What is the first thing people do when they hear about a business? Searching for a website is among the first things that they might do. A strong and useful website is essential for any business hoping to succeed in the modern digital era. However, a lot of businesses—particularly those in the mid-sized category—find it difficult to afford the time, resources, and knowledge needed to have a strong online presence. What should they do?
To solve this problem, outsourcing web design emerges as a strategic solution to these challenges. As per a blog published by SPD Load, as many as 78% of businesses feel optimistic about outsourcing, viewing it as a means to leverage global talent while achieving significant cost savings. But it has more to offer in terms of benefits besides cost savings.
This article aims to provide senior-level executives with a comprehensive understanding of outsourcing web design. From identifying the right outsourcing partner to managing the process effectively, each step will be explored in detail. By the end of this article, readers will be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions that will enhance their company’s web presence without overwhelming their resources.
The Cost Factor
The main factor behind outsourcing has always been cost savings. Outsourcing web design offers the same benefit and can significantly reduce costs. Also, the cost of living and wage differences between countries can result in substantial savings. For example, hiring a web designer in the USA can be quite expensive compared to hiring a talented professional from India. Hiring a website design expert or an agency in Asia cuts costs long-term. On average, companies pay in-house web designers $90,000 annually, while offshore web design professionals can provide the same quality of services for half the price, according to DesignRush in their blog.
Access to a Global Talent Pool
Outsourcing allows access to a broader range of skills and expertise. This global talent pool ensures that specialists can be found for any aspect of web design, from user experience (UX) to visual aesthetics. As Justin Sachtleben (Executive Experience Design Leader at Leva) points out, this wider viewpoint “can be a catalyst for change,” bringing in cutting-edge design patterns and specialized knowledge.
Focus on Core Competencies
By outsourcing web design, companies can focus on their core competencies, ensuring that their in-house team can dedicate their time and resources to activities that directly impact the business’s bottom line. A study by Deloitte’s annual report revealed that 57% of companies outsource to focus on their core business. By assigning time-consuming jobs to service providers, businesses are able to focus on their core competencies and become adaptable enough to deal with shifting market conditions.
Accelerated Time to Market
With a dedicated team working around the clock due to different time zones, projects can be completed faster. This accelerated timeline is crucial for businesses looking to launch new products or services quickly.
There are a few things to consider when looking for an outsourcing partner. These factors will help in finding a suitable partner:
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Define The Project Scope
Before engaging with an outsourcing partner, it’s crucial to clearly define the scope of the project. This includes the website’s purpose, target audience, key functionalities, and design preferences.
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Setting Clear Objectives
Establish clear, measurable objectives for the web design project. Whether it’s increasing user engagement, improving SEO performance, or enhancing the overall user experience, defined goals will guide the project and ensure its success.
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Budgeting for Outsourcing
Determine a realistic budget for the project. This should include not only the cost of the design but also any additional expenses such as project management tools, communication platforms, and potential revisions.
Choosing the Right Outsourcing Partner
Look for outsourcing companies with a proven track record in web design. In this matter, techavidus.com suggests reviewing their portfolio, client testimonials, and case studies to assess their capabilities. Understanding the scope, technology stack, and specific skills needed will assist individuals in narrowing their options and finding a company with the right expertise.
While outsourcing to countries like India offers cost advantages, consider other factors such as time zone differences, cultural compatibility, and communication styles. Being informed earlier about those differences will help one make informed decisions. However, experts say that 30-40% of technology jobs lost globally may be outsourced to India, making it a significant hub for skilled web design professionals. Tools like Google Hangouts and Zoom can facilitate real-time communication despite time zone differences, ensuring smooth collaboration.
Technical Expertise and Experience
It is also important to ensure that the outsourcing partner has the technical expertise required for the project. This includes proficiency in various design tools, coding languages like, Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, SQL, etc., and an understanding of the latest web design trends.
Crafting an Effective RFP
Moreover, a well-crafted Request for Proposal (RFP) is crucial for finding the right outsourcing partner. The RFP should include detailed project requirements, timelines, budget constraints, and evaluation criteria.
One can distribute the RFP to a selected list of potential partners and allow sufficient time for them to respond. They can later evaluate the responses based on predefined criteria to shortlist the most suitable candidates.
Establishing Clear Communication Channels
A lack of communication can result in a lack of trust among the client and outsourcing partner due to a lack of transparency and also delay the processes. Therefore it is necessary to utilize communication tools such as Slack, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams to maintain regular contact with the outsourcing team. These tools help bridge the geographical gap and ensure smooth collaboration. Establish a regular reporting schedule to track progress. Weekly or bi-weekly meetings can help address any issues promptly and keep the project on track.
Managing the Outsourced Project
Adopt a project management framework such as Hive to manage the outsourced project effectively. These methodologies emphasize iterative development, which can lead to higher quality outcomes.
Use project management tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira to monitor progress. These tools provide transparency and help in tracking tasks, milestones, and deadlines. Create a structured process for handling revisions and feedback. This ensures that the final product aligns with expectations and meets the established objectives. This, in turn, will help build trust between the client and the outsourcing partner.
Quality Assurance and Testing
The goal of functional testing is to ensure that the website runs correctly and is in compliance with the specifications. As per QA Touch, it is necessary to Implement rigorous quality assurance (QA) processes to ensure the website functions correctly across different browsers and devices. This includes functionality testing, usability testing, and performance testing. Conduct User Acceptance Testing (UAT) with a select group of users to gather feedback on the website’s functionality and user experience. This helps identify any final adjustments before the official launch.
Launching the Website
It is highly recommended to do some checks before the website is launched. Digital Hill suggests that, “Before launching, ensure all content is uploaded, and the website is fully optimized for SEO.” Perform a final check to ensure everything is in place. Monitor the website’s performance post-launch. Use analytics tools to track user behavior, load times, and any potential issues that need addressing.
Outsourcing web design is a strategic move that can offer significant advantages to mid-sized businesses in the USA. By leveraging cost-effective, high-quality talent from countries like India, companies can enhance their web presence while focusing on their core business activities. This article has provided a comprehensive roadmap for successfully outsourcing web design, from understanding business needs and choosing the right partner to managing the project and ensuring quality outcomes.
At Menal Partners, outsourcing services are structured to be accessible and hassle-free, making it easier for mid-sized businesses to achieve their web design goals without the typical overheads. Menal Partners is committed to delivering excellence and ensuring that the web design projects of businesses are a resounding success.