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Pros and Cons of Outsourcing Web Design to the Philippines

In today’s highly competitive business landscape, having a website that stands out is crucial for any business to succeed.

However, web design can be a complex and time-consuming task, requiring specialized skills and knowledge.

One way to address this challenge is by outsourcing web design to countries like the Philippines, where you can benefit from lower costs and a highly skilled workforce.

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of outsourcing web design to the Philippines, how to find a reliable web design agency and things to consider when outsourcing.

What’s Web Design Outsourcing?

Before jumping to the topic of pros & cons of web design outsourcing to the Philippines, let’s look at “outsourcing” in general.

Defining Web Design Outsourcing

Web design outsourcing is the practice of hiring external service providers to handle all aspects of creating and managing a website.

This partnership can encompass a wide range of services, from the layout design to content creation and backend development. In some cases, it can be described as “web development outsourcing,” depending on its significance.

It allows businesses to tap into global talent, foster innovation, and optimize costs while focusing on their core operations.

Process of Web Design Outsourcing

The outsourcing process typically begins with identifying the project’s scope, followed by selecting the right agency, and then moving into the development phase.

It involves collaboration, regular updates, and revisions to align the final product with the client’s vision and objectives.

Key Players in Web Design Outsourcing

At the heart of web design outsourcing are the web designers, developers, project managers, and quality assurance specialists.

These professionals work in unison to turn conceptual ideas into functional, user-friendly websites.

In sum, actually, there are no significant differences in terms of the process and players; the only difference is where the production is based.

Now that we’ve got to know the general information about outsourcing, let’s dive into the pros and cons.

Pros and Cons of Outsourcing Web Design to the Philippines

Outsourcing web design to the Philippines can have both pros and cons. Here is a list for quick glance.

PROS CONS
  • Cost-Effectiveness
  • Skilled Workforce
  • Governmental Support & Strong IT-BPM Presence
  • Strong English Proficiency
  • Cultural Compatibility
  • Strategic Cost Savings & Enhanced Operational Efficiency
  • Communication Challenges
  • Time Zone Difference
  • Maintaining Quality Standards
  • Building Long-term Partnerships
  • Legal & Compliance Concern

 

Now, let’s look each of the key advantages and disadvantages in more details.

Pros of Outsourcing Web Design to the Philippines

Cost-effectiveness

Outsourcing web design to the Philippines can be significantly cheaper than hiring a local agency or freelancer. The cost of living in the Philippines is lower than in most developed countries, resulting in lower labor costs.

Skilled workforce

The Philippines is known for its highly skilled workforce, especially in the areas of web design, development, and digital marketing. You could expect that Filipino web designers and developers will have similar skill sets as those in your country.

Many Filipino professionals have years of experience working with international clients and are up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies.

Governmental support & Strong IT-BPO market presence

The Philippine as country, has been know as the “world’s call center capital” by revenue and number of workers.

The government has recognized the potential of the IT-BPO sector and has provided considerable support, positioning the country as a strong contender in the global market.

This government backing ensures a stable environment for outsourcing and a commitment to growing this vital economic segment.

High English Proficiency & Cultural Compatibility

Communication is key in any project, and the Philippines excels in this regard due to its high English proficiency and cultural affinity with the West.

According to the EF Education First Group, it ranks 20th out of 113 countries. This reduces barriers and misunderstandings, facilitating smoother project management and execution.

In addition, the Philippines is known for its friendly and hospitable culture, making it easier for businesses to communicate and work with Filipino professionals.

Strategic Cost Savings & Enhanced Operational Efficiency

Outsourcing web design to the Philippines not only leads to direct cost savings but also enhances operational efficiency.

Companies can focus on their core business areas with the assurance that their web design needs are being professionally managed.

Cons of Outsourcing Web Design to the Philippines

Communication challenges

The language barrier can be a challenge when working with professionals from non-English speaking countries like the Philippines.

However, many Filipino professionals are fluent in English, making communication easier.

Time zone difference

The time zone difference between the Philippines and other countries can make it difficult to communicate and collaborate in real time.

However, this can be overcome by establishing a regular schedule and using communication tools like video conferencing.

Maintaining Quality Standards

While the cost savings are significant, there is always a concern about maintaining high-quality standards. It requires diligent selection of partners and clear communication of expectations.

Building Long-term Partnerships

Establishing a long-term partnership with an overseas agency can come with its initial set of challenges, such as trust-building and alignment of business values and practices.

Legal and compliance concerns

Businesses outsourcing to the Philippines must ensure that the agency they work with is compliant with relevant laws and regulations. This includes data protection and intellectual property rights.

How to find a reliable web design agency in the Philippines

Research and Reviews

The first step in finding a reliable web design agency is thorough research.

Search the keywords like “web design outsource Philippines”. Visit their website, and check what they offer in portfolios and read the client reviews. 

Platforms like Clutch.co and LinkedIn can also provide insights into the reputation and work history of potential agencies.

Assessing Portfolios and Case Studies

A portfolio is a window into the agency’s capability and style.

Evaluate their past projects and case studies to determine if they align with your vision and standards. Pay attention to the diversity of their work and the industries they’ve catered to.

Evaluating Communication and Support

Effective communication is crucial for the success of any outsourced project.

Before committing, assess the agency’s responsiveness, their approach to project management, and the support they offer during and after the project’s completion.

Let’s make it happen!

Outsourcing web design to the Philippines is a viable option for businesses looking to save costs and access a highly skilled workforce. Though it does come with its set of challenges, the pros often outweigh the cons.

As we have mentioned, it’s important to carefully consider its merits and challenges and to find a reliable agency that can deliver quality work on time. 

If you’re exploring the option of outsourcing your web design needs and want to learn more, feel free to contact us at Lookupgrade.