DIY vs. Professional Design: Navigating Options for Custom Trade Show Exhibits

The decision to invest in a custom trade show exhibit is a strategic move that can significantly impact your brand’s visibility and success at events. As businesses weigh their options, one crucial consideration is whether to embark on a do-it-yourself (DIY) design approach or enlist the expertise of professional trade show booth designers. 

Let’s explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision for your custom trade show exhibit. 

DIY Design: Embracing Creativity and Cost Control

• Pros:

• • • Cost-Effective: DIY design can be more budget-friendly, especially for small businesses or those looking to allocate resources differently.
    • Hands-On Creativity: When you design your own exhibit, you have full creative control over the process. This allows you to personalize every aspect of the exhibit to align with your brand vision.
    • Flexibility: DIY projects can be adapted and modified easily as your business evolves.

• Cons:

• • Skill and Expertise: Designing an effective trade show exhibit requires expertise in booth layout, traffic flow and visual communication. DIYers often lack these skills and expertise. 
  • Time-Consuming: The learning curve for design tools and the actual creation process can be time-intensive, potentially impacting other essential business activities.
  • Quality Assurance: Ensuring a professional and polished look may be challenging without design experience.

Professional Design: Expertise for Impactful Results

• Pros:

• • • Professional Aesthetics: Exhibit design professionals bring a refined aesthetic sense, ensuring a polished and visually appealing exhibit.
    • Efficiency: Professionals have the expertise to streamline the design process, saving time and allowing businesses to focus on core activities.
    • Strategic Layout: Designers understand the psychology of booth layouts, optimizing traffic flow and enhancing attendee engagement.

• Cons:

• • Higher Costs: Professional design services typically come with a cost, which may be a significant factor if your business has strict budget constraints.
  • Less Personalization: While designers strive for brand alignment, you might have less hands-on control over every detail compared to a DIY approach. However, if you work with the right exhibit company, this shouldn’t be an issue! 
  • Dependency on Timelines: Working with professionals may involve adhering to a set timeline, which may not align with urgent needs. If you need something quick, ask about modular or rental exhibits! 

Making the Decision: Key Considerations

• Budget Constraints: Consider your budget and weigh the potential costs of professional design against the savings of a DIY approach.
• Design Expertise: Assess your team’s design capabilities and whether they can create a professional-looking exhibit that effectively communicates your brand message.
• Time Commitment: Evaluate the time available for design and construction. DIY projects may be time-consuming, potentially impacting other business operations.
• Exhibit Complexity: The complexity of your exhibit design plays a role. Elaborate and interactive exhibits may benefit more from professional expertise.
• Long-Term Goals: Consider the long-term goals of your business. A professionally designed exhibit may provide a more scalable and sustainable solution for future events.

Professional Exhibit Design that Meets Your Budget 

The choice between DIY and professional design for custom trade show exhibits ultimately depends on your specific business needs, resources and goals. While a DIY approach offers cost savings and creative control, professional design brings expertise and efficiency to ensure a polished and impactful exhibit. 

IGE Group has trade show exhibit solutions for every budget. Contact us today to discuss your vision and the many ways that we can help. Whether you choose to roll up your sleeves or enlist our help, the goal is to create a custom trade show exhibit that effectively represents your brand and captivates your target audience.