What should be compared first?
The customer journey should be compared first. A brochure website, shop and booking business need different capabilities. Write the required actions before comparing theme galleries or advertised plan prices.
How do maintenance responsibilities differ?
Hosted builders manage their platform infrastructure. Self-hosted WordPress needs an explicit arrangement for hosting, updates and backups. Hosted does not mean every third-party integration or content change is automatically supported.
How is a choice validated?
A choice is validated by testing representative tasks and checking current terms. Edit a page, complete the enquiry or purchase journey and review export options. A platform demonstration is more useful than a generic claim that one system is best for everyone.
What should you record before making a decision?
Record the requirements and evidence relevant to this question before accepting a proposal. Distinguish the work needed at launch from ongoing responsibilities. A clear written scope gives both the business and the supplier an agreed basis for review.
- Content editing
- Required commerce or booking features
- Maintenance and account control
- Recurring charges and portability
Sources and further reading
Related reading