Why Websites Need Ongoing Collaboration

When businesses or charities approach me for a website, they often come with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. It’s not unusual for clients to be unsure about what they truly need or to have ideas that, while well-intentioned, may not align with their long-term goals. That’s where I come in—not just as a designer but as a guide.

The Reality of Websites

A successful website is never a "set it and forget it" solution. While it’s tempting to see a website as a one-off project that can be ticked off the to-do list, the truth is that the best websites are nurtured over time. They grow, adapt, and evolve, just like the organisations they represent.

Some clients come to me after being burned by past experiences—whether they’ve been mis-sold a service or handed a complicated content management system (CMS) that they were expected to manage themselves. While systems like WordPress have their place, I’ve found that many clients don’t actually need the complexity of a CMS. They might believe they’ll frequently update the site themselves, but in reality, this often leads to stagnation.

My Approach

Instead of handing over a CMS that might sit unused, I prefer to build bespoke websites and maintain an ongoing relationship with my clients. This allows me to make updates directly, ensuring the site remains dynamic, visually consistent, and aligned with the organisation’s goals.

By skipping the constraints of a generic CMS, I can craft unique designs that aren’t limited by templates. This approach also avoids the additional costs and time involved in training, licenses, and troubleshooting a CMS—money that can be better spent on improving the site or creating fresh content.

A Collaborative Journey

Building a website is only the beginning. The real success lies in collaboration: creating content, refining the design, and ensuring the site continues to serve its purpose effectively. I work closely with my clients, not just during the initial project but well into the future, acting as a partner who understands their needs and can help them adapt to change.

For those worried about technical jargon or making the "wrong" decisions, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Whether it’s brainstorming new ideas, helping with content, or simply explaining things in plain English, my goal is to make the process as straightforward and enjoyable as possible.

A Commitment to Long-Term Success

A website is an investment, not just in technology but in your organisation’s future. With the right care and attention, it can become one of your most powerful tools. I believe in building websites—and relationships—that last.

If you’re ready to start a website project or simply want to explore what’s possible, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s create something that doesn’t just meet your needs today but grows with you for years to come.