Freelancers vs. Agencies: How Web Design Workflow Differs in Each

1. Project Intake and Planning

Freelancers:

Freelancers handle every part of the website design workflow themselves. The process usually starts with a direct conversation with the client to understand their goals, brand identity, and functional needs. Some freelancers may send a questionnaire, while others prefer a more informal discussion.

Since they work solo, freelancers have full control over their schedules and project intake. This means they can adjust deadlines based on availability but may have limits on how many projects they can handle at once.

Agencies:

Agencies follow a more structured approach. The client typically goes through an onboarding process with a project manager who gathers all necessary details. Meetings, strategy sessions, and detailed proposals are common steps in an agency-led web designer workflow.

Since multiple people are involved, agencies divide tasks among designers, developers, and content specialists, including those who work with external writing services like DoMyEssay to get your research paper written more efficiently, ensuring work progresses in a systematic way. However, this structure can sometimes lead to slower turnaround times compared to freelancers.

2. Design and Prototyping

Freelancers:

A freelance web designer’s workflow varies depending on their experience and tools. Some start with wireframes and mockups, while others go straight into design. Many use Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch to create prototypes that allow clients to see how the site will look before development begins.

Since freelancers don’t have a large team to consult, revisions are typically handled quickly. However, their creative process is often shaped by their personal style and expertise, which means clients need to choose a freelancer whose portfolio aligns with their vision.

Agencies:

With agencies, the web design workflow is more structured. A UX/UI designer creates wireframes first, followed by high-fidelity mockups. These designs are then reviewed internally before being presented to the client.

Revisions go through multiple rounds, with feedback from different departments, which can help ensure a more polished final design. However, this also means changes can take longer to implement compared to working directly with a freelancer.

3. Development and Coding

Freelancers:

Many freelance designers also handle development, coding the website themselves or using website builders like Webflow or WordPress. If custom coding is required, freelancers with coding expertise may use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, while others outsource the technical work to developers.

Because they work alone, freelancers must balance design, coding, and testing, which can be time-consuming. However, they often provide a more hands-on experience, making adjustments quickly without layers of approvals.

Agencies:

Agencies typically have dedicated developers who take the approved design and turn it into a fully functional website. A structured workflow web design process ensures developers follow best practices, test compatibility, and optimize performance.

Since multiple people are involved, clients usually don’t communicate directly with developers. Instead, feedback goes through the project manager, which can slow down the process but ensures accountability and quality control.

4. Revisions and Client Feedback

Freelancers:

Freelancers tend to have a more flexible revision process. Clients can usually request design tweaks directly, and adjustments are made quickly. However, freelancers often limit the number of revisions to avoid excessive back-and-forth that could delay project completion.

Agencies:

Agencies follow a more formal revision process. Feedback is collected at different stages, with structured revision rounds. Changes are carefully reviewed to ensure they align with branding and technical guidelines.

This structured approach can be beneficial for businesses needing a more detailed review process, but it may also mean that minor revisions take longer than they would with a freelancer.

5. Final Delivery and Maintenance

Freelancers:

Freelancers typically deliver completed websites with a handover document or a brief training session on how to manage the site. Some may offer ongoing maintenance, while others move on once the project is finished.

Since freelancers work independently, long-term support depends on availability. If they’re busy with other projects, future updates may take longer.

Agencies:

Agencies often provide long-term support plans, offering maintenance packages and technical assistance. Because they have multiple team members, agencies can ensure website updates, security patches, and performance optimizations are handled efficiently.