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What Platform Should I Use to Build a Website?

Alright, let’s make this simple.

You need a website. That part’s done. Now you’re trying to figure out what to build it on.
And suddenly, there are a hundred options. WordPress, Shopify, Wix, Webflow, something else… all claiming to be “easy” or “the best.”

Let me stop you right there.

Before you think about the platform, ask yourself this:

“Why am I even making this site?”

That one question clears up a lot. Because here’s the truth:
Different platforms do different jobs.

Some are great for selling.
Some are better for showing what you do.
And some just help you get something live quickly—even if it’s basic.

Now think about your goal. Do you want to:

  • Sell products?
  • Show your work?
  • Get more clients or leads?
  • Share content, like blogs or tips?
  • Or just look professional when someone Googles you?

Once you’re clear on that, picking a platform gets much easier.

Forget what’s “popular.” Focus on what will make your life simpler.

Because the platform isn’t the goal. The goal is to have a website that works for you. One that people can visit, understand, and act on—whether that means buying, booking, calling, or just remembering your name.

Alright. Let’s break down a few platform choices—based on what you actually want your site to do.

If You’re Planning to Sell Products

Go with Shopify. It was built for this exact reason.

You can manage inventory, payments, shipping, customer details—all in one place.
It doesn’t need coding. You just pick a template, upload your products, set your pricing, and start selling.

Yes, there’s a monthly cost. But it saves time. It also saves you from tech headaches.

Use Shopify if your website’s main goal is to sell. Whether it’s T-shirts, jewellery, candles, digital downloads, or anything in between.

If You Want Full Control and a Site That Can Grow with You

WordPress is a solid choice.

It’s open-source, which means you’re free to do just about anything with it.
You’ll need hosting and a domain to start. But once it’s set up, it’s yours. No platform limits. No pricing tiers for every little feature.

It’s great for:

  • Blogs
  • Business websites
  • Agencies
  • Startups
  • SEO-focused content sites

Here’s the only catch: it does have a learning curve.
If you’re not technical, you might need someone to help you set it up—or handle updates.

But once it’s running, it gives you a lot of freedom.

If You Just Need a Simple Website (Fast)

Use Wix or Squarespace.

They’re both drag-and-drop builders. That means no coding, no tech jargon. You just pick a layout, change the text, upload your photos, and go live.

Good for:

  • Local businesses (salons, dentists, cafés)
  • Personal sites
  • Portfolios
  • Service pages

Between the two, Wix is more flexible. Squarespace looks better out of the box.

They handle hosting and security for you, so it’s less to worry about.

If you’re in a rush—or just want something that works without the fuss—either one will do the job.

If You Care About Design and Want a Modern Look

Webflow is a great option—if you’re comfortable learning something new.

It’s like having design software and a website builder in one.
You can create custom layouts, animations, even CMS-based pages—all without writing actual code. (But you will need to understand how websites work.)

It’s great for:

  • Designers
  • Startups
  • Creative agencies
  • SaaS companies

It takes time to get used to. But if you—or someone on your team—knows design, you’ll love how clean and powerful Webflow is.

If You Want a Personal Site or One-Pager

Check out Carrd.

Yes, that’s the name. Just one “r.”

It’s super lightweight, fast, and made for single-page sites.
Think of:

  • Landing pages
  • Link-in-bio pages
  • Simple “about me” sites

It’s not a full website builder like the others. But if you want something quick, cheap, and decent-looking—it’s perfect.

What About Custom-Coded Sites?

If you’re a startup building something completely custom—like a product dashboard or app-based site—then yes, custom code is the way to go.

But for 90% of people reading this, you don’t need that.

Custom sites mean:

  • Hiring a developer
  • Higher maintenance
  • More cost upfront

Go custom only if your idea truly requires it. Otherwise, use a platform that gives you the basics—fast and clean.

Let’s Recap — Match Your Goal to the Platform

Here’s a quick breakdown:

GoalPlatform
Sell productsShopify
Long-term blog or businessWordPress
Simple website, quick launchWix / Squarespace
Design freedom, modern feelWebflow
One-page profileCarrd
Tech product or appCustom build

Pick the one that does the job you need done—nothing more, nothing less.

A Quick Story That Might Help

We once worked with a fitness coach who was launching her brand. She wasn’t selling products yet—just offering Zoom training sessions and one-on-one programs.

Someone told her to go with Shopify.
Another friend built her a WordPress site (but forgot to teach her how to update it).
She came to us frustrated and stuck.

We moved her to Wix.
Built a clean homepage, listed her programs, added a contact form and testimonials.

She was live in two days.
Started getting inquiries within the first week.
No bugs. No login confusion. No “which plugin is broken now?”

It wasn’t fancy—but it worked. And that’s the point.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Overthink the Platform

Your website platform is just a tool. What matters more is:

  • What you put on the site
  • How easy it is for you to manage
  • And whether it helps you reach your goal

Start with what feels manageable.
You can always switch later. Many people do.

Right now, your focus should be:
✅ Get online
✅ Be clear
✅ Make it easy for someone to understand what you offer—and how to reach you

Everything else can grow from there.

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