A website is one of the most important business tools you’ll ever invest in—but the platform you choose to build it on can make or break its performance, flexibility, and future cost.
I’ve seen this firsthand while helping clients clean up expensive messes left behind by templated builders, bloated WordPress themes, or platforms that looked good on the surface but couldn’t keep up with the business.
If you’re building a new website (or rebuilding an old one), here’s what you need to know about choosing the right platform—and why it matters more than you might think.
Not All Website Platforms Are Created Equal
Just because a website looks good doesn’t mean it’s working hard behind the scenes. Some platforms:
- Load slowly, especially on mobile
- Make SEO optimization difficult (or impossible)
- Rely on heavy themes or bloated plugins
- Limit your design flexibility or data portability
I’ve worked with clients stuck on platforms like Wix or Squarespace that couldn’t scale or optimize properly—or WordPress sites overloaded with plugins they didn’t even know were there.
The result? Poor rankings, low conversion rates, and ongoing headaches.
What to Look for in a Website Platform
When I help a client choose or rebuild their site, I’m thinking beyond the launch. I’m looking at:
- Speed: Is the platform optimized for fast load times?
- SEO control: Can we fully customize metadata, schema, and page structure?
- Design flexibility: Can the site grow with your brand?
- Ownership: Can you export your data if you ever leave the platform?
- Security: Does it require constant maintenance or updates to stay protected?
Whether I’m recommending WordPress, 11ty, Astro, or another platform, I always start with the client’s goals—and match the platform to the business, not the other way around.
How “Easy Builders” Can Cost You More in the Long Run
There’s nothing wrong with DIY platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Shopify—for the right kind of project. But I’ve seen plenty of business owners outgrow them fast.
Here’s what typically happens:
- You want more SEO control, but can’t edit core settings
- You want to redesign your homepage, but hit template limits
- You want to migrate—but realize you don’t own your content
By the time a client calls me, they’re often frustrated, stuck, and paying monthly for a platform that no longer serves them.
In contrast, building on a more flexible platform from the start might cost more upfront—but it saves time, money, and limitations down the road.
The Right Platform Gives You Leverage
When your website is fast, flexible, and fully optimized, it becomes an asset—not a liability. It helps you:
- Rank better in search engines
- Convert more visitors into leads
- Scale your marketing without starting over
- Adapt to changes in your business or industry
That’s why I always recommend building for long-term growth, not short-term convenience.
Not Sure What Platform Is Right for You?
If you’re not sure whether to use WordPress, Webflow, 11ty, or something else—I can help you make the call.
Reach out today for a quick strategy session.
I’ll ask the right questions, assess your goals, and recommend a platform that supports your business now and in the future.
