Creativity, Chess, and Web Design: Strategy Is My Secret Weapon

When people ask me how I became one of the top-rated Wix web designers in Atlanta, they’re often surprised by my answer: chess. Yes, chess—the ancient game of strategy and foresight. I’ve played it since I was a kid, and over the years, I’ve come to realize that it’s more than just a hobby. It’s a mindset. And it’s helped shape how I build websites, run my business, and solve problems creatively.

At its core, chess is about looking ahead. Every move affects what happens three, four, or ten moves down the board. That’s exactly how I approach web design. I don’t just think about what a site will look like today—I think about how it will grow, scale, and adapt to a client’s future needs. Whether it’s adding eCommerce down the road or preparing a nonprofit for grant visibility, I build with foresight.

Chess also teaches you to see patterns. A great player notices opportunities that others miss. In web design, this means understanding how user behavior flows through a site, how calls to action influence engagement, and how SEO structure drives organic traffic. These are not just design decisions—they’re strategic ones.

Creative Strategy in Action: Marketing Meets Innovation

Let’s talk about creative problem-solving. I’ve spent years working in marketing, retail, and media. At Blockbuster, UAV Corporation, and MovieStop, I learned how to analyze data, test tactics, and move quickly when something wasn’t working. At Boardworks Outdoor Advertising, I developed a first-of-its-kind live-tweeting billboard system in Atlanta. Why? Because we needed to break through the noise and reach people differently. That’s strategy. That’s chess.

When I sit down to build a website, I see the entire board. The client’s brand, their goals, their challenges—each element is a piece. And just like in chess, you need more than instinct. You need a plan. That’s why my clients trust me not just as a designer, but as a strategic partner.

Designing Beyond the Visual: Educating Clients to Think Ahead

This mindset is especially powerful for clients who don’t yet see the full picture of their online presence. Maybe they’re focused on colors and fonts. That’s important—but I’m also looking at site architecture, mobile responsiveness, bounce rates, and how to drive calls, clicks, or conversions. I help clients think several moves ahead, often before they realize what’s needed.

Wix gives me the flexibility to execute that vision. It’s intuitive, powerful, and scalable—just like a great strategy. I can test ideas, pivot quickly, and ensure that clients can take over their sites with confidence. This empowers them to act, not react.

Strategy also means knowing when to simplify. In chess, sometimes the best move is to eliminate complexity. Same in web design. Some of the best sites I’ve built are the most straightforward—clean, clear, and fast. Because clarity wins. Because simplicity converts. Because attention spans are short, and competition is everywhere.

What ties it all together is the philosophy that I bring to every project: You don’t win by chance. You win with vision. With preparation. With bold creative moves grounded in logic. And yes—with strategy.

Ready to work with a Web Designer Atlanta businesses trust to think ahead? Let’s create a site that plays to win.

Steve Crayne

Starting Gate Marketing

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you ensure my website reflects my brand?

We take a collaborative approach to design. By understanding your story, style preferences, and target audience, we create a website that aligns with your brand identity—visually, emotionally, and strategically.

How long does it take to design and launch a website?

Project timelines vary based on complexity, but most websites are designed and launched within a few weeks. We’ll outline a clear project schedule during your consultation to ensure your site is delivered on time.

What kind of results can a professionally designed website deliver?

A well-designed website can help you:

• Attract more ideal customers

• Build brand credibility and trust

• Increase conversions and sales

• Grow your online presence

• Support long-term business goals

How can I get started building my website?

To start your project with a top-rated Atlanta web design company s, simply reach out here. We’ll discuss your goals and show you how a well-designed website can elevate your brand and drive meaningful results.