Tools I Use in My Web Design Business Every Day

Small Business

Feb 13

Elise is a Squarespace web designer & Circle member from Baltimore, MD.

If you are a small business owner, you can relate to using various platforms and tools to help create and maintain processes that streamline client or customer interactions. Identifying the appropriate tools specifically for your industry can help reduce errors and ensure that tasks are completed accurately.

As a website designer, my most important tool is the client portal or CRM (customer relationship management). Having a space where all client communication regarding the design project can exist in one central place that we can both access is extremely important to helping everyone stay organized.

It’s the seemingly small but huge details, like creating an organized process for clients to easily follow, that can lead to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Keep reading to find out which tools I use.

The Business Tools

CoordinateHQ

As an organized individual by nature, I prioritize efficiency and effective communication in managing client projects through CoordinateHQ. This platform allows me to keep track of all my current projects by keeping all client communication centralized within the portal for easy access and reference.

To begin, I share customized project templates created within the platform that streamline project initiation and ensure consistency across projects. Additionally, I’m able to set up task lists and deadlines to ensure the timely delivery of project milestones and collaborate with clients by sharing project updates and assigning tasks within the portal. Best of all, I can securely store important documents and files for each client.

Google Docs

I use Google Docs specifically for clients to submit their written website copy. Google Docs is a versatile tool that facilitates seamless collaboration between clients and content creators. Clients can easily input their website copy directly into the document, eliminating the need for separate email attachments or file uploads.

The comment feature in Google Docs enables clear and concise communication regarding specific sections of the written content. This real-time editing capability allows for instant feedback and revisions, streamlining the overall review process. By utilizing Google Docs, we’re able to keep track of changes, suggest edits, and ultimately ensure that the website copy meets the desired specifications.

Dropbox

Dropbox is a cloud storage service that allows users to store and share files online securely. Here, clients are able to submit all of their images, logos, and any other files they need me to add to their website. Once the clients submit their files, I carefully review each one to ensure they meet the necessary requirements for the website.

I organize the images, logos, and other files in a systematic manner to streamline the process of adding them to the website. Features and benefits of using Dropbox include easy file sharing, automatic syncing, file organization, file recovery, and security.

Loom

This is a free online recording tool that I use to create tutorials and short informational videos for clients. One of the key features of this recording tool is its user-friendly interface, making it easy for me to navigate and record my tutorials efficiently. Loom also offers a variety of editing options, allowing me to enhance the quality of my videos by adding captions, annotations, and background music.

Best of all, cloud storage is provided for all my recordings, ensuring that my files are securely stored and easily accessible from any device. This particular tool has significantly improved my workflow and productivity when creating tutorials and informational videos for my clients. This tool is a great time saver!

Canva

Canva has risen up as a formidable contender in the design world; although some may beg to differ, you can’t deny the platform's evolution. Even if you are unfamiliar with design platforms, you’ve most likely heard of Canva and seen a commercial or two while watching TV.

This tool has major usability. Offering a variety of templates and customization options to design, both novices and experts are able to gain a lot from the platform. I typically use this graphic design tool to create small icons like a favicon for a website’s browser tab. The simplicity of the tool saves me time and ensures a professional result for the website's branding.

Square

With Square, you can rest assured that your transactions are secure and compliant with industry standards, providing peace of mind for both you and your clients. I can easily set up various payment methods for my clients, including credit/debit cards and digital wallets, making it convenient for them to settle their bills. Automated payment reminders reduce the need for manual follow-ups and ensure timely payments.

Square also offers contract templates that you can customize to fit your specific needs, saving you time and effort in creating agreements from scratch. This feature has been a lifesaver in making sure that I cover my business legally. You can easily add e-signature fields to your contracts, allowing clients to sign digitally, streamlining the signing process, and eliminating the need for printing and scanning documents. They have also integrated with Quickbooks to streamline your accounting efforts even more if you choose.

Takeaway

Finding the right tools to help you run your business can ultimately set your business up for long-term success.