Web design and development may be one of the most in-demand, yet under-serviced, SEO products on the market.
But why?
It seems most businesses follow this formula: build a website first, worry about the SEO later. As many of us have observed, achieving desired results can be challenging when a client operates a five-page site using basic platforms.
Of course, working with a WordPress site filled with errors that require extensive consulting to uncover can be equally difficult. Web design and development should be developed with SEO in mind.
While my knowledge of web design and development is basic, my industry experience shows that certain platforms are better for SEO than others. Let’s explore!
Website Builder vs. CMS: What’s the Difference?
Unless you are a coding expert, most website development projects will be built using either a basic website builder or a more sophisticated content management system (CMS).
A website builder should be familiar to anyone in SEO. Common examples include Wix, Weebly, and other similar platforms. These builders incorporate drag-and-drop UX and UI, making it easy for anyone to build a site without hiring a developer.
For cash-strapped small businesses, website builders are often a great choice, though this comes at the cost of scalability and sophistication. While website builders offer intuitive styling features, developers often struggle to make backend changes or modify hosted files.
For this reason, developers prefer the flexibility and blank slate that a CMS like WordPress provides. CMS platforms enable developers to store and structure content on their site. A common misconception is that WordPress is a website developer; it is actually a CMS that can incorporate website builders and other plugins into its API.
Using a CMS, developers are free to:
- Add their own HTML.
- Manipulate .htaccess files.
- Organize content on their website however they choose.
CMS platforms also offer themes and templates that can simplify page building.
Website Builder Pros
- Easy learning curve.
- Cost-effective.
- Drag-and-drop features.
Website Builder Cons
- Limited development options.
- Often poor URL structures.
- Some plans may limit page size.
CMS Pros
- Flexibility and sophistication.
- Data management.
- .htaccess file management.
- Availability of SEO plugins and tools.
- Simple and intuitive interface.
CMS Cons
- Steep learning curve.
- Easy to break.
You may be inclined to choose a CMS for added SEO value, but different businesses should consider various factors:
- Your budget
- Your level of expertise
- Your website’s purpose
What Program Is Best for Your Business?
WordPress
WordPress’s open-source software platform and extensive plugin library make it a robust choice for SEO professionals. It’s excellent for companies producing lots of content and looking for simple designs. Plugins like Yoast and WP Rocket can enhance your onsite SEO strategy. WordPress offers flexibility and customization for fast and responsive SEO-friendly websites. One frequent issue, however, is security, making it less preferable for some e-commerce companies and financial institutions.
Shopify
Shopify is ideal for e-commerce stores, allowing creation of entire online businesses on a self-hosted platform. Businesses don’t need to worry about hosting and can customize their CSS and HTML. It’s recommended for small retailers looking for more sophistication than basic platforms.
Squarespace
Squarespace has long been favored by small businesses for its visually stunning design templates and flexible pricing. It’s great for small, local businesses, although it falls short in SEO features and integrating other APIs. Manipulating metadata and setting up redirects can be tricky for first-time users.
Wix
Wix is a good solution for creating small websites that are light on content. It’s affordable and easy to design, making it a suitable short-term option for sites not relying heavily on organic search. However, Wix significantly limits SEO capabilities, making it less optimal for long-term use.
Weebly
Weebly is the simplest website builder on this list, with easy drag-and-drop features for non-coders. However, it’s challenging to implement advanced SEO features, and migrating to other platforms can be frustrating, making it less ideal for growing businesses.
Further SEO Considerations for Developing a Website
Working with JavaScript
Using JavaScript heavily in a site was once frowned upon; now, search engines can read JavaScript better. However, it’s easy to block search engine bots unintentionally. Work with developers to use JavaScript sparingly so it doesn’t impede crawl paths and site speed.
Design for Mobile First
All designs should prioritize mobile-first. Whether using WordPress or Wix, ensure the design meets the physical requirements of smaller screens and different user habits. With the mobile-first index, sites that provide responsive web design, fast page speeds, and easy accessibility will rank higher.
Finding a solid website builder and CMS that accommodates these considerations is crucial for ongoing SEO success.
What Are Your Favorite Tools & Platforms?
Every web designer and developer has a different approach to balancing UX and SEO. How do you approach this topic? What insights can you provide to bridge the gap between web development and SEO? Share your thoughts in the comments!
More Resources:
- WordPress SEO Without an SEO Plugin
- Wix vs. WordPress? The Data Doesn’t Lie
- A Complete Guide to Launching Your New Website
Image Credits
Featured Image: Pexels
All screenshots were taken by the author, March 2019
