How to Choose a Website Platform for Your Small Business
Choosing the right website platform can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to building websites. Should you use WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, Shopify, or something else? In this guide, we’ll break down the options, give practical examples, and help you pick a platform that fits your small business needs.
Why Your Choice of Platform Matters
The website platform you choose affects how easy it is to build and maintain your site, how it looks on different devices, and how well it performs in search engines. Picking the wrong platform can make updates frustrating and limit your growth.
Popular Website Platforms for Small Businesses
| Platform | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| WordPress.org | Blogs, service businesses, scalable websites | Highly flexible, many plugins, SEO-friendly | Requires hosting setup, learning curve |
| Wix | Small business websites, portfolios | Drag-and-drop builder, easy to use, templates | Less flexible for complex needs, limited scalability |
| Squarespace | Design-focused businesses, small shops | Beautiful templates, responsive design built-in | Fewer integrations, slightly higher cost |
| Shopify | Online stores, e-commerce focused | Optimized for sales, secure, easy payment integration | Monthly fees, transaction fees unless using Shopify Payments |
| Weebly | Simple websites, small stores | Easy drag-and-drop, beginner-friendly | Less flexible, fewer advanced features |
Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Platform
Follow these steps to make your choice easier:
- Identify your website goals: Are you selling products, showcasing services, or running a blog? Your goal helps narrow the options.
- Consider your budget: Some platforms have monthly fees, others require hosting and domain costs.
- Check ease of use: Beginners may prefer drag-and-drop platforms like Wix or Squarespace, while WordPress is better for scalability.
- Look at SEO capabilities: Make sure your platform allows you to optimise content. For tips, see our Beginner’s Guide to Website SEO.
- Test templates and mobile responsiveness: Preview designs and check how they look on smartphones. For more on this, read What is Responsive Web Design and Why It Matters for Local Customers.
- Evaluate support and updates: Look for platforms with active support and regular updates to keep your website secure.
Examples of Platform Choices for Small Businesses
- Local café or restaurant: Squarespace or Wix for quick setup and beautiful menus.
- Freelancer or consultant: WordPress or Wix to showcase portfolio and blog.
- Online store: Shopify for sales-focused features and payment integration.
- Service business: WordPress for flexibility, booking forms, and growth potential.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing a platform based only on aesthetics without considering functionality.
- Ignoring mobile responsiveness – local customers often search on their phones.
- Underestimating the learning curve – some platforms require more setup than expected.
- Not thinking about future growth – make sure the platform can scale as your business grows.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a website platform doesn’t have to be confusing. By understanding your goals, testing templates, and considering future growth, you can select the right platform for your small business. A carefully chosen platform helps you reach local customers, improve your online presence, and save time and frustration down the line.
If you’re ready to start, check out our guide on building a simple 5-page website to see how quickly you can get your site online.