The 7 Key Members of a Web Design Agency
Running a web design business looks different for everyone. Some web designers are energized by flying solo, while others are curious about what growth could look like with the right support. Whether you're a proud solopreneur or starting to think about growing your web design team, this guide highlights the most common team members that successful web design agencies employ to run successful, sustainable businesses.
1. Web designer
The web designer is the architect of the team who translates client goals into intuitive, beautiful layouts. On Squarespace, this means putting knowledge of user experience (UX), information architecture (IA), and design principles into practice. The web designer may also be tasked with customizing design settings and applying custom CSS and animations when needed.
2. Web developer
Squarespace doesn’t require coding, but as your web design agency grows, it may be realistic to bring in a developer for more advanced functionality or custom requests. Many web designers are comfortable handling basic CSS and light coding, but partnering with a developer gives them space to focus on visual design and user experience. Developers can manage the more technical aspects of a site—like custom features, integrations, or structural adjustments—helping elevate the overall quality of the project.
3. Assistant
Whether in person or virtual, an assistant can be critical in offloading workloads. This may include uploading blogs, managing schedules, answering emails and inquiries from clients, and organizing files. Hiring an assistant can clear space for your creative and client work, and is often a great place to start when expanding your web design team.
4. Graphic designer
Solopreneurs often wear the hats of website designer and graphic designer. For web designers looking to scale, however, it can be helpful to separate the responsibilities. While a web designer focuses on building an impactful site, a graphic designer specializes in developing branded visuals, icons, or image treatments. If you’re already helping clients establish their brand identity, a graphic designer can put the branding into practice.
5. SEO specialist
Squarespace has strong native SEO features, and a specialist can take them even further. With an ever-changing SEO landscape, it can be beneficial to have someone dedicated to monitoring trends and implementing best practices. An SEO specialist focuses on developing a keyword strategy, writing metadata, and reporting on analytics. If you work with clients who have ambitious growth goals or operating in competitive industries, it’s worth adding an SEO professional to your team.
6. Copywriter
Good copy turns a beautiful site into one that converts. If writing isn’t your strong suit or it takes up too much time, hiring a copywriter can streamline projects and boost results. This team member can be particularly useful if you find it difficult to wrangle content from clients. You can also lean on a copywriter to develop content for your agency, such as writing blog posts or email campaigns.
7. Project manager
If you’re working on multi-service or large projects, a project manager can keep everything running smoothly. A project manager’s role entails handling timelines, client communications, and keeping everyone on the same page. If you’re still in the process of scaling your web design agency, it may even make sense to hire a part-time project manager who can free up hours of admin work each week.
Start small, grow smart
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to running a web design business. Whether you’re happy to be a solopreneur or have your sights set on growing a full agency, these tips are here to help you think strategically about how to support your clients—and yourself—more effectively. You don’t need a big team to run a streamlined, successful business, but knowing where you could use support is key.
Ready to scale your web design agency? Check out our guide to get started. And if you’re not quite ready to take the leap, read our tips for collaborating on web design projects.
Want more?
Check out Squarespace Circle, Squarespace’s program for professional designers and web design agencies. Along with exclusive content, discounts, and other perks, Circle brings professionals together from across the globe to exchange advice while connecting with new clients and collaborators.
