Choose to Build the Right Home for Your Website

The Sprocket Report

Every business needs to be online, but there are so many options! How do you choose between the website you want, the website you need and the website you can afford? Start by taking a look at the ways in which you can build a website.

The phrase "building a website" is the perfect analogy for explaining website construction because it compares remarkably well to home construction. Tie on your tool belt and we’ll explain further:

Staking Your Claim 
The Uniform Resource Locator (URL) is your address in the internet world. You tell people that address so they know where to come to visit you. Even though we say you "buy the domain name," it's really only a rental for a specific period of time. It’s important to pay attention to your renewal dates so you don’t accidentally lose your claim. 

Platform Construction
Even with your URL address claimed, you have nowhere to entertain visitors until you build a place for your business to reside. Sometimes you'll see an "Under Construction" sign at a URL while the website is being built. Just like physical buildings, there are many different ways to build an internet residence. Consider the pros and cons of each to find the best fit for you:

Custom Built
When building a custom home, you work with an architect who listens to your desires and needs before creating a unique plan. You can do the same with a web developer. Once you agree to the plan, your website is built from scratch just like a stick-built house. If you change your mind or want to add something, you can be accommodated until you get exactly the website you want. But also like a custom home, that extra time and effort will push up the cost.

Modular Systems
Modular homes are created by assembling pre-fabricated pieces at your address, arranged in your desired configuration. Modular websites are built the same way. You can get nearly all the website features you want at a lower price point by using a Content Management System with pre-built plug-ins. Custom details can be added if needed and as your budget allows, but an attractive, functional website is easily yours with the minimum layout in expense and time.

Pre-Built
In emergency situations, a FEMA trailer provides all the basics of a home. Likewise, website templates provide the necessary elements for a quick and easy online presence. They're clean, attractive and simple to maintain, but they tend to all look a bit alike and you can't really modify them to your specifications. 

Technically, we all could build our own houses and some folks do. But most of us don’t have the necessary skill or time, so we let professionals do the job. The same goes for websites. Consider your needs and your budget and choose a developer who will help you build the kind of website that's right for you. If you have more questions about the options, contact us by phone or email to talk. We're always happy to help!

This is an update to "Knowing More Makes Your Website Less Dangerous” dated 7/22/2013.

Kate GingoldKate Gingold

I have been writing a blog with web marketing tips and techniques every other week since 2003. In addition to blogging and client content writing, I write books and a blog on local history.

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I have been writing a blog with web marketing tips and techniques every other week since 2003. In addition to blogging and client content writing, I write books and a blog on local history.

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