Due to the explosive internet growth over the last 10 years, many individuals and businesses are looking to build a website. Anyone looking to create a website needs a fast, effective, and reliable program to develop the proper code. We like wordpress websites because it helps with cms and most clients can figure it out on the back end.
There are two main categories of design programs to build a website: programs to build a site from scratch, and tools the use pre-built programming to help you build a website. Build from scratch programs assist the user in writing the actual code for their website, including HTML, CSS, and some scripts such as Javascript. Pre-built programming, also known as content management systems, have all of the necessary coding in place. Users then use an admin interface to customize the site to their liking.
1. Dreamweaver
The most popular, and powerful, website design tool is Dreamweaver. Dreamweaver is distributed by Adobe software, and is designed to help novices and professionals alike build a website. It includes code editing capabilities as well as a What You See Is What You Get, or WYSIWYG editor. Dreamweaver users should have a basic knowledge of HTML and file structures to effectively build a website. A free 30 day trial of Dreamweaver is available from the Adobe website to allow new users a full featured “test drive” before you buy.
2. Microsoft Expressions Web
Another build from scratch website design program is Microsoft Expression Web. Expression Web is distributed by Microsoft, and is a similar program in function to Dreamweaver. Expression Web also has a free 60 day trial available for download from the Microsoft official website.
3. WordPress
Wordpress is the most popular content management systems to build a website. It is easy to install, easy to use, and is widely supported throughout the internet. These are also thousands of themes and plugins that allow users to easily build a powerful and effective website. Most new users find WordPress very easy to learn.
4. Drupal
Drupal is another very popular content management system widely used to build websites. Drupal is similar to WordPress in that is provides a coding foundation for your site. It is, however, more complex and advanced that WordPress. Many advanced designers user Drupal for professional design.
5. Joomla
Joomla is another content management system that is widely used in new website production. Joomla is similar to Drupal and offers thousands of templates and plug-ins for complete customization. Some users say Joomla is more difficult to learn, but many users easily learn how to use this content management system quickly.
Wordpress, Drupal, and Joomla are open-source software. This means they are available for free download and installation on your server for free. Each of these programs has a vibrant support community and help tools available from a variety of online sources.