What is your process for hosting client websites outside of Webflow to increase revenue and make your agency more profitable, especially for non-CMS websites? Can you please provide information on where you host it, the disadvantages of doing this, and any other considerations to keep in mind? Additionally, if you recommend using another CMS for external hosting, what CMS would you suggest for someone who has only worked with Webflow?
When it comes to hosting client websites outside of Webflow, there are indeed a few considerations to keep in mind in order to increase revenue and profitability for your agency, especially for non-CMS websites. Here's a process you can follow, along with some important factors to consider:
1. Choosing a hosting provider: Look for a reliable hosting provider that offers a good balance between performance, reliability, security, and cost-effectiveness. Popular options include providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS), DigitalOcean, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), or even more specialized WordPress hosting providers like WP Engine or Flywheel. Evaluate the specific needs of each client project to determine which hosting provider is the best fit.
2. Server infrastructure: Determine the appropriate server infrastructure for your client's website. This could range from a simple shared hosting environment to a virtual private server (VPS) or even a dedicated server, depending on the website's requirements. Consider factors like traffic volume, expected scalability needs, and any specific technical requirements the project may have.
3. Website migration: Migrating the website from Webflow to the new hosting environment will require some technical expertise. You'll need to export the website's code, assets, and database (if applicable) from Webflow, and then deploy it to the new hosting provider. Be sure to thoroughly test the migrated website to ensure all functionality is preserved and there are no issues.
4. DNS configuration: You'll need to configure the domain name system (DNS) settings to point the domain to the new hosting provider. This typically involves updating the nameservers or creating appropriate DNS records. While this step is relatively straightforward, it's important to double-check the configuration to avoid any downtime or misdirected traffic.
Disadvantages of hosting client websites outside of Webflow:
1. Loss of Webflow's CMS: If the client was using Webflow's CMS features, migrating to another hosting provider would mean losing the ability to manage and update content through Webflow's interface. You'll need to find an alternative CMS or implement a custom content management system to provide content editing capabilities to clients.
2. Increased maintenance responsibility: By hosting the websites externally, you become responsible for their ongoing maintenance, security updates, performance optimization, and backups. This can add additional workload and potential costs to your agency, especially if clients expect ongoing support.
Considering an alternate CMS for external hosting:
If you're only experienced with Webflow but looking for an alternate CMS for external hosting, there are several options worth exploring:
1. WordPress: WordPress is a widely-used and versatile CMS that offers a vast ecosystem of themes, plugins, and integrations. It's relatively easy to learn if you have a background in Webflow, and there are multiple hosting providers specializing in WordPress.
2. Craft CMS: Craft CMS is a powerful, user-friendly CMS that offers great flexibility and control over website design and development. It has a strong developer community and a reputation for solid performance.
3. Statamic: Statamic is a flat-file CMS that provides a lightweight and efficient solution. It offers a high degree of customization and is known for its simplicity and ease of use.
Ultimately, the choice of CMS will depend on your specific project requirements, client needs, and your level of expertise or willingness to learn a new system.