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DIY Web Builders vs Developers vs Website Services
Having a website dedicated to your radio station is essential. It can do so much more than simply being a spot to put your "listen live" button. It can provide you with unlimited opportunities to generate additional revenue by clients sponsoring the content you create and promote there.
Not so long ago, there would have been no question of hiring a pro to get the results you want, but thanks to the rise of website builders, it has become much easier for people with very little web experience to build a decent website. Just because you can, though, doesn’t always mean you should.
It All Starts with Content!
It’s obvious that there are major cost differences between DIY, developer, and services. Don’t let cost be the first thing you think of though. The first step in your decision process should be to decide what your website content will be. If you want a brochure website with a "listen live" button, then start with a DIY builder. Squarespace, Weebly, WordPress.com, and Wix are some popular choices. If you want to display news, events, and sellable banner ads, then you’ll need something more robust.
DIY/Page Builders:
Pros: Lowest initial cost, Easy to Publish, Beginner-friendly
Cons: Limited Customization, Pop-ups and Advertisements, Limited Customer Service, Difficult/impossible to transfer your content
Hiring A Developer:
Pros: Site designed the way you want, Experience, Communication
Cons: Costs More, It Takes Time, Communication Long Term
Avoid hiring developers overseas who will likely build your website the way you want for the agreed fee and then leave once the project is complete. This leaves you to deal with issues yourself or you’ll have to hire another developer to fix things.
Partnering with a Web Service:
Over the last 15-20 years, several companies have sprouted up that specifically offer radio station websites. Some companies to consider are Skyrocket Radio, SoCast, Intertech, Aiir, and LinkedUpRadio.
Pros: Payment Plans, Designed for you, Experience, Great Training, Ongoing Support/Communication
Cons: Can take time, Customer Service, Unwilling to Customize
Conclusion: Your station website is a visible brand for your radio station, so it should be given a high priority. It’s a revenue tool. If it looks like a kid designed your site, it will leave a bad impression on listeners and advertisers. If price is the considering factor, and time isn’t, then choose a website builder you can learn and be comfortable with. If you have a great relationship with a developer, that may be the way to go. The dedicated web service is the best option for stations wanting a great-looking and performing website leaving them to focus on content and revenue. The price is more than DIY, but you get a more professional product.
Need help with your website? We’re here to help!
View all episodes
By Jim Sherwood
5
11 ratings
Having a website dedicated to your radio station is essential. It can do so much more than simply being a spot to put your "listen live" button. It can provide you with unlimited opportunities to generate additional revenue by clients sponsoring the content you create and promote there.
Not so long ago, there would have been no question of hiring a pro to get the results you want, but thanks to the rise of website builders, it has become much easier for people with very little web experience to build a decent website. Just because you can, though, doesn’t always mean you should.
It All Starts with Content!
It’s obvious that there are major cost differences between DIY, developer, and services. Don’t let cost be the first thing you think of though. The first step in your decision process should be to decide what your website content will be. If you want a brochure website with a "listen live" button, then start with a DIY builder. Squarespace, Weebly, WordPress.com, and Wix are some popular choices. If you want to display news, events, and sellable banner ads, then you’ll need something more robust.
DIY/Page Builders:
Pros: Lowest initial cost, Easy to Publish, Beginner-friendly
Cons: Limited Customization, Pop-ups and Advertisements, Limited Customer Service, Difficult/impossible to transfer your content
Hiring A Developer:
Pros: Site designed the way you want, Experience, Communication
Cons: Costs More, It Takes Time, Communication Long Term
Avoid hiring developers overseas who will likely build your website the way you want for the agreed fee and then leave once the project is complete. This leaves you to deal with issues yourself or you’ll have to hire another developer to fix things.
Partnering with a Web Service:
Over the last 15-20 years, several companies have sprouted up that specifically offer radio station websites. Some companies to consider are Skyrocket Radio, SoCast, Intertech, Aiir, and LinkedUpRadio.
Pros: Payment Plans, Designed for you, Experience, Great Training, Ongoing Support/Communication
Cons: Can take time, Customer Service, Unwilling to Customize
Conclusion: Your station website is a visible brand for your radio station, so it should be given a high priority. It’s a revenue tool. If it looks like a kid designed your site, it will leave a bad impression on listeners and advertisers. If price is the considering factor, and time isn’t, then choose a website builder you can learn and be comfortable with. If you have a great relationship with a developer, that may be the way to go. The dedicated web service is the best option for stations wanting a great-looking and performing website leaving them to focus on content and revenue. The price is more than DIY, but you get a more professional product.
Need help with your website? We’re here to help!