With the rise of user-friendly online graphic editors like Canva, Adobe Express, and Figma, many business owners wonder: should I use these tools myself or hire a professional designer?
Both online editors and professional designers have their advantages and disadvantages. Here's a comprehensive comparison to help you decide which option is right for your needs.
Online Graphic Editors
Online graphic editors are web-based tools that allow you to create designs without needing specialized software or design skills.
Popular Online Design Tools
- Canva: User-friendly with extensive template library
- Adobe Express: Professional tools with simplified interface
- Figma: Collaborative design platform
- Crello (now VistaCreate): Animation and video capabilities
- PicMonkey: Photo editing and design combined
Pros of Online Graphic Editors
- Accessibility: You can use them from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Cost-effective: They are typically free or offer affordable pricing models.
- User-friendly: They have intuitive interfaces that are easy to learn and use.
- Quick turnaround: You can create designs relatively quickly without needing to hire a professional.
- Template variety: Thousands of pre-made templates for different industries and purposes
- Stock resources: Built-in access to photos, icons, and graphics
Cons of Online Graphic Editors
- Limited customization: You may not have the same level of control over design elements as with professional tools.
- Design quality: The designs may not meet the same level of professional quality as those created by experienced designers.
- Time-consuming: Learning to use the tools effectively can take time.
- Dependent on templates: You may need to rely on pre-made templates, which may not fully meet your design needs.
- Brand consistency challenges: Difficult to maintain consistent brand identity across materials
- Limited strategic thinking: Tools don't provide strategic design guidance
Professional Designers
Professional designers are skilled artists who use specialized software and tools to create high-quality designs tailored to your specific needs.
Types of Professional Design Services
- Freelance designers: Independent professionals for specific projects
- Design agencies: Full-service teams with diverse expertise
- Subscription services: Ongoing design support with unlimited revisions
- In-house designers: Full-time employees dedicated to your brand
Pros of Professional Designers
- Customization: They can create designs that are fully customized to your specifications.
- Design quality: Professional designers produce high-quality designs that meet your expectations.
- Strategic thinking: They understand how to use design to achieve your business goals.
- Consistency: They ensure that all your design elements align with your brand's overall message and aesthetic.
- Industry expertise: Understanding of design trends, color psychology, and typography
- Problem-solving: Ability to address complex design challenges
- Brand development: Can create comprehensive brand identity systems
Cons of Professional Designers
- Higher cost: Professional designers typically charge more than online editors.
- Longer timelines: Complex projects may take longer to complete with professional designers.
- Less control: You may have less control over the design process compared to using online editors.
- Communication requirements: Need to clearly communicate vision and provide feedback
- Availability: May have waiting lists or scheduling constraints
When to Use Online Graphic Editors
Online editors work best for:
- Simple social media posts: Quick social media graphics and announcements
- Internal documents: Presentations, reports, and internal communications
- Quick promotional materials: Basic flyers or simple advertisements
- Personal projects: Non-commercial designs and personal branding
- Temporary solutions: Placeholder designs while developing professional materials
- Budget constraints: When professional design isn't financially feasible
When to Hire Professional Designers
Professional designers are essential for:
- Logo design: Your brand's most important visual element
- Brand identity systems: Comprehensive visual identity development
- Website design: User experience and conversion optimization
- Print materials: Brochures, packaging, and high-quality print work
- Marketing campaigns: Strategic marketing materials that drive results
- Complex projects: Multi-faceted campaigns requiring strategic thinking
- Brand consistency: Maintaining cohesive visual identity across all touchpoints
The Hybrid Approach
Many successful businesses use both approaches strategically:
- Professional foundation: Hire designers for core brand elements and templates
- DIY execution: Use online tools for day-to-day social media and simple materials
- Template systems: Have professionals create branded templates for internal use
- Ongoing support: Use subscription design services for professional guidance and complex projects
Cost Comparison
Understanding the true cost of each approach:
Online Editors
- Monthly subscriptions: $10-$30/month
- Time investment: 2-5 hours per design
- Learning curve: 10-20 hours initially
- Hidden costs: Premium elements, stock photos
Professional Designers
- Project-based: $500-$5,000+ per project
- Hourly rates: $50-$150+ per hour
- Subscription services: $1,000-$3,000+ per month
- Value: Professional quality, strategic thinking, brand consistency
Quality and Brand Impact
The choice between DIY and professional design significantly impacts:
- Brand perception: Professional design builds trust and credibility
- Marketing effectiveness: Strategic design improves conversion rates
- Competitive advantage: Unique, professional branding sets you apart
- Long-term value: Quality design assets serve your business for years
Making the Right Decision
Consider these factors when choosing your approach:
- Budget: What can you realistically invest in design?
- Timeline: How quickly do you need results?
- Quality requirements: What level of professionalism do you need?
- Brand importance: How critical is design to your business success?
- Volume of work: How much design work do you need regularly?
- Strategic needs: Do you need design strategy or just execution?
The Bottom Line
Both online graphic editors and professional designers have their place in modern business. The key is understanding when to use each approach and how they can work together to support your brand goals.
For businesses serious about building a strong brand presence, the most effective approach often combines both: professional designers for strategic brand development and important materials, with online tools for quick, everyday needs.
At Dsigner, we understand that every business has different needs and budgets. Our unlimited design service provides professional design expertise when you need it, while also helping you develop systems and templates for your internal use.
Ready to elevate your brand with professional design? Explore our design services or contact our team to discuss how we can help you achieve your design goals efficiently and effectively.