The True Cost of Website Builders


Episode 002 – May 2, 2024

In a digital landscape dominated by promises of simplicity and affordability, the true cost of website builders like Wix, Squarespace, and Elementor often remains concealed beneath their user-friendly interfaces. In the latest installment of DIGICAST, hosts Andrew and Sarah peel back the layers of convenience to reveal the hidden risks and pitfalls associated with these popular platforms. From the unseen complexities of messy code to the looming threat of content ownership relinquishment, this episode serves as a beacon of insight for businesses navigating the treacherous waters of website building in the modern age.

In this eye-opening episode of DIGICAST, Andrew and Sarah shed light on the often underestimated risks associated with using website builders like Wix, Squarespace, and Elementor. Despite their initial appeal of affordability and ease of use, these platforms come with hidden costs that can significantly impact a business’s online presence. The hosts delve into various aspects, from the messy and bloated code generated by these platforms to the lack of custom and advanced features that businesses may require as they grow.

Andrew and Sarah emphasize the importance of understanding the true implications of using website builders, particularly in terms of website performance and search engine optimization. They highlight Google’s preference for clean, well-structured code and discuss how the messy code generated by website builders can lead to penalties and lower rankings in search results. Additionally, the hosts stress the risk of relinquishing control over content ownership when using these platforms, urging businesses to consider the long-term consequences of their choices.

Throughout the episode, Andrew and Sarah provide valuable insights and practical advice for businesses navigating the complexities of the digital landscape. From encouraging listeners to use tools like Google’s PageSpeed Insight to evaluate their website’s performance to advocating for investments in custom-built websites or platforms that prioritize content ownership and advanced features, the hosts empower businesses to make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals and success in the digital realm.