’s builder is designed to meet these needs, empowering galleries to create and maintain professional, customized websites that reflect their unique brand.
The Bottom Line
Whatever route you choose for your website, be sure to weigh your options and carefully consider the long-term implications of your decision, both in terms of direct financial costs and your staff's time.
At the end of the day, you need a website that is focused first and foremost on your clients and creating a great user experience, and optimized for SEO.
Want a CRM, inventory tool, marketing management tool,
and a website rolled into one package?
Try ArtCloud.
