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How Derek's Agency Built an Organic Powerhouse
When Derek Entrekin lost his go-to content writer, projects stalled, costs ballooned, and client patience wore thin. Hiring replacements would have gutted profits—but skipping content wasn’t an option. So he built a system with Blaze that didn’t just replace a freelancer—it redefined how his agency delivered websites, turning content into a competitive advantage.
The Agency Profit Problem
When Edwin Marie Web Design's local content writer moved away, Derek faced the classic agency squeeze:
- $500-2,500 content costs per website
- Weeks of back-and-forth with writers
- Delayed project timelines
- Shrinking profit margins
- Frustrated clients waiting for content
"Content costs were eating a huge portion of our upfront revenue, Something had to change."
Building a Content System with Blaze
Instead of hiring expensive remote writers, Derek created a scalable content system:
- Content Generation Framework:
- Website analysis for authentic voice
- Service description compilation
- Staff bio creation
- Social media campaigns
- Online reference integration
- Process Optimization:
- Project timelines: Cut 15% (2-3 weeks saved)
- Content phase: 5 weeks → minutes
- Website pricing: $7,500 → $299/month
- Quality control: Built into the system
The Results: Numbers That Matter
The financial impact was immediate:
- Eliminated $500-2,500 costs per project for improved margins
- Reduced website pricing by 96%
- Expanded to new office to serve more customers
- Faster project completion means improved customer satisfaction
The Real Impact: Beyond Just Savings
The most powerful outcome wasn't just efficiency - it was transforming client relationships:
"One manufacturing client told us 'We only need to give you visuals - the written content is already great,'" Derek notes. "That's when we knew we'd cracked the code."
Key Lessons for Agencies
Derek's experience highlights three critical insights:
- Start gradual: "Walk into the water versus dive right in"
- Focus on authenticity: Use client resources to maintain voice
- Share the wealth: Help local partners adopt new tools
- Faster project completion means improved customer satisfaction
From Service Provider to Trusted Advisor
The systematic approach transformed the agency's role:
- Empowering small businesses
- Advising local content creators
- Building stronger client relationships
- Leading community innovation
"Blaze is a game changer for delivering value while maintaining margins"
The Work-Life Effect
Most importantly, better systems meant better living: "I can finish work before dinner with family," Derek explains. "I'm present for sports games and conversations about their day. That's priceless."
His advice to other agencies? "We're not experts in what our clients do. But Blaze lets us create authentic content based on their resources and expertise. It's a game changer for delivering value while maintaining margins."
