Websites are a vital component of a successful business, but they have other uses. There are many different types of websites that you could build, and often, choosing the right one for you isn’t an easy task. Researching each type can be overwhelming for some, so to help you understand more, we have summarized the most popular and explained how they could work for you.
Blogs
A blog acts as an online journal, or as an informational page. It usually gets updated regularly and can cover any topic. Blogs are normally written in an informal, chatty style. While most businesses add a blog to their company website, blogging has also become a popular way to make money online.
Brochure and Corporate
Brochure and corporate websites can be compared to a digital business card, and for this reason they are popular among small businesses. Both can be used to provide people with information about your business, and can provide customers with information on how to contact you. You cannot sell directly through this type of website.
Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding allows people to raise money for a venture or project from a number of different donators. You will need to create a video to pitch your project, set a target of money you want to raise, and a deadline. Crowdfunding websites are especially popular with new startups.
eCommerce
eCommerce websites are also known as online stores. These are ideal for people who want to sell products or services. Combining them with payment processors, you can take online payments from customers. eCommerce sites can function as a standalone website, or they can be combined with a corporate website or a blog.
Educational and Portals
Educational websites are used to display information on certain topics and to teach people through fun tools, quizzes and games. Portals are more professional and tend to be used by schools, institutions and business. They are usually set up with a private login so that only those registered can access the content provided.
News and Magazines
News and magazine websites have different purposes. The sole purpose of a news website is to inform readers and to update them on current affairs, whereas the main focus of a magazine website is to focus on entertainment. These websites work great for journalists looking to build an online presence.
Portfolio
An online portfolio works in the same way as a physical portfolio as they are used to present and promote examples of work you have done in the past. This type of website can act as a resume, which demonstrates your skills to impress people of interest. They are popular among those in the creative industry.
Social Media and Forums
Social media sites can take many forms. They are normally created for people who want to share their thoughts, ideas, and images, or to connect with people about certain topics, which are similar to forums. Unlike forums, social media sites are a popular destination to catch up on the latest news.
TV/Video Streaming
Streaming sites have become extremely popular and have changed the way we watch television. They can be used to watch films, series and documentaries, or to catch-up on live TV. You can watch what you want, when you want.
There are so many types website out there and each website offers a different purpose to the user. Your choice will depend on what you have to offer, your personal preference, and the primary use of the website.