When budgets are tight, the temptation to manage your own online presence is sometimes too strong to resist. There's a myriad of companies nowadays offering free online services and platforms for entrepreneurs hoping to cut out the cost of outsourcing tasks such as creating a website and digital marketing.
In a YouGov survey of 500 small businesses, 39% created their own websites and 58% were willing to use a DIY website or blog to promote their business.
In a Guardian blog, David Lenehan claimed starting an online business yourself needn't be expensive.
He said: "There is a myth that suggests trading online is expensive and that you really need to employ an agency to build and run a custom website. The reality is that you can build a successful online business from as little as £20 per month. I did."
But is this DIY approach to boosting a small firm's online presence a good idea? Or should it be left to the professionals? What online options are there for startups on a budget? Tell us your thoughts in the comment thread below.
Sign up to become a member of the Guardian Small Business Network here for more advice, insight and best practice direct to your inbox.
