While these experts still exist and can provide services that make the creation of one easier, they are no longer required if people want to build a site on their own. Indeed, there has been a rise in DIY website builders, with many Canadians using these to help them get online themselves, especially in Alberta.
According to data collected by Statistique Canada, around 95.2% of the population that lives in the province regularly uses the internet. Furthermore, Made in CA estimated that Alberta's share of online shopping revenue in Canada was 13.1% in 2020, as more of the local residents continue to prefer to use the internet to purchase goods and services. These figures underscore the increasing demand for businesses to have a website.
Building a website is easier than ever
With the undeniable importance of being online, businesses and entrepreneurs must ensure they have a website where they can be found and advertise their services. Using a firm or an individual with the expertise to create one can be costly and may not always be a viable solution for a start-up or small business. In 2021, over 527,000 businesses were considered small businesses, with 87% of those established having fewer than five employees.
Nonetheless, technological advances have enabled anyone to be a website builder Canada, with a range of different providers now available to consider using. Each of those that are ranked as the best options to use has streamlined the processes that users must go through, eliminating the need to have expert knowledge about coding and other technical aspects. With DIY options, users can simply follow a few steps to create their ideal platform, utilising numerous presets and other technologies to help them create a professional-looking site.
DIY websites have also allowed users to have more control over their designs and the appearance of their brands. With the ability to fully customise the way a website looks using easy-to-use methods like drag and drop or instant clicking, users can have the flexibility they may not find when using an expert. While they may have knowledge and form opinions based on them, DIY website builders will allow the user to do what they want, giving them more free control, which may suit their brand.
These platforms have also reduced the potential lead time that can be experienced when using someone else. DIY websites allow users to work on their websites whenever they want, making changes that they can make go live in an instant, while publishing the domain whenever they feel comfortable. If using a developer, it may take a lot more time to go live as they will want to perfect their craft as it will be a reflection of their business.
Do DIY websites provide challenges?
It’s important to recognise that while many of the technical aspects, like coding and other elements, are no longer a barrier for people, there can still be various challenges that can be met.
Creating a website can still be a complex task, despite the fact that DIY website builders have made it easier than ever. Users must still have a certain level of computer literacy and skills when building a site, as there may be certain tasks or requirements that must be met. Additionally, some platforms may be somewhat restrictive in terms of what can be achieved, such as the placement of an image or content.
With the popularity of these website builders, there is a chance that a newly created website looks outdated and old-fashioned. Although platforms can offer several different templates to choose from, if a popular or recommended one is chosen, it may mean the site starts to look generic compared to others using the same builder. It reduces the personalised aspect that could be achieved when using an expert designer.
At the same time, DIY websites will require individuals to have knowledge in other areas, such as search engine optimisation (SEO). This is a crucial component when trying to achieve exposure. DIY platforms will offer a basic level of assistance regarding these measures. Still, it will not be nearly enough to rank highly, especially when trying to outperform competition in a competitive market like Alberta.
DIY website builders are brilliant but can be a challenge
Many Canadians have begun to turn to DIY website builders when creating their own online footprint, and it’s not surprising. They provide several benefits and can make life very easy for those who wish to get started in a timely manner.
However, it’s essential to realise that they come with challenges. While coding skills are not required, other skills may be needed. Still, for many: no code, no problem.
