WordPress, Website Builders, or Custom-Coded Websites - What's Right for You?

Let's face it—running a small business is hard enough without having to also navigate the wild world of web design. Whether you're thinking about using WordPress, a website builder such as Wix, or going all in with custom-coded websites, the choices can become very overwhelming. Fear not; we have got your back!

At Catch That Click, we aim to help small businesses throughout the UK go online with stunning, reliable, and fast websites—without the headache of trying to do it yourself. In this post, we'll deep-dive into the pros and cons of each option and see why a custom website might just be the best move for your business.

Knowing the basics: Web Design Options for Your Business

Before you choose, it's good to know what you're getting yourself into. So here's a quick rundown of your main options:

• WordPress: WordPress is a website content management system (CMS) but is often used as a website builder. It sounds simple but can be tough to learn. Reliance on plugins can be complicated, often slow, and requires some technical skills to use effectively. While popular, it's not as easy as it first seems.

• Website builders: Website builders like Wix and Squarespace seem user-friendly, but they come with hidden drawbacks. They offer pretty templates and drag-and-drop interfaces but create slow, code-heavy websites that can hurt your business's online performance. These platforms might look easy, but they compromise website speed and professional quality for convenience. They can be a great option for hobbyists or those not looking for a large audience.

• Custom-coded websites: Custom-coded websites are fantastic for businesses serious about online performance. Carefully crafted, these sites load lightning-fast, rank higher on search engines, and provide a seamless user experience. They are tailored precisely to your business needs, delivering speed, functionality, and a professional edge that sets you apart from the competition. While the initial investment can be higher than template-based solutions, the long-term benefits often outweigh the upfront costs.

Where Website Builders and WordPress Can Come Up Short

So, what's the catch with those DIY platforms such as WordPress or website builders? Sure, they might be great in certain situations, but here are a few reasons they might not cut it for your growing business:

• Limited Customisation: These platforms offer cookie-cutter templates with minimal personalisation. Your website can end up looking like countless others, with little room to truly reflect your brand's personality.

• Hosting & Maintenance Headaches: Website builders and WordPress require constant updates and management. You're responsible for keeping plugins compatible, securing your site, and handling technical issues. It's like maintaining an old car that always needs repairs. Not to mention that with WordPress websites you'll need to host the website!

• Basic SEO: Want your website to rank better in Google? Using WordPress or a website builder like Wix often limits you to mediocre SEO (Search Engine Optimisation). This is because drag-and-drop builders aren't as efficient as creating a custom-coded website.

• Scalability: As your business grows, these platforms become restrictive. They can struggle with increased traffic and adding new features.What worked when you started quickly becomes a limitation, forcing you to start over or compromise your long-term vision.

Are Custom-Coded Websites the Best for Your Business?

Hold on, though; why are custom websites way better for your business?

• Mobile-First Design: At Catch That Click, we first build sites that look and work great on mobile devices. Why? Because these days, most users are browsing from their phones! We design for speed and functionality, making sure your website performs at its best, whether on desktop or mobile.

• Speedy Sites: Ever clicked away from a slow-loading site? So has everybody else! Website builders and WordPress plugins can leave you with heavy unused code that can slow down your website, driving away potential customers. Our speedy custom code allows us to ensure that your site is lightning-fast, offering visitors a seamless and hassle-free experience.

• SEO Benefits: Our websites are designed and built with your SEO in mind. From the way the code is written to the keywords placed throughout your site, we make sure your business is set up for success on search engines like Google.

How Catch That Click Can Help With Your Website

Unlike DIY platforms, we don't just give you a tool and leave you to figure it out. We actually walk you through the whole process to make sure you get a site that looks amazing and helps your business grow. Here's how it works:

1. Design Form: First, we send you a simple form to understand your vision and goals.
2. Initial Design: Our team presents an initial design for your review.
3. Review & Edit: You get to make tweaks until it's just right!
4. Go Live: Once everything is perfect, we'll launch your site!
5. Ongoing Maintenance: We don't just hand it over and run. We maintain your site, sending you regular performance reports.

On top of that, we offer graphic design services, so if you need a logo or branding, we've also got you covered!

What's Best for Your Business?

So, what works best for your business: WordPress, a website builder, or a custom website?

WordPress and website builders like Wix are good for simple hobby websites, but they just don't allow you much opportunity for organic growth in the long term. If you're serious about your business and want your site to scale with you, an investment in a custom website may be the best thing you can do.

Choosing the right platform for your website is a big decision that takes time. If you are stuck, let’s talk!