Static or Dynamic? Which One Should I Choose?

What are static websites?

A static website is one that has individual web pages stored on the server, usually coded in html or XHTML format.

Simple websites, such as classic website, a five-page website or a brochure website are often static websites, because they present pre-defined, static information to the user. This may include information about a company and its products and services via text and photos.

Static websites can only really be updated by someone with a knowledge of website development. Static websites are the cheapest to develop and host, and many smaller companies still use these to get a web presence.

Similar to handing out a printed brochure to customers or clients, a static website will generally provide consistent, standard information for an extended period of time. Although the website owner may make updates periodically, it is a manual process to edit the text, photos and other content and may require basic website design skills and software and would probably be maintained by a web design firm.

Advantages of static websites

• Quick to develop. Most sites can be developed in about a week.
• Affordable. Most sites (depending on options) cost under $1000.
• Cheap to host. Hosting plans start at $9.95 per month for a basic, static website.
• Perfect for start-ups or small business that need only a limited number of pages.

Disadvantages of static websites

• Requires web development expertise to update site (usually resulting in purchasing a maintenance contract from a web firm).
• Limited number of pages.
• Content can get stagnant

What Are Dynamic Websites?

Dynamic sites on the other hand can be more expensive to develop initially, but the advantages are numerous. At a basic level, a dynamic website can give the website owner the ability to simply update and add new content to the site. For example, news and events could be posted to the site through a simple browser interface. Dynamic features of a site are only limited by imagination. Some examples of dynamic website features could be: content management system, e-commerce system, bulletin / discussion boards, intranet or extranet facilities, ability for clients or users to upload documents, ability for administrators or users to create content or add information to a site (dynamic publishing).

Advantages of dynamic websites

• Much more functional website that can contain an unlimited number of "pages" (called "articles")
• Much easier to update via an administrative login. Updating is as simple as working in Microsoft Word.
• New, fresh content brings people back to the site and helps in the search engines.
• Can work as a system to allow staff or users to collaborate

Disadvantages of dynamic websites

• Slower, more expensive to develop
• Hosting costs a little more

Summary

Many sites from the last decade are static, but more and more people are realising the advantages of having a dynamic website. Dynamic websites can make the most of your site and either use it as a tool or create a professional, interesting experience for your visitors.