Alternatives

 

I know that my design style, process, and pricing may not be the right fit for everyone. To help you find the best solution, I’ve put together a list of other options that may better match your goals, budget, or preferred way of working. This helps you save time, use your resources wisely, and choose a service that truly supports your project needs.

  1. Traditional Design Agencies
    Agencies offer full-service teams with strategists, designers, researchers, and developers. This option is ideal for large-scale projects, brand overhauls, or clients who prefer a hands-off experience with dedicated project management.

  2. Budget or Entry-Level Freelancers
    Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer allow clients to hire designers at various skill levels and price points. This can be a good option for simple, low-risk projects or clients with a tight budget.

  3. Subscription-Based Design Services
    Companies like DesignJoy, ManyPixels, or Kimp offer monthly design subscriptions with unlimited requests. This works well for businesses that need ongoing design work and predictable pricing.

  4. In-House Designers or Consultants
    Hiring a part-time or full-time designer provides ongoing availability and close collaboration with your team. This option is ideal for organizations with continuous design needs or long-term product development.

  5. Design Studios or Specialist Boutiques
    Smaller studios focus on specific industries or design specialties such as brand identity, mobile apps, or SaaS products. They offer a balance between the personalized touch of freelancers and the resources of agencies.

  6. Template-Based Solutions
    For clients needing fast, affordable design, pre-made templates from platforms like Canva, Adobe Express, or Envato Elements can be customized with minimal effort.

  7. No-Code and Low-Code Tools
    Tools such as Webflow, Framer, Wix Studio, or Figma UI Kits allow clients to build or refine designs independently with minimal technical knowledge, sometimes eliminating the need for custom design work.

  8. Design Bootcamps and Student Designers
    Working with students from design programs or bootcamps can offer very budget-friendly work, often with fresh ideas and enthusiasm, though with less experience.

  9. Internal Team With External Advisors
    Some companies use internal designers but hire outside UX strategists, researchers, or art directors for occasional guidance. This hybrid approach gives teams access to professional leadership without hiring full-time experts.

  10. Crowdsourced Design Platforms
    Services like 99designs allow clients to run contests where multiple designers submit proposals, giving clients several creative options to choose from.