3 Things to Know Before Choosing a Website Platform
Building a website can be an exciting yet daunting task. Your website often serves as the first impression customers have of your business, making it crucial to choose the right platform. Before diving into the sea of website-building options, consider these three essential factors:
1. Understand Your Business Needs
Before selecting a website building platform, take a step back and reflect on your business goals and how your website will support them. Ask yourself:
Is your website primarily informational, serving as a digital brochure to showcase your services?
Do you need functionality to schedule appointments or consultations directly through your site?
Will your website operate as an e-commerce store, requiring robust shopping cart features, payment gateways, and inventory management?
Understanding your business needs will help you identify the essential features and capabilities your website platform must offer. For instance, if you’re running an online store, platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce might be the best fit. Alternatively, if you’re offering professional services, platforms with integrated scheduling tools like Squarespace or Wix may suit your needs better.
2. Assess Your Technical Skills and Resources
Not all website-building platforms are created equal when it comes to ease of use. Consider your technical expertise and the time you can dedicate to maintaining your website:
User-Friendly Platforms: Tools like Wix and Squarespace offer drag-and-drop interfaces that make it easy for beginners to design and manage their websites without coding knowledge.
Customizable Options: If you have technical skills or access to a developer, platforms like WordPress offer unmatched flexibility and scalability. However, they may require more effort to set up and maintain.
Support and Resources: Investigate the customer support and resources available for each platform. Some platforms provide 24/7 support and extensive tutorial libraries, while others expect users to be more self-sufficient.
Choosing a platform that aligns with your comfort level and available resources can save you from unnecessary frustration and ensure smooth website management.
3. Budget for the Present and Future
Building a website involves both initial and ongoing costs. Understanding these financial implications will help you avoid unpleasant surprises:
Upfront Costs: Some platforms offer free plans with basic features, but these often come with limitations like ads or restricted customization. Paid plans usually start at a modest monthly fee and include advanced features and a custom domain.
Ongoing Costs: Factor in hosting fees, domain registration, premium themes, plugins, and any additional integrations your website might require.
Scalability: Consider your business’s growth potential. If you plan to expand your website’s functionality, ensure the platform can scale with you without incurring exorbitant costs or requiring a complete overhaul.
Planning your budget with both current needs and future growth in mind ensures you select a platform that delivers long-term value.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right website building platform is a critical step in creating a digital presence that supports your business goals. By understanding your business needs, evaluating your technical capabilities, and budgeting wisely, you’ll set yourself up for success. Remember, the best platform isn’t just about features; it’s about finding one that aligns seamlessly with your vision and resources.
Need help deciding on a platform or designing a site that stands out? Let’s connect and make your vision a reality!
