Static or Dynamic Websites. Which should you choose?

Are you about to design a website? But you’re not sure what you want out of it? Then you may have to learn about the key difference between static and dynamic websites.

Static Websites

Web pages that don’t offer interactive content are static.

Static websites are so simple, they are written only in HTML.

Nothing fancy, just flat and easy.

Dynamic Websites

You will find a lot of interactive content

This content is managed by using extra elements along with plain HTML programming language.

Dynamic websites are more difficult to create.

To help you determine and understand whether you require a static or dynamic website, let’s begin with their main differences:

What are static websites?

Static websites cannot have pages added to them rather than the ones that have been already fixed. All of these pages have the same layout throughout. Since the content on these websites do not change when a user interacts with it, all the web pages look and act the same.

Static websites are perfect for providing information. They do not take up a lot of space on either end, yours or the user’s and the size is usually very low in kilobytes. Static websites are good for informational purposes, they cannot be used for E-Commerce stores or other large websites needs (that is for dynamic sites).

Static sites are ideal for people who do not have a lot of web pages in their project. It’s also best for people who do not need interactive content on their website. This means that if you go for a static website, you cannot add multimedia features and elements like videos, music, sound and other interactive features. Think of it as a flat 2D image.

If you’re a beginner, you will find static website creation very straightforward.

What are dynamic websites?

Dynamic websites can have many functions and interactive content. These websites are generally more engaging.

All of the content that goes onto a dynamic website can be interacted with by its audience. To make multimedia possible on dynamic websites, you need to know the script required along with HTML programming language. Think of dynamic functionality as a 3D image. More layers, more capabilities and more functionalities. it also doesn’t need to be that difficult, this blog you’re reading now… it is dynamic. It is stored in a database in the back end of the website, I have code that connects to that database and displays it on the front of the website (this page that you’re viewing right now) and guess what, you’re reading it!

So, what do you get from a dynamic website? A more engaging experience for your customers and a high end result.

Which one should you choose?

If you want a website that only provides basic information with minimal functionality, then a static website is a good choice.

You would need a dynamic website if you have a lot of content to showcase and need to make regular updates. If multimedia is the essence of your audience and your project, a dynamic website would be your pick.

When choosing between a static or dynamic website, be clear about:

Use copyright-free images for your website

You may need images especially for blog posts or for creating original designs.

If you are using images from the internet, you need to understand the Creative Commons License. All images under this license can be used freely. Or ensure to use licensed images if you have the right to do so. You can purchase these from many websites.

The purpose of your website

The budget at hand for a domain, hosting, security etc.

Other resources required (programmers, learning experience..)

Your long-term goal for the website

The audience you want to target

The number of pages on your website

Whether you will be upgrading or upsizing your website in the future

What functionalities and plugins you will require for your site

The final thought…

Understanding the project is the first step towards knowing whether you should choose a static website or a dynamic one. Make sure to have proper resources at hand before you get started.

Even if you outsource programmers for the website itself, learn some scripting and basic HTML to make the most out of your project!

You will have a clear idea whether you require a static or dynamic site after you review your project scope.

If it’s all too difficult, just get in touch with Ben at fun/serious!