In 2022 I introduced a new service – Pay Monthly Websites. The main reason for introducing this new service is because even though I already offer affordable web design it was becoming apparent to me that for some start up businesses, even those costs were too high. So I had a few options:
- Lower my prices
This wasn’t really an option. With 14 years of knowledge and experience, my prices are already rock bottom and I didn’t want to have to compromise on the service I currently offer - Allow people to pay over a longer period of time
I did consider this and if I charged more, then this is something I would have definitely thought more about. However, it can be risky and I do know of developers who have gone out of business/taken a huge financial hit because 6 or 9 months into a 24 or 36 month payment plan the client has stopped paying. - Offer monthly payments in a way that won’t put me out of business
This seemed like the perfect solution, but how to go about it? Pre-made website templates are the solution. Usually, my websites are designed from scratch and the website is designed around the content. I always start with literally a blank site and everything is created and designed to fit the client’s content style and business. By offering pre-designed templates it allows me to build the sites must faster and therefore offer the sites on a pay monthly basis.
How do Pay Monthly Websites Work?
It’s fairly straightforward.
- First, choose a pre-designed website template that you like. If you’re not sure and need suggestions, don’t hesitate to ask. Don’t worry if the colours and fonts aren’t to your liking because I will be changing those for you to suit your own brand and business.
- Each website template already has what is called placeholder text. All you have to do is send me the text you want for your business instead. I have a simple system that allows you to do so.
- Each website template includes images. You can either send me photos to replace these, or I can source these for you.
- I update the website template with your new text, colours, fonts and images and your site is ready to go live! You have a brand new website, fully optimised for Google and you’ve only had an initial outlay of £35-£55!
- I send you training videos on how to update your website if you so wish.
What are the Pros and Cons of Pay Monthly Websites?
Pros
- It allow you to get a website from just £35! The majority of reputable designers charge at least 50% to start a project and so being able to get a site with such a small outlay is amazing
- Some clients struggle with writing the copy (text) for their site. The website templates have placeholder text in place already. This is perfect for some clients as you can see exactly what copy you need to write for where. It provides a good guide.
- It’s perfect for side businesses and start ups. If you’re not really sure if your business is viable this is a great, low cost way to get started.
- It’s pretty risk free. You haven’t invested much money and there is no minimum contract and so it provides a great way to get started with little financial risk
- There is a large number of templates to choose from so there is something to suit any business
- It’s an extremely affordable way to get an ecommerce or membership site online
Cons
- The site isn’t bespoke
- The templates usually have around 5 or 6 pages, so you may need extra pages/sections which increases the price
- It is more suitable for start up businesses than those needing a redesign
- Some people struggle to picture what the template will look like with different colours and fonts and can’t visualise how the finished site might look
- In the long term, this is a more expensive option. However given that most WordPress designers charge £30+ a month just for hosting and maintenance anyway, then it’s still a very affordable option
If you have any questions about my pay monthly websites I’d love to hear from you, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Posted in Start Up Business, Web Design
