The Downside of DIY Websites

In today’s fast paced online environment, it’s so easy to be tempted by DIY website building software and for every small or startup business this can often be a viable option to get themselves a web presence for the very first time.

In this blog, we are going to discuss some areas where the DIY sites don’t stand up against a quality website, designed and built by a professional website developer and why these sites are worth the investment over time.

Experience Designed for Your User

Professional website design and development is ideally structured around a creative process called User Experience Design (UX). This process involves creating a product with intention of maximising the usability, accessibility and experience for the user with the product.

For website design, this means crafting a design that meets the needs of the intended user, is easy to navigate and a joy to use. Professional website design is also created with design and web best practice at the forefront. Often DIY sites are created by the small business owner or startup, and it can be difficult to remember your website is not meant for you and to remove your own personal likes and dislikes.

It should, of course, represent your brand and tone of voice, but the design must appeal to the user of the website, in order for them to take the desired action. An enjoyable website experience will help create long-term and returning customers, and while additional planning can result in higher upfront costs, investing in a UX based website is a smart long-term investment.

Structured For Your Goals

A professionally built and planned website is structured with the aim to meet certain goals as identified by the business owner or client. Generally, DIY sites allow you to select from pre-made templates and content blocks that aren’t necessarily aligned with your individual business goals.

Built to Convert

A website should be designed and built in a way that encourages the user to take an action. This may be joining a mailing list, enquiring about a product or service, or picking up the phone and making a call. A professional website designer has strategized and planned the elements in their design intended to lead to a conversion.