Real cost of running your business online

Recently, we received feedback from a client expressing concern over the apparent high cost of using Webflow compared to the seemingly more economical option of WordPress. While the initial numbers may suggest a significant difference, a deeper examination reveals the importance of considering the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

The client in question highlighted that Webflow, as a low-code platform, appears to be more than four times costlier than WordPress. At first glance, this may raise eyebrows and prompt businesses to lean towards the seemingly more budget-friendly alternative. However, it's essential to delve into the intricacies of the TCO concept to make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives.

Total Cost of Ownership involves evaluating not only the upfront costs, such as licensing fees, but also factoring in the long-term expenses associated with development and maintenance. When comparing platforms like Webflow and WordPress, it's crucial to consider the efficiency they bring to the development process and the potential impact on the overall budget.

While WordPress is undoubtedly a popular and cost-effective choice, it often requires more manual coding and customisation to achieve specific design and functionality goals. This may lead to increased development hours, potentially resulting in higher expenses over the project's lifecycle. Webflow, on the other hand, with its low-code approach, offers a more streamlined development process. This efficiency can translate into direct cost savings by reducing the time and effort required for coding and implementation.

Moreover, the time-to-market factor should not be underestimated. In the world of business, time is money, and a quicker deployment can lead to faster returns on investment. Webflow's intuitive design interface allows for rapid development, potentially getting your website or application to market sooner than a more labor-intensive WordPress project. This can be a significant cost of opportunity savings, particularly in industries where being first to market matters.

Businesses need to weigh the upfront costs against the potential long-term savings and benefits. While the licensing fees for Webflow may appear higher, the efficiency gains in development, combined with a faster time to market, can result in a more favorable TCO when compared to the seemingly cost-effective WordPress option.

Furthermore, considering the ever-evolving nature of the digital landscape, it's crucial to factor in ongoing maintenance and updates. Webflow's managed hosting and automatic updates can reduce the burden on development teams, potentially saving additional costs in the long run.

In conclusion, the choice between Webflow and WordPress should not solely be based on the upfront costs of licenses. Businesses must carefully evaluate the Total Cost of Ownership, taking into account the efficiency gains, development effort, and time-to-market advantages offered by each platform. At Impactful Apps, we advocate for making informed decisions that align with your business goals and budget constraints. Choosing the right platform is not just about the price tag; it's about maximising the value and efficiency that a platform brings to your web development journey.