When searching for a website developer, it can often feel overwhelming. There are so many options available – but where do you even begin?
I’m not the cheapest developer; there are more affordable alternatives out there. Some agencies offer websites for as little as £500. However, these websites can actually end up costing you more in the long run, with a negative return on investment.
Website development takes time, and cheap and quick websites often come with a host of downsides.
Running a business can already be costly, with expenses for software, equipment, and other essentials piling up.
So, at this point, you might be wondering: What makes it worth paying more for bespoke website development? Before diving into the benefits of investing in a quality website, let’s first examine the downsides of opting for a cheaper solution.
1. Lack of Security Unfortunately, most cheap or free themes are highly vulnerable to cyber-attacks. These vulnerabilities often arise from the reliance on plugins that come bundled with these websites. When plugins aren’t updated regularly, they become a prime target for hackers.
2. Numerous Bugs and Issues A bug on a website is essentially an error. When a website is built quickly, there’s a higher chance of mistakes being made. If these mistakes aren’t addressed before the site goes live, they can lead to a poor user experience. If users are frustrated, they’ll leave your site, and this can negatively impact conversions, SEO, and other important factors.
3. Lack of Browser Testing and Quality Assurance Testing a website is like testing any product before it’s released to the market. While it may not cause physical harm, it can certainly damage your business. Cheaper websites often aren’t tested across all browsers and devices, meaning you could lose potential customers if your site doesn’t work properly on some browsers or devices. Businesses spend millions to repair damage caused by subpar web companies.
4. Poor SEO Capabilities Some website builders offer very limited SEO options, which can lead to penalties from search engines. Themes for cheap websites are often slower due to the use of multiple plugins. Each plugin loads various stylesheets and JavaScript files, many of which aren’t even needed. If these plugins aren’t updated, they could also pose security risks. Additionally, Google now penalises websites that are slow to load.
5. Difficult to Maintain and Update (Sometimes Fully Restricted) Many cheap websites rely heavily on plugins to provide additional functionality. While plugins can be useful, they often come with recurring costs for updates and support. Moreover, plugins can clash with one another, potentially breaking your site. Overuse of plugins can also slow down your site and expose it to security threats.
6. No Website Training or Support As mentioned earlier, cheap websites are often built quickly, and this rush can mean you won’t receive any training on how to manage your site. This lack of training could result in you having to pay extra for ongoing support and maintenance.
1. High Level of Security Bespoke websites are far more secure than those built with templates or website builders. If you’re serious about security, a custom-built website is the way forward. Whether you handle payments online or collect customer information, a cyber-attack can wreak havoc. While a bespoke website may cost more initially, the long-term savings and security benefits outweigh the initial outlay.
2. Extensive Testing Thorough testing across all browsers and operating systems is an essential part of the web development process. You wouldn’t send a faulty product to market, and your website should be no different. I test every website I build to ensure that users have the best possible experience, no matter the device or browser they’re using.
3. Optimisation for Search Engines and Social Media Search engines are the backbone of online visibility. When I create a bespoke website, I ensure it’s fully optimised for SEO and social media from the very start. With a custom-built site, I can take into account various factors that influence rankings, such as page load speed, mobile optimisation, user journey, and customer behaviour. When you share your new website on social media, it’ll seamlessly fit with your brand.
4. Free Website Training Unlike cheaper website options, which often provide no guidance, I offer free website training for all my clients. While I also offer web maintenance services for those who need it, I ensure that you’re fully trained to update text, images, and even add new pages to your site as needed.
5. Tailored to Your Business Needs Bespoke websites are built specifically for your business. This means you can include features that make sense for you. A bespoke website is much more adaptable and easier to scale as your business grows. For example, if you require a specific order system for your products, I can create one that works just for you. In contrast, off-the-shelf plugins might offer generic solutions that don’t fully meet your needs.
6. Full Ownership of Your Website When you opt for a bespoke website, you own it outright as intellectual property. This means you’re not tied to third-party developers or plugins. Some agencies restrict access to your site, limiting your ability to make changes. With me, you have full ownership and access to your website, along with the training to manage it yourself.
Bespoke websites are user-friendly, secure, and offer fully responsive design, unlike generic alternatives. They are more secure, better suited to your business needs, and provide unique functionalities that can scale with your growth. The initial investment in a bespoke website is well worth it in the long run.
With 10 years of experience, I take the time to get to know your business and ensure your website goals are met. Whether you need a website rebuild or a brand-new design, I work closely with you every step of the way to deliver a service that is second to none.
Still unsure whether you need a bespoke website? If you care about your brand’s identity and long-term growth, the answer is likely yes.
Contact me today to get started!
Looking for a freelance WordPress developer who understands your needs and delivers on time? Let’s make your website work harder for you.