So, you’re thinking about making your own website. It sounds like a good plan, right? You’re in control and it seems like a cheaper option. But before you start, ask yourself: are you really going to save money, or could you end up spending more than if you hired a professional?

Why People Like the Idea of DIY Websites

Making your own website can seem like the perfect solution. It’s supposed to be easy, fast, and cheap. Plus, those free website templates and tools can be pretty tempting. They make you think you can put together a great-looking website in no time. But is it really that simple, or are you missing something important?

Here are 8 Things to Think About Before You Decide on a DIY Website

• Time Equals Money: When you make your own website, it’s not just about the money you spend. It’s about the time you put in, too. Every hour you spend working on your website is time you’re not using to make money elsewhere. And oftentimes, it can take more time than you think – surpassing the cost of hiring a professional.

• Quality Matters: When you’re trying to save money by making your website, you might end up with a site that doesn’t look or work the way you wanted. This can be a big turn-off for potential customers or anyone visiting your site. Remember, a professional web designer does a lot more than just make your site look nice. They have the skills to make sure your website is easy to use (that’s user experience), runs smoothly (technical optimization), and can grow with your business (future scalability).

• The SEO Challenge: Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the cornerstone of online visibility. DIY websites may provide basic SEO tools, but lack the nuanced, evolving strategies employed by professionals to keep your site ranking high. A professional website is built with SEO woven into its fabric, ensuring that your site not only looks good but is also discoverable by your target audience.

• User-Friendly or User-Frustrating: How easy and intuitive your website is to use can really make or break its success. Sure, DIY websites might look good, but they can oftentimes be confusing and hard to navigate. This can create a frustrating experience for your visitors. If people find it difficult to find what they need or don’t enjoy using your site, they’re likely to leave and not come back. That’s not just a missed visit; it’s a potential customer walking away. That’s why focusing on user-friendly design is key, something that often requires a professional touch to get right.

• Customization: DIY website tools come with their own set of limitations. While they offer some level of customization, they often fall short when it comes to adding specific features or giving your site a unique, standout look. This means you might find yourself stuck with a website that looks a lot like many others out there, lacking that personal touch that sets your business apart.

• Maintenance and Updates: Professional websites are not just a product – they’re a service. Ongoing maintenance and updates, essential for keeping a website current and secure, are often part and parcel of professional web design packages.

• Security Risks: When it comes to security, DIY websites often don’t measure up to those built by professionals. This can be a big concern, as it puts both your site and your valuable data at risk. The last thing any business needs is a security breach, which can damage your reputation and trust with customers. Professional web developers put a strong focus on keeping your site safe. They use advanced security measures and keep everything up-to-date to protect against threats. DIY website builders might be user-friendly, but they often lack this comprehensive level of security, leaving your business more exposed to potential risks.

When you add it all up, making a website by yourself might cost you more in the long run. So, think about letting a pro help you save money and avoid these headaches.

Get in touch with us and let’s talk about how we can make a website that’s perfect for you and your business.