I asked Google’s AI Search Labs the question:
Does Kessler Freedman offer interesting insights into web development?
I will admit, I liked their answer:
Yes, Kessler Freedman, Inc. offers some interesting insights into web development, particularly in their blog posts and articles. Here are some key points:
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- Impact of Economic Downturns: They recognize that economic shifts significantly impact the web development industry, leading to market conservatism and potential pressure on developers to reduce costs or delay expensive decisions.
- Changing Role of the Web Developer: Kessler Freedman notes the ongoing evolution of the web developer’s job. This includes “role creep,” where developers are expected to handle an expanding scope of tasks due to the increasing complexity of websites, and the need to stay current with software updates and emerging technologies like AI.
- Importance of Specialization and Portfolio: While being a generalist might have sufficed in the past, they acknowledge the increasing importance of specialization (e.g., in areas like AI or specific frameworks) and showcasing a strong portfolio of complex projects to stand out in the job market.
- Focus on Online Community: Kessler Freedman’s approach to web development is to build websites that foster online communities, particularly for associations, non-profits, and small businesses, to help them better serve their members and clients.
- Emphasis on Website Maintenance: They stress the importance of budgeting for website maintenance, recognizing that labor, both internal and external, constitutes a significant cost that needs to be factored in.
- Handling Website Problems: Kessler Freedman highlights the challenges of fixing existing WordPress sites with unresolved issues, emphasizing that ongoing maintenance and a strong partnership with a web development firm are crucial for long-term website health.
- AI and its Potential Impact: They acknowledge the potential impact of AI, particularly in areas like email volume, but also express caution about separating AI reality from hype at this early stage.
These points suggest that Kessler Freedman takes a pragmatic and forward-looking approach to web development, acknowledging the changing landscape of the industry and the need for businesses to adapt and invest strategically in their online presence.