Note to readers: This is the centerpiece of my “small business website development” series, so I’ll be updating and adding to it as I create more supporting content.
Whether you’re running a quirky coffee shop downtown, a buzzing tech startup, or a charming bed-and-breakfast in the countryside, you’re here because you’ve got a small business and you need a website. And, you really do need one. In this digital age, not having a web presence is like running a business on hard mode. So let’s jump into the world of small business website development and boost up your stats!
I Want A Website For My Business, But Where Do I Start?
Starting a website can feel like trying to eat an elephant in one bite (spoiler: you can’t, unless you’re a giant). But don’t worry! Just like you’d tackle that elephant (purely metaphorically, of course) one bite at a time, we’re going to break down this website thing into digestible parts.
First thing’s first – you need to decide what your website needs to do for you. Do you need:
- An online store?
- A booking system?
- A place to show off your wares?
- Just something for people to find when they search your name?
Identifying your website’s main purpose will guide the rest of the journey.
How Much Does Small Business Website Development Cost?
Let’s talk dollars and cents (not the kind you find in your couch cushions). The cost of small business website development range from a few dollars a month to thousands upfront.
At one end, you have the DIY route using a website builder platform, which can start from as low as $10 a month. And at the other end, a custom-built, feature-packed website from a professional web design agency can run into the thousands.
Think of it like a restaurant: a fancy Michelin-starred meal will undoubtedly taste amazing, but sometimes a simple home-cooked dinner does the job just as well. It all depends on what you need and what you can afford.
What Is The Best Website for Small Business Owners?
If you’ve decided to roll up your sleeves and build your own website, we’re in for an adventure together! But with so many platforms to choose from, it’s easy to feel like a kid in a candy store. To help you decide, let’s take a look at some of the best options on the market:
WordPress
WordPress is like the Swiss army knife of website builders – it can do almost anything! With thousands of themes and plugins available, the customization options are nearly endless.
- Best Point: Highly customizable and scalable, so your website can grow with your business.
Squarespace
If WordPress is the Swiss army knife, then Squarespace is the elegant fountain pen. Known for its beautiful templates and user-friendly interface, Squarespace is a solid choice for small businesses that want a professional look with minimal fuss.
- Best Point: Sleek design, user-friendly interface, and 24/7 customer support.
Wix
Wix is like the friendly neighbor who always has the tool you need. It offers a wide array of templates, an intuitive drag-and-drop editor, and the flexibility to add advanced features as you need them.
- Best Point: Highly flexible with a large selection of templates and an easy-to-use editor.
Shopify
Are you running an e-commerce business? Shopify might be your best bet. This platform is like your dedicated store manager, handling everything from product listings to online transactions.
- Best Point: An all-in-one e-commerce platform that manages everything from inventory to payments.
When To Hire Small Business Website Design Services?
Sometimes, despite the best intentions, you might find that building a website is like trying to learn a new language while juggling chainsaws. If you’re in over your head, or simply don’t have the time, hiring a small business website design service might be your best bet.
Don’t feel pressured to fork out for the most expensive package on offer. Look for a service that aligns with your needs and budget, and don’t be afraid to shop around.
And that’s it! Armed with this guide, you’re well on your way to navigating the world of small business website development. Remember, it’s not about creating the flashiest website out there, it’s about creating the best website for your small business.
Do you need some help with your site? Or just want more clarification on where to start? I know a thing or two about websites, and I’d be happy to share my opinions on your situation if you get in touch with me.
