Does Your Business Need a Website and What Are The Options?
Rianna M. Hill | Rianna@PancakeDigitalSolutions.com
At some point in the business ownership journey, this question comes up. Does your business need a website? In the 90s and early 2000s, this would have been a resounding yes. But as the internet and social media have changed the online business landscape, this question has become more complicated. Indeed, what it means to own a business, and business structure, in general, has rapidly evolved.
If you sell a product, you will likely want a robust website that can handle the inventory, but with Etsy and Facebook options, this is not a requirement to getting started. In general, having a website is still recommended as it gives people a place to find your business online. In general, people still have the expectation as well that a business will have a website. However, this can be as simple as one page with sections of information.
Here are some of the most common and highly recommended DIY options for building a website for business.
WordPress
For one of the more robust website DIY options, WordPress is the standard website builder. The website boasts:
36% of the web is built on WordPress.
There is a free version, but the paid option is well worth it. From free templates to thousands of customizable plugins, WordPress is a great option for a wide variety of businesses.
While it is one of the more complicated platforms to use, there are many youtube tutorials to guide you through the learning curve. It also provides options for custom coding if that is something you are looking for.
If you plan on having a blog and want lots of options in the future, WordPress is the website builder for you.
Shopify
For an eCommerce, a business selling products online, Shopify is the platform to use.
“With you from first sale to full scale
One platform with all the eCommerce and point of sale features you need to start, run, and grow your business.”
With a fairly user-friendly experience, Shopify provides you with a one-stop-shop for all your online store needs. From inventory management to customer lists, policies, listings, and email, it has it all. If there is a missing feature, the market has addons to give you what you need.
If you are looking to sell products online similar to running a shop, Shopify is the site for you.
Squarespace
For something simple and quick to get your website up and running, Squarespace is one of the easiest to use website building platforms.
Look like an expert right from the start.
Create a website that brings your ideas to life. Start with any website template and customize it to fit your needs, whether you’re making a portfolio, blog, or online store.
Many people like the website for its ease of use and speed and which they can get something up and running. As it develops, there are more and more robust options available on the platform. While it was originally ideal for a portfolio or basic information website, there are now products, templates, and features that can accommodate most businesses. They even have their own email platform and allow you to buy the domain name, (URL) right from the website.
If you are wanting a decent website fairly quickly that you can build yourself, or hire out for not too much cost, Squarespace is a great tool for you. Recommended for artists, architects, restaurants, and other local businesses (not selling products online).
Wix
Another somewhat common website builder is Wix. While it is limited in what it can do for a website, it is simple to use and fairly user-friendly. With simple to use templates, editing for mobile view, and SEO guidance, this tool is ideal for people who may not consider themselves tech-savvy or don’t want to take the time to learn a new tool.
The Freedom to Create the Websites You Want
Design and build your own high-quality websites. Whether you’re promoting your business, showcasing your work, opening your store or starting a blog—you can do it all with the Wix website builder.
If you’re looking for a quick and simple site, Wix may be a good option for you.
On The Table…
Having a website for your business is less or a requirement today than in the last several years, however, it is generally still recommended. Depending on the type of business you have and your needs on a website, there are four top options for you to build a website yourself, or have it done for you at a reasonable cost.
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