Owner of Web Deisgn outfit Armadillo Studios, Creator of the yycApps and AlbertaTweets projects, iPhone App investor. I love to give advice on starting up your own design agency or iPhone app company. I also hate Helevetica.
I've spent the past 6 years freelancing under the Armadillo Studios moniker. From starting from scratch, to balancing work/life or working with clients, I've done it all when it comes to running your own business. I was also apart of the successful 2010 SXSW session "Leave Your Job, Start an Agency" so I enjoy sharing my expertise and knowledge.
I've been working with WordPress as a web framework/content management system since 2006. If you have questions regarding the power of WordPress for client projects or your own business goals.
I created the yycapps.com project, which is a Calgary based site dedicated to helping connect and promote local iPhone app developers. As an app developer myself, I have experience with app development community on a number of levels from start-ups to side hobbies to agencies adding app development to their portfolio. I can provide the dos and donts of starting an app company from the beginning.
I would suggest looking within your local Tech community. Search out various tech centric events through Meetup.com or look for something like a DemoCamp (or a Camp like event). Those events will attract people within the tech community that are interested in either new ideas, concepts or potentially becoming a cofounder. You could also look to see if your city has a Start-up Weekend. If you're comfortable, presenting your concept or through an event like that to see if you can match up with a passionate tech cofounder.
If money and security is the sole object, then it may more sense to take ad agency gig. But if freedom and a bigger stake in the overall direction and of company is a priority then staying the course as a freelancer may make more sense.
To me there are other factors that would come into play more than money. I imagine a Freelancer growing a business (300K) is probably spending much of their free time focused on a business and not much free time to enjoy life. There is also the instability of running a growing business which would play into it as a factor. Working for an Ad Agency might reduce those stressed, but at a 100K salary I imagine there will be other work/life balances and requests.
I don't think there is an easy answer and it all depends on the personal and professional goals of the individual. I know that's not a concrete answer, but hopefully it does help.
Connor's turned a bad idea into a great one. Another awesome Clarity call!
Connor is an excellent designer specializing in web design techniques. He is my go to man for web design collaboration and other related projects.
If you want a web site that will fit in with your communication goals or need someone to provide you with corporate branding, Connor Turner should be on your list.
