How to Create a Website on a Budget
For years, creating a website seemed outside of my budget. The cost of securing a site and hiring a content developer was financially overwhelming. My small Teaching Assistant stipend was barely enough to cover rent and groceries — a website was out of the question. Or so I thought.
Website developers and tech-savvy folks aren’t the only ones who can build a website. My community of friends and professional network helped me create a website that highlights my achievements, research interests, and teaching experiences. A website that I love.
Here’s how I built my website
Do Your Homework:
I studied the websites of several friends who built their own websites with little or no help. Once I had an idea of the type of website I wanted, I asked my friends questions about how they created their websites, which sites they used and if they were satisfied with the site. One of my friends offered to help me set my website up, which was an incredible gift.
Support and Mutual Aid:
Because I believe in compensating Black women, femmes, and gender non-conforming folx, I offered sound healing in exchange. Perhaps you also have friends with skills, what can you offer them in exchange for their time and expertise? Find out if your skilled friend has any specific needs that you can fill for them, and do your best to offer your support.
Experiment and Play:
Once my friend created the structure of the website and walked me through some of the key features, I was off to a great start. I begin experimenting with content and design, and it felt more like play. I enjoyed creating the site more than I anticipated.
Test, Test and Test Again:
My next step was to test the website out. For this task, I went directly to my professional network because they held the type of job I am working to obtain. I trusted that their feedback would help me to build a website that was accessible and aligned with industry expectations.
Celebrate:
I plan to develop the website a little more, but for now, I am basking in this afterglow of actualizing a long term goal of mines.
Resourcefulness and supportive community were essential in me reaching my goal of building and maintaining a clean, simple, and purposeful website, on a budget.
In fact, resourcefulness and supportive community can help you achieve just about any goal that feels insurmountable.
Here’s to our collective wellness.
