Trying to operate within a budget is one of the main challenges in business, whether you are an old hand feeling the pinch or a newly qualified freelancer.

A highly technical and creative field like web design requires tenacity to make it work and your approach to finances can lead you to sink or swim.

You really don’t always need the latest gadget or tool on the market; have faith in your ability, develop and improve your skills and maximise your resources to keep your business viable whilst minimising your outgoings.

Wigan web design have a few simple and practical ways to help you cut your costs a little without compromising your business integrity.

Software

After your computer, software is likely to be your highest expenditure. The growing number of small independent software developers mean that good quality products similar to the leading brands are available at very reasonable prices. Keep an eye out also for sources offering free software. Alternatively, if you need a few more features, you can find many lower cost applications for under £50; you’ll find these often perform comparably well to the leading brands.

Design Resources

Free resources are a penny-pinchers best friend. A wide range of illustrations, PSD files and the like that you may need to embellish a web page can be found online at no cost, from photos and logos to clip-art and ready-made icons.

Overheads

This one might seem obvious, but giving up a rented studio or office space and moving into a home office will save you a significant slice of your yearly expenditure. Not just on the rent, but in time and money spent commuting as well. You’ll also be able to deduct part of the cost of your mortgage or rent, as well as a share of the utility bills, from your tax return. Ditching a fixed landline in favour of a mobile phone will save money too.

Trade

Don’t pay others to do things you can do yourself. Easy-to-use accounting software makes it simple to look after your own accounts and tax returns. Consider doing your own marketing and content writing. If you can’t do something, then why not approach someone who can and offer to trade your services for theirs? As long as both services are of roughly equal value, then everybody is happy, and nobody has had to pay out.

Training

Furthering your knowledge can be very costly; check whether grants are available for any courses you want to do and look out for any free seminars or courses that may be helpful. Always keep an eye on Ebay or Amazon for second-hand copies of any books you may need rather than just buying new; and consider visiting your library or online forums for relevant resources.

Equipment

Finally, don’t buy anything without doing a little research into where you can find it at the best price. Visit consumer websites for vouchers and discount codes. When buying in person, ask for their best price before simply paying the ticket price without question. If you don’t ask, you don’t get, and it’s often worth a bit of cheek to secure a bargain! Look for office equipment or other supplies on Ebay, Freecycle, even charity shops and car boot sales.

nexusadmin

Bespoke Website Design

Established in 2010, Nexus Websites are a creative digital agency based in Wigan working with clients all over the UK. With a vast range of experience and a proven track record we have everything you need to take your business to the next level.