When it comes to building a website, the options can be overwhelming. There are tons of platforms out there, but as someone who works closely with service-based businesses, I tend to have my favorites. Specifically, I recommend Squarespace and Showit for most of my clients—both are fantastic in their own right, but choosing the right one depends on the unique needs of each business.
When I start working with a client on their web design, we take a deep dive into what will serve their business best, not just in the short-term, but for the long haul. A website isn’t just a place to showcase your work—it’s a powerful tool to help your business grow. That’s why choosing the right platform is so important. Here’s how I go about making the decision.
Showit: A Designer’s Dream for Service-Based Businesses
Pros: Showit is a fantastic option for service providers who want a unique, custom design with minimal limitations. It’s great for businesses that need basic features like a portfolio, gallery, and inquiry form, but still want a website that stands out from the crowd. If you’re in a business where the visual impact of your site is a key part of your brand, Showit is a dream.
Cons: On the flip side, Showit isn’t ideal for businesses looking to run full-scale e-commerce operations. While you can integrate third-party selling platforms like Shopify or ThriveCart, it can quickly get complicated if you’re selling a lot of products. For those who need a robust e-commerce solution built right in, Showit may not be the easiest or most seamless choice.
Squarespace: All-In-One for Multifaceted Businesses
Pros: Squarespace shines when it comes to businesses that wear multiple hats—whether you’re selling physical products, courses, digital downloads, or anything in between. It’s an all-in-one platform that can handle the complexity of a multifaceted business. Plus, it’s intuitive to use and has a ton of built-in features, which means you don’t need to add a lot of external integrations. It’s a great option if you want something that handles it all without too much fuss.
Cons: Where Squarespace can be a little trickier is in the customization department. If you want something really unique, there’s going to be more coding involved. It’s not impossible, but it can take more time and technical know-how to make it happen. For clients who are looking for high customization with a quick turnaround and don’t need a lot of complex functionality, Squarespace might not be the best fit.
My Approach: Long-Term Business Growth
At the end of the day, the platform I choose for my clients is all about helping their business evolve and thrive. I don’t just think about getting the site live—I think about its long-term capabilities. How can the website grow with them as their business expands? Will they be able to make updates easily? Will the platform allow for future scalability?
That’s why I always make sure my clients feel confident in maintaining and updating their sites as their needs change over time. Whether it’s tweaking content or adding new features, the goal is always to create something that stands the test of time.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Website Home?
So, if you’re ready to build a website that not only looks great but also works for your long-term goals, I’d love to help you find the perfect platform. Reach out through my inquiry form and let’s start building your virtual home today!
