Choosing the right platform before you begin your website build is critical. While there are numerous options available, many people, including small business owners and solo entrepreneurs, gravitate towards WordPress. But what makes WordPress stand out from website builders like Squarespace, Wix, GoDaddy, and Ionos? Why is WordPress very different from these high profile alternatives? Let’s explore the main reasons to use WordPress over other website builders:
Who owns your website?
WordPress has a killer advantage over most of the alternatives: ownership.
Platforms like Squarespace and Wix operate on a subscription model, which means your website is tied exclusively to their services. Should you decide to leave, you cannot simply migrate your website elsewhere. You will lose your design and your functionality. And the reason for this is “ownership”. You don’t own your website. They do. And they grant you a licence to use it for the duration of your subscription. Cancel your subscription and you your usage licence is also terminated.
If you are still considering going with one of these subscription services, please check the terms and conditions of these types of services first, before you commit. Here are GoDaddy’s T’s & C’s (a thank you to Andrew Spiers for this bit of research):
“Ownership of Websites. Except for User Content, the websites created using Websites + Marketing Services belong to GoDaddy, and all such websites (including all copies thereof) are subject to copyright, trademark, patent, and other intellectual property laws of the United States and foreign countries. GoDaddy grants you an unrestricted license in the website for the duration of your Websites + Marketing Services subscription. Cancellation of your Websites + Marketing Services subscription for any reason terminates your license to the website. You will prevent any unauthorized copying of the websites created using Websites + Marketing Services. Unless otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement, no right or license under any intellectual property right is granted by this Agreement. GoDaddy reserves all rights not expressly granted herein.”
But there is even worse news: With these subscription services, they dont provide you with a way to export your content (your words and pictures) to use elsewhere. It is possible to extract your content – but it’s a major pain in the pants. There’s no “Export” button included in the control panel. You will very likely need the help of a web developer – additional costs and a major hassle. The whole model is designed to keep you tied to your subscription indefinitely.
How is the WordPress model different from other website builders?
In contrast, WordPress uses an entirely different model. WordPress is open-source – which means it’s free to use and you are free to modify it as you see fit. Unlike the subscription models above, if you build it with WordPress, you own your website – end of story!
You can host it anywhere (most web hosts support WordPress) and you can migrate to another host whenever you see fit. WordPress does not lock you into one provider. If you find better deals or services elsewhere, you can move your site without losing any content, design or functionality. WordPress is 100% portable.
Notably, should you decide move away from the WordPress platform entirely (why would you, though?), you can export all your content.
In short not only do you have unconditional ownership of your website, you have full control over every aspect, from design to functionality and content.
WordPress grows with your business
WordPress is designed to grow with you and your business. Websites built with WordPress encompass everything from the simplest blog to a fully-fledged e-commerce site. Some household names use WordPress: Amnesty International, The New York Times Company, The Rolling Stones, to name but a few,
In short, WordPress scales. As your business expands, you can easily add new features, pages, and functionality without having to switch platforms. This scalability is crucial for entrepreneurs looking to evolve without the hassle and expense of migrating or rebuilding their entire site on another platform, every time their business evolves or steps up to the next level.
WordPress is a sensible and practical long term choice.
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WordPress offers you control and flexibility
With WordPress you are in control. You are free to customise your site fully, from the layout and design to any additional functionality you require. Most small business owners will want a website that reflects their own unique brand and vision. That – in my opinion – requires the level of control that WordPress offers.
Flexibility is where WordPress truly shines. There are thousands of themes and plugins available – many of which are free – giving you the freedom to tailor your website to your specific needs. Whether that’s an online store, a portfolio, or a blog, the WordPress “eco-system” has the tools to help you achieve your goals.
Other platforms do of course offer additional functionality – but not on the same scale. Plus of course the dreaded subscription model rears its ugly head. For each extra function, you add there will likely be an additional monthly cost to consider.
The flexibility dilemma
One caveat is worth mentioning here: while the multitude of options available to WordPress is an obvious strength, it can also lead to overwhelm for newbie uses. If you are unfamiliar with web design, the sheer number of choices can lead to paralysis. Where do you start without a frame of reference. This is where guidance and support from someone like me can make the difference. I can help you navigate and narrow down the options. That way you can select the right tools for your needs without the stress of decision fatigue. Check out my earlier blog post: Is it possible to learn WordPress on your own?
A massive WordPress community
Lastly, you shouldn’t overlook WordPress’s popularity. It currently powers over 40% of the web, which makes it the most widely used website platform. Its popularity combined with its open source model means there is a massive WordPress community. There are countless resources, tutorials, and support forums to help you along the way. When you an encounter an issue, the chances are someone has already faced the same challenge and has a ready-made solution to share.
Final thoughts on the main reasons to use WordPress over other website builders
WordPress offers unparalleled advantages: ownership, scalability, portability, control and flexibility – alongside a thriving community. These are the main reasons to use WordPress over other website builders.
Whilst there may be a higher barrier to entry compared to other website builders, engaging with someone who properly understands WordPress can make the journey far smoother. With my support, you can unlock the potential of WordPress without ever feeling overwhelmed. You can join my FREE WordPress community here.
