You Have Options. Here's Why We're Different.

When it comes to getting a website for your small business, you've got three main options: hire a big agency, do it yourself with a website builder, or work with a specialist like Groundwork Digital. Let's break down the differences honestly.

The Full Comparison

Feature Groundwork Digital Big Agencies DIY Platforms
Price Range $549 - $1,990+ $5,000 - $20,000+ $15-50/month (ongoing)
You Own Everything ✓ Yes Usually ✗ No (locked in)
Ongoing Costs None (optional updates) Often required Required monthly fee
Custom Design ✓ Fully custom ✓ Fully custom Template-based
Timeline 1-3 weeks 4-12 weeks Varies (DIY)
Direct Contact ✓ Yes (Connor) Account managers Support tickets
SEO Included ✓ Yes Sometimes extra Basic only
Mobile Responsive ✓ Always ✓ Always ✓ Usually
Free Hosting ✓ Yes (most sites) Extra cost Included (locked in)
Technical Knowledge Required ✗ None ✗ None Some required
Best For Tradies & small businesses Large companies Hobbyists, blogs

Let's Break It Down

Groundwork Digital vs. Big Agencies (Zeald, Webcoda, Firebrand)

Why Choose Groundwork Digital

  • Affordable pricing: $549 - $1,990+ vs $5,000 - $20,000+
  • Fast turnaround: 1-3 weeks vs 2-3 months
  • Direct contact: Work directly with Connor, not account managers
  • No bloat: We focus on what you actually need, not upselling
  • Clear pricing: No hidden fees or surprise invoices
  • You own everything: No lock-in contracts

When an Agency Might Be Better

  • You need a very large, complex site (50+ pages)
  • You require custom software development or advanced integrations
  • You have a large budget ($10,000+) and want extensive features
  • You need ongoing digital marketing campaigns managed for you

Bottom line: If you're a small business or tradie looking for a professional website without the agency price tag, Groundwork Digital is your best choice.

Groundwork Digital vs. DIY Platforms (Wix, Squarespace, Weebly)

Why Choose Groundwork Digital

  • Professional quality: Custom-coded, not templates
  • You own it: Not locked into monthly subscriptions forever
  • No time wasted: We do the work, you run your business
  • Better SEO: Proper optimization, not DIY guesswork
  • Faster loading: Clean code vs bloated builders
  • No branding: No "Made with Wix" badges
  • Long-term value: One payment vs years of monthly fees

Cost comparison: Wix/Squarespace at $30/month = $360/year = $1,800 over 5 years. Our Starter package is $1,249 one-time. You save money AND own it outright.

When DIY Might Work

  • You're a hobbyist or blogger, not a business
  • You enjoy spending hours learning website builders
  • You're okay with template limitations
  • You don't mind monthly fees forever
  • Professional appearance isn't critical

Reality check: Most tradies and small business owners don't have time to learn website builders. Hours spent building a website = hours not earning money in your actual business. Let us handle it.

What Makes Us Different

🛠️

Built for Tradies

We understand your industry because we've worked in it. No jargon, no BS—just straightforward web design for hardworking businesses.

🇳🇿

100% NZ Owned

Locally owned and operated in Titirangi, Auckland. Supporting Kiwi small businesses. No outsourcing, all work done right here.

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One-Time Payment

Pay once, own forever. No mandatory monthly fees. Updates are optional and affordable—only pay when you need changes.

Fast Delivery

Most websites completed in 1-3 weeks. We know you're busy running your business—we move quickly without sacrificing quality.

🤝

Direct Communication

Work directly with Connor. No account managers, no getting passed around. You get direct contact and honest, clear communication.

Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront pricing. What you're quoted is what you pay. No hidden fees, no surprise invoices, no upselling.

Ready to Get Your Website Without the Hassle?

Let's build something great for your business. No BS, no overcharging, just professional web design for tradies and small businesses.

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Or view our packages and pricing