Website builder or web developer: what does a small business actually need?

A website builder and a web developer solve overlapping problems in different ways. For a straightforward small-business site, a builder can provide templates, hosting and editing tools without requiring the owner to maintain code. A developer becomes more valuable as requirements become unusual or technically demanding.

Start with the job of the website. A brochure site needs clear information, contact details and good performance. An online shop adds products, payments, order management and shipping considerations. A custom web application is a different project again.

Builders can reduce setup friction because many technical pieces are packaged together. The trade-off is that the business works within the platform's system. That can be completely reasonable when the platform already does what is required.

A developer can provide greater customisation and can help make architectural decisions, but custom work also needs ongoing maintenance. The cheapest initial route is not always the cheapest route over several years.

Ownership and portability deserve attention whichever approach you take. Know where the domain is registered, who controls accounts, how content can be exported and what happens if you want to move later.

Inside The Software covers Wix, Squarespace and Shopify, with a direct Shopify vs Wix comparison for businesses considering website and ecommerce options.

Inside The Software provides independent software information. Features, pricing and plan details can change, so check current information with the software provider before buying.