Why “FREE” Websites Can Cost in the Long Run
When some businesses and non profits are just getting started – or trying to save money – a free (or cheap) website builder like SquareSpace, Wix, GoDaddy, and Weebly can sound like a great solution. Those platforms tend to promise fast setup, low or no cost, and no need to learn any website coding. For many small businesses and nonprofits, that can be a very tempting offer.
Unfortunately, what might look like a great solution at first glance often comes with other underlying issues and strings attached. When it comes to the online home and marketing hub for your business or organization, those hidden strings can tangle up and even stall your growth, credibility, and even your ability to stand out in a crowded space.
You May Not Own What You Think You Own
One of the surprising and sometimes hidden things about these free website platforms is just how much control they keep over your website and content. Even though you might “build” your site on their platform and system, you rarely can’t take that site with you should you decide you want to leave. You’re essentially locked into their platform, meaning if they could raise prices, change or remove features, you’re still going to be tied to that provider.
Design Limitations Hold You Back
While these free website builders are designed to be simple, that simplicity can come at the high cost of flexibility. The websites built in these builders are limited to a rather small number of pre-made templates. Oftentimes, these templates can only be changed so much. That might work just fine for a simple personal blog, but for a business or non profit working to build a brand and credibility, that is not ideal.
SEO Is Often an Afterthought
Search engine optimization will often provide a website with a needed life blood – traffic. If your website can’t be found in search engines when users search common phrases pertaining to your business (keywords), it wont help your business. Many free website platforms aren’t designed or built with search engines in mind. Common issues like page speed, structured content, and optimization tools are far too limited or hidden behind a paywall.
Outgrowing a Free Site Is Almost Inevitable
Successful businesses and nonprofits don’t stay the same for too long. As they introduce new services, events, donation forms, booking systems, blog content, it all requires a website that can keep up. Free platforms tend to be limited in what all is provided. And even moving up to a paid level doesn’t mean those platforms will have great options. The exact needs of your business will need to fit into what they provide.
Support Can Be Spotty at Best
Unfortunately, with a website things can go wrong. On free platforms, there are usually limited options for what to do when this happens. You’ll often be first sent to community forums, articles (often outdated), or automated chatbots that don’t understand what you’re asking. If your site crashes or a feature breaks, you can be left on your own to troubleshoot it.
So What Should You Do Instead?
If you’re just testing a new idea, creating a personal blog, or just looking to have fun, a free website builder might be a great choice. But for businesses and nonprofits with goals of growth, connecting with an audience, and building their real credibility in the marketplace, looking into a more sustainable option will be well worth the investment.
For businesses and nonprofits that are truly focused on the growth of their organizations and building an honest brand, a more intentional and well thought out website solution is worth the investment. Your website should reflect your organization’s mission, serve a need to your audience, and scale alongside your goals. Whether it’s a custom-built site or a professionally guided template, the important thing is having a platform and website that gives you ownership, flexibility, and room to grow.
Free Isn’t Always the Best Fit for Your Future
It’s easy to see why free website builders are appealing for some small businesses and non profits. The allure of quick and simple is hard to ignore, especially if budgets are limited. In the long run, a website that’s designed and built to fit your brand and goals is one of the best investments any organization can make. When your website is your online home, it shouldn’t come with strings attached.
