Three possible ways to make your church website
Pros: Very cheap. If you have committed people in the church who know what they are doing and possess both technical and design skills (as well as a high level of commitment and plenty of time) you may have a good option.
Cons: Very variable results. Whilst there are a lot of people who are able to make a website, few possess the time to do it well. Teenagers and computer students may seem a prime candidate to give the website task to, but in reality they soon get busy doing other things and the site may end up horribly out of date. There is also the question of what to do if the person becomes unavailable or leaves the church.
Use an online "click ‘n’ build" system
Pros: In the last few years these systems have improved tremendously. They enable a non-technical administrator to set up and run the church website, normally requiring no training. Simply choose a suitable template (the look and feel of the site) and add content as easily as using a word processor.
Cons: Most systems have a set range of templates which means if you have a very precise design in mind you may be stuck, as they charge huge amounts to customize. Prices for these online builders range from a setup fee of $200 up to $3,000, all in addition to their monthly fees! Watch out for hidden costs especially on support calls. Some may charge a high cost per minute. You will require someone, or a group in the church to commit to keeping the system updated each month, and log on and make the changes.
Pay for a web design agency to create your church website
Pros: People who design websites day in day out are always able to make a successful website. If you simply want to be a part of your church and leave the website to someone you can trust, this is the best route for you.
Here at Friendly Church Websites, we write websites..... that's all we do. We understand web design, hosting, domain names, email and updating, so that you don't need to worry about it. All you need do is call or drop a quick email to us, and we will make sure your website is updated for your congregation, and for your site visitors.
We have combined the ease of a 'no hassle' monthly fee with custom website design. We feel this is a perfect blend of options for your church. We do not charge an initial setup fee to create your site, and all of that is included in the monthly fee. You don't have to worry about logging on and updating the site yourself, but simply call or drop us an email and we take care of it for you, all for one low, consistent monthly fee. Check out our affordable Pricing here.
Look at our Sample Sites, choose one, and let us know how you'd like it customized with your church graphics and information, and leave the rest to us.