How to Choose the Right Website Platform in 2026
Every few months a client comes to us having already signed up for a platform they're now stuck on — one that doesn't quite fit what they need. Choosing the wrong platform isn't just inconvenient, it can cost you thousands in switching costs down the line.
Here's how to choose the right one from the start.
Start With the Question: What Does Your Site Need to DO?
Not how it needs to look. Not how much you want to spend. What does it need to do?
- Sell products online → Shopify
- Marketing site with beautiful design, fast performance, easy content editing → Webflow
- Complex custom functionality, membership areas, large-scale blogging → WordPress
- Small local business site, budget-conscious, DIY-friendly → Squarespace or Wix (though we'd usually still recommend Webflow)
- SaaS or web app → Custom build (Next.js, etc.)
Think About Who Will Maintain It
Some platforms are built for developers. Others are built for non-technical users. Webflow sits in the middle — stunning designs that non-technical people can actually update after handover.
If your marketing team needs to publish blog posts, change offers, and update images regularly without calling a developer every time, that's a crucial requirement. Make sure your chosen platform supports it.
Consider the Total Cost, Not Just the Monthly Fee
WordPress is free to download, but hosting, premium plugins, a good theme, and developer support can easily cost more than a Webflow plan. Factor in: hosting, domain, SSL, plugins/apps, developer time, and ongoing maintenance.
Don't Choose Based on What Your Mate Uses
We've seen businesses run their e-commerce store on Webflow (which isn't built for serious e-commerce) because their mate 'swears by it'. And we've seen agencies build simple brochure sites on custom frameworks that take six months to deliver.
Match the tool to the job.
When in Doubt, Ask an Expert
Most reputable web agencies will give you a straight answer on platform choice — even if it means recommending a platform they don't prefer to build on. That's a sign of an agency that cares about your outcome.
We're happy to have that conversation. Get in touch with Dab Hand Marketing and we'll tell you exactly what platform makes sense for your business.
Book a free 45-minute
audit call with Harry
We'll look at your current site, talk through what needs improving, and see how we can help. If we can't, we'll point you somewhere that can.
