There’re so many different website platforms out there, and just as many opinions on which one’s best for your business. Website platforms come with their own pros and cons. But it all boils down to what features or functionalities that you’re looking for in a platform. By reading this article you will be able to find the right website platform for your business!
Factors in choosing a website platform
- Functionality offered (domain registration, online store, mobile app)
- Ease of use
- Customisation options
- Website platform cost
Functionality of websites
Many websites will have different functions to aid you in managing your business. Website platforms are not only about aesthetics; there’s so much more that goes into the design of your website than just making it look pretty!
Some of these are shopping carts, calendars for scheduling events, order management and inventory control systems. Website platforms typically offer one or two of these features but may make up for it by having some other more specialised features that is specific to the website platform like a blog editor or designer templates.
Website Platforms involve SEO optimisation, security concerns, and increasing user engagement. Website platforms are a major factor in the success of your business, so choosing one that is right for you can be crucial to your growth!
Website Platforms
Here we discuss the top 5 website platforms: WordPress, Shopify, WooCommerce, Wix and Squarespace. We’ll talk about the benefits of each one as well as any drawbacks that might make them not fit your needs.
WordPress
WordPress
WordPress is a highly customisable, open-source platform that is free to use. It’s very popular because it’s so easy to find templates for your site and they are all completely different from each other with unique features. For instance, you could go for an elegant design or something bolder. The amount of plugins and themes available to you is almost limitless, which means you have the power to make your website truly unique. Over 41% of all websites on the internet are powered by WordPress. Want to learn more about WordPress? Check out our blog on What is WordPress and How to Set It Up!
Shopify
Shopify
Shopify is a hosted platform for online stores or eCommerce websites that is also free to use with all basic features included in their starter packages, such as unlimited bandwidth and storage space. There are monthly fees that you would have to pay for premium features, such as product fulfillment. They offer a variety of templates and easy drag n’ drop functionality with apps like their mobile app or social media management tools.
Squarespace
Squarespace
Squarespace is also a hosted platform and has an even more limited set of free options than Shopify but they do offer a free trial. They also provide you with templates, but they are more limited than what Shopify has to offer and the design of these templates is not as customisable.
Woocommerce
WooCommerce is a free platform that lets you create an eCommerce website and start selling things right away. It’s really easy to set up and get started with, which makes it perfect for beginners or those who want to just focus on content rather than the technical side of running their online store.
Wix
Wix is a full-fledged Website Platform that has all the bells and whistles. They offer tons of features like domain registration, custom domains free for life, over 100 templates to choose from, and just like Shopify, offer drag n’ drop functionality on their social media management tools and mobile app.
Costs of Website Platforms
The costs for website platforms are typically per month however some offer one-time payment options as well. Some website platforms have a flat monthly fee and others will charge by the number of items you list or sales made on your site, which can be a great option if you’re just starting out because you might not make many sales at first. Website platforms with monthly fees usually charge less per month as you get more features, like a larger inventory or advanced site security.
Hopefully this article clarifies everything, however if you have any further questions about website platforms, or wish to know more about our web design, graphic design services and SEO management services for local businesses; please visit us at www.geraldandrose.com.
Gerald and Rose is a digital marketing and website development agency based in Surry Hills, Sydney. G&R as we call ourselves was formed when the founders continued to have bad experiences with other providers.
Marketing, Social Media and Websites need to be simple, well priced and reliable. Business owners hate surprises, we know, we run small businesses. We can assist you with the right social media channels for your business, so drop us an email at sales@geraldandrose.com
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