Heights Libraries offers classes on two different ways to build websites. Weebly uses a drag-and-drop editor to create professional looking websites. WordPress is primarily a blog platform, but can be used to build a variety of websites, including the library’s!
Let’s compare the two:
- Both offer free options. These web addresses end in .weebly.com or .wordpress.com.
- For more features and your own domain name, fees range from $8-$49/month for Weebly and $3-$25/month for WordPress.
- Both offer a wide variety of professionally created themes or ways that your website can look.
- Neither requires special software to be installed on your computer. All you need is a computer, an internet connection, and an email address! Both Weebly and WordPress offer apps for your smartphone, so you can keep up with your site on the go.
They sound virtually the same! How can I pick?
There are differences between the two platforms:
- Weebly allows you to drag and drop website parts to create your own unique site without any prior experience.
- WordPress is set up for blogging immediately.
- WordPress has over 350 themes. Weebly has around 100.
- WordPress is open source. That means anyone can develop new tools and add-ons that are available to others.
- Weebly charges a 3% processing fee on online stores unless you pay for a more expensive package. WordPress has many open source store options that don’t require a fee, but may create more work for you.
- WordPress offers more bang for your buck – paid options are cheaper and offer far more tools and benefits than Weebly if you need more than the basic free options.
So there are some differences…which one should I choose?
It really depends on the type of website you want to build:
- For a simple, professional website, Weebly may be the best option for you.
- If you are planning on starting a blog, willing to pay a little more, or want more powerful options, check out WordPress.
Ultimately, it’s up to you! The best way is simply to try it out for yourself.
To sign up for a Weebly account:
- Open an internet browser, such as Google Chrome.
- Type weebly.com into the address bar, then press the Enter key
- Click on Sign Up.
- Type in the Full name and Email address in the appropriate boxes.
- Choose an easy to remember password at least 8 characters long
- Type the password into the Password box. Click the blue Sign Up button.
To sign up for a WordPress account:
- Open an internet browser, such as Google Chrome.
- Type wordpress.com into the address bar, then press the Enter key.
- Click on the Get Started button.
- Select the type of website you want to create.
- Select a theme.
- Select a domain name. This is the web address others will use to visit your website.
- Choose a plan. You can always upgrade your plan later, so I recommend selecting free.
- Type in your email address, choose a username, and select a password (at least 6 characters in length).
- Click on the blue Create My Account button.
The four-part WordPress series begins on Monday, April 3 at 7 pm. Registration opens on March 20.
The four-part Weebly series begins on Monday, May 1 at 7 pm. Registration opens on April 17.
Sign-up for these and any other computer classes at heightslibrary.org or by calling (216) 932-3600.
