One of the most common questions I’m asked by potential clients when enquiring about web design services, is ‘what’s the difference between a static site and content managed site?’

In short, nothing really to the visitors of the site. However, there is a big difference the owner of the site.

Both types of website style, provide the same function – they sell your business services / products. Regardless of whether a client chooses a simple brochure website design or a full e-commerce solution, the look and feel of the site requires the same level of design effort.

What makes the content managed site more costly up front, is the installation, configuration and set-up time. Not to mention the additional time required for training clients in how to maintain their new toy!

A static website (or brochure website) will have fixed content. This content is created at the time of the design process, and as the site goes live – the content is fixed. One advantage of static website design is that every page can be different if desired, to match the layout to different content, and the designer is free to put in any special effects that a client may ask for in a unique way on different pages. The main disadvantage is scalability – any new pages need to be created from scratch, by the owner of the site or, by the design company (normally at a cost).

A content managed website design allows clients to manage their own website content, add new content and take full ownership of what does into their website. An example of a content managed system is the Open Source framework – Joomla. This a modular based framework which means scalability is simple. There are many components and modules available to be used with a Joomla content managed site, and this allows for greater functionality to client’s websites. Content managed websites usually are themed. This means that throughout the site there is a common look and feel. Further design work is required to create additional themes, should a client want a different look across some of their content. Although the cost is generally higher for a content managed solution, the ongoing costs associated with maintenance, updates etc. are greatly reduced due to the fact clients control the content themselves via administrator pages.

In summary, if your looking for a simple website that advertises you on the web and allows your potential customers to view a bit about you and contact you – then a static site is probably the way to go. If you’re looking to add content i.e. blog or latest news, sell products, update exisiting services or galleries, or even just keep on top of your Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) – then a content managed website is something for you to consider.

Chocolate Lime offer both Static and a Content Managed Website Design Service