Our Tech Stacks Explained

Static vs Dynamic

Most websites can be classified as either static or dynamic. Static sites are essentially just folders that live on a computer (server) somewhere far away. When you visit a site, your browser makes HTTP requests for an HTML file in that folder along with any linked CSS or JavaScript files. Static sites don’t necessarily need to be connected to databases or run any complex logic prior to serving the assets. They’re just directories with pre-compiled HMTL that can be hosted anywhere on the internet — all you need is an IP address.

On the other hand, dynamic sites like those created with WordPress or page builders utilize databases and server-side code. The code needs to run on some kind of computer in order to assemble the web pages before sending them to your browser. This approach allows for the tailoring of content to each user on each request but it can result in slower load times and vulnerability to attacks.

Dynamic site builders include WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, GoDaddy, and more. While they offer ease of use and low price tags, they come with significant drawbacks compared to the static sites we build.

Page speed and Google

Google’s ranking system is heavily influenced by the speed and performance of your website, especially on mobile devices. Dynamic websites like those built with WordPress or Wix often face a slowdown because the server needs time to check the database and piece together the webpage. The more plugins and additional elements you add, the slower it becomes. This is a critical issue as studies indicate that a majority of users will abandon a site if it takes longer than three seconds to load. Thus, if your website exceeds this limit, it risks losing a significant portion of its potential audience. This stands out as one of the major drawbacks of platforms like WordPress and Wix, potentially costing you customers and revenue.

On the other hand, static sites offer a solution. They can load up to ten times faster than dynamic websites because they don’t require the intricate “surgery” of piecing web pages together on the server. Everything is prebuilt, resulting in an efficient and streamlined loading process. There are no plugins or databases causing bloat, and the code is meticulously organized for readability, which Google appreciates.

Our sites load in less than 0.5 seconds, vastly outperforming the average. These load times help retain visitors but they also enhance your website’s Google ranking. Google’s recent Mobile First Indexing update underscores the importance of mobile site speed in determining rankings, an area where static sites excel.

Mobile-first development is increasingly becoming the norm. The mobile-first approach situates mobile code at the file’s outset. When loading on a mobile device, the browser immediately processes mobile styling rather than converting desktop styles to mobile. This method eases content adaptation to available space, resulting in faster, more responsive websites. The synergy of mobile-first programming with static site development yields remarkable speed improvements that can astonish users.

Security

Dynamic websites are vulnerable to attacks due to their databases and server-side platforms. Hackers can exploit these entry points as the server constructs the site for browsers. In contrast, static sites offer zero attack surface. With no databases, session tokens, or data transmission, they lack avenues for interference or interception.

WordPress sites, in particular, face security risks due to extensive plugin usage. Neglecting updates can expose vulnerabilities, potentially causing site malfunctions. Keeping up with these updates can be time-consuming. Static sites eliminate this need for security patching because there’s nothing to patch.

Regarding server security, our static sites are hosted on Content Delivery Networks (CDNs). CDNs are secure by definition — they’re not like traditional servers which have entry points that need to be guarded. A CDN is one big entry point for publically accessible assets. You can’t run code on a CDN so there’s nothing to hack. What’s more, they operate across multiple servers globally, ensuring continuous access. Even if one server falters, another takes over, minimizing downtime.

The Advantages of Custom Code

Custom static websites consistently outperform page builders like WordPress and Wix. They load in milliseconds, ensuring superior speed compared to the multiple seconds taken by WordPress or Wix sites. Their simplicity offers robust protection against hacking and compromise. Wix and WordPress promote free website creation thus attracting small businesses due to budget constraints. However, if you value page speed, loading times, security, customer conversion, and Google rankings, engaging a professional to craft a static website will always be a better option.

Although it’s possible to create exceptional custom WordPress sites, WordPress excels when you need databases and dynamic content. In contrast, static sites primarily serve information, remaining unchanging, making them perfect for informational websites. WordPress isn’t the ideal tool for purely informational sites; it’s like using a jackhammer to drive in a nail. There’s a good chance that more than half of your competition uses WordPress. Many developers or agencies charge high fees for creating basic WordPress sites that could have been static. Finding a reputable developer or agency may require some effort but is well worth it.

You Get What You Pay For

At the end of the day, you get what you pay for. Opting for a $300 website from platforms like Craigslist or Fiverr will not turn out well. And while cheap and quick website-building options abound, they rarely yield great websites. At worst, they reflect a lack of quality and effort. Investing in a well-crafted website is crucial for your business’s success because it speaks volumes to your business’ credibility.

Ultimately, the choice between static and dynamic sites hinges on your budget and priorities. If budget constraints limit your options and you merely need an online presence, WordPress or Wix may suffice. However, if you possess the budget to enhance your online presence, investing in a static site offers the best return on investment.

Our business model eliminates the need to choose between DIY solutions and high-priced developers. Our approach provides small businesses with affordable web development services, backed by a team dedicated to handling your web presence while you focus on daily operations. Our minimal upfront costs are possible because of our unique situation as a designer/developer married couple with few operating expenses and no employees. Our aim is to build websites that stand the test of time and contribute to your business’s growth, accompanying you every step of the way.