BeesNest Web Design🚢
2y ago
Hi, I'm Eric, lead developer for BeesNest Web Design! My story is a little unorthodox on how I ended up in Web Development and Design. My former career was in the Hospitality industry as The Corporate Social Director at a major family resort. Eventually, I wanted to make games and programs for the guest and staff alike, leading me to being a self taught web developer.
Skills are the most important part of the web development game - but the equipment you use can greatly increase the implementation of those skills.
Here are the 3 pieces of equipment I found were super helpful in getting my freelance business up and running.
A GOOD Laptop Computer
I'm going to teach you how to save $500.
"BestBuy has an HP[insert model name here] in the Sunday sales paper for only $500!" - NO! Those computers you see are totally fine for your "everyday users", but just won't cut it if you want to do web development. I highly recommend going for quality here because it will save a ton time, frustration, and money in the long run.
If your budget is tight, check out certified refurbished computers - you get a great machine, for half the price (this is the rig I've been using for 3 years and it's been great)!
Wireless Keyboard & Mouse
Your office becomes the entire world when you freelance - your house, a coffee shop, or even your car!
Let's save you the frustration (and some neck pain) now by getting a wireless keyboard and mouse. Although that computer I mentioned earlier is wonderful, the trackpad it has will never recreate the experience of an actual mouse. As you develop your websites and apps, you will be moving a ton of windows around, dragging and dropping files and photos like a beast, and typing thousands of lines of code.
It's best to be prepared for this and purchase a decent wireless keyboard and mouse (like this one) to increase your productivity and avoid the chiropractor.
Laptop Bag
What good is a laptop if you don't take advantage of it's mobility?
9 times out of 10, clients will not be coming to you - you will be going to them, which means you need to pack up your entire office and take it with you. In recent years, laptop backpacks have been all of the rage but I cannot stand them - too many zippers and hidden compartments leading to endless "backpack burrowing" which is just not the the look I want when meeting a client. Instead, I opt for a nice canvas messenger bag (leather is way too expensive) that can easily hold my laptop, wireless keyboard with mouse, office supplies, and daily planner.
Using this style of bag has led me to being better organized, more prepared, and overall more productive in my freelance career.