Commoditization of Web Design Looming?
Thursday, January 31st, 2008I know my web designer readers would not like to hear this, but I believe it’s possible for a good # of potential design jobs to become commodities. I’m talking about a design that would normally fetch $1,500 to $2,000 — now costing around $300.
First, check out this list of 39+ Photoshop (PSD) to XHTML/CSS Services.
I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical that a company could deliver quality XHTML+CSS for $99 within a few days. Recently I paid $150 (for the rush service) to XHTML Magic and received clean, valid, cross-browser XHTML+CSS+images back within 24 hours.
That’s just one example, but judging from the list, this appears to be a huge cottage industry.
Next Step in Design Commoditization
Now that PSD -> XHTML/CSS has become commoditized, the next step is for the actual PSD creation to become as “commodity”-like as possible.
This is the workflow I envision:
1. Potential client signs up at a site (PSDs ‘R’ Us), lists their Top 5 favorite designs. (i.e. in their niche or that have a similar look & feel to what they are going for)
2. Client submits add’l info on why they like these sites. Is it the Arial Web 2.0 font look? Or just the color blue?
3. PSDs ‘R’ Us dashes off some rudimentary mockups. Let’s say 3, but maybe a few of them are the same only with slightly different color schemes. (so 5-7 total)
4. Client responds back with feedback. Maybe there is 1 clear winner, with a few modifications needed. Either way, they are getting something at least somewhat like one of the mockups. Perhaps a disengagement fee could be paid here if they’re not satisfied. (20% of total to be let off the hook)
5. PSDs ‘R’ Us moves on to the next phase, delivering the near-final mockup. This is all handled through a Web UI, with email notifications, etc.
6. After another round of feedback, PSDs ‘R’ Us delivers the final PSD mockup.
The unused ones, of course, can have the text/logos swapped out and be re-used PSDs ‘R’ Us with future clients.
PSDs to WordPress Themes
With PSDs in hand, clients are now only looking at an additional $100-200 for valid XHTML/CSS. I’m guessing there are also chop shops which take PSDs and give you a WP theme for $150 or so.
