Many times, clients are faced with the dilema of choosing between developing a custom website or a Website As a Service (WAAS) or a “Pay as you Go” solutions such as a SaaS website. So which is better?

Well the simple truth is… it depends! There are several factors that business owners ought to consider before choosing. A few of these questions are:

Initial Software Cost

If you choose a custom website using an open source software (e.g. wordpress, XOOPS, etc), the initial software cost might be zero but if you are choosing a commercial software or WAAS, then you will be required to pay for the software.

Software Installation

If you will be hosting your custom website on your own or on a share hosting solution, then you either install it yourself pay someone to install it for you. With a WAAS solution, the software is installed for you.

Technical Support

If you developed your website with an open source software – since you didn’t pay for the software – there is no guarantee of technical support. You would have to rely on forums or hire an expert (often the person/organization). This is not ideal for mission critical websites or emergency situations.

Hosting

Custom website developed with Open Source software afford the owner the opportunity on hosting it with any hosting company of their choice. But usually commercial WAAS sites have to be hosted with the company providing the service.

Software Customization

Websites built with Open Source software – that have been customized to meet your immediate needs – are not easy to update/upgrade especially if new patches or updates are being released on a regular basis. This is however not the case with a WAAS solution as the website would be easily updated/upgraded with all the necessary patches.

Recurring Fees

Developing your website With open source software means there are no recurring fees for the software. But developing your website with a WAAS solution means you have to pay recurring fees for the hosting of the site and consulting fees.

So in conclusion, if you intend developing applications like databases (MySQL), or setting up web servers etc, then you can opt for Open Source Software. But if you are looking for a complete solution that frees you from the hassles of hosting, technical support, etc, then you can opt for a WAAS solution.

What – if any – has been your experience with a Custom Website and a WAAS? Feel free to comment below