Let me be honest with you – as someone who’s been designing websites for over 16 years, I’ve seen plenty of trends come and go. But this whole “AI website builder” craze? It’s giving me serious pause, and here’s why.
Sure, AI promises the world: quick deployment, lower costs, and “intelligent” design. But as a designer who’s created countless successful websites for professional service firms and growing businesses, I’m seeing some serious hidden costs that nobody’s talking about.
The “Uncanny Valley” of Web Design
You know that weird feeling you get when something’s just… off? That’s what happens with AI-generated websites. They look polished on the surface, but something feels hollow. Your visitors might not be able to put their finger on it, but they’ll sense it – and bounce right off your page. This is exactly why I always emphasize UX-focused design for better ROI.
The Real Cost Behind Those “Affordable” AI Solutions
Let’s talk numbers (because who doesn’t love ROI?):
– Initial savings? Sure.
– Lost conversions? Absolutely.
– Brand disconnect? Guaranteed.
– Missed opportunities? Countless.
When I work with clients, whether they’re a fintech startup or an established law firm, I dive deep into understanding their business. AI can’t have a meaningful discovery call to understand your passion project. It can’t read the enthusiasm in your voice when you talk about your services. And it definitely can’t translate that energy into a website that converts visitors into loyal customers.
The Human Advantage
Here’s what you get with a human designer (aka, why my clients stick around):
– Strategic thinking that understands market nuances
– Intuitive user experiences based on real human behavior
– Design decisions backed by years of conversion optimization
– A website that actually feels like YOUR business
The Bottom Line
Yes, AI is cheaper upfront. Yes, it’s faster. But if you’re serious about your business’s online presence, remember this: Your website is often the first impression potential clients have of your business. Do you want that impression to feel like a chatbot, or like a warm welcome from a trusted professional?
I’ve seen businesses try the AI route and come back for a human redesign. Why? Because at the end of the day, successful websites aren’t just about looking pretty – they’re about creating lasting connections and driving real business growth.
Want to chat about creating a website that actually works for your business? Let’s schedule a discovery call and talk about your goals. No AI small talk, just real conversation about your business’s future online.