Don’t be fooled by “fast & easy” design tools
By: Grace Cole
June 2, 2016 | Reading Time: 2 mins
Last week Adobe launched new software called Spark, making it easier for non-designers to create social graphics, web stories, and animated videos with no digital media experience needed. Similar websites have popped up over the years, such as Canva, BeFunky, and DesignMantic, and they’re all really handy tools. But we thought it was about time to bring the other side of the story to the table and break down the common misconceptions of using these tools instead of hiring a professional designer.
No Design Experience Needed
As Steve Jobs once said, “To design something really well, you have to ‘get it’. It takes a passionate commitment to really thoroughly understand something.” It’s more than just making something pretty; it’s about how it works. You won’t find the same strategic attention to detail on an automated design website that a professional would provide. Designers play this game every day and know exactly how to use their knowledge and expertise to communicate an effective visual that ensures your company stands out from your competition and appeals to your target audience.
You get what you pay for
Like most things, it’s wiser to invest in a quality product upfront rather than upgrading later on and paying more money to do so. In the case of design templates, you will get what you pay for. Your visual brand deserves more than mediocrity! In the age of digital where trends are changing so quickly, you cannot afford to stand in the shadow of your competition. By investing in a graphic designer, you’ll have a trusted creative partner on your side to help you maintain a consistent look, brand your business in a unique way, and produce pieces that you can show off.
Saves Time
The to-do list of most entrepreneurs is usually pretty long and, let’s face it, most business owners do not have the time to complete DIY projects. Especially if you have limited design skills, this is something that is likely going to get pushed down the to-do list when priorities change. Hiring a designer will ensure your marketing projects are completed on time and opportunities are not missed. Not only are you sparing yourself a headache, but you’re allowing yourself to focus on what you do best.
Check out these design tools and see what they have to offer. But from where we’re standing on branding, the cons outweigh the pros… so why not leave it to one?