Static Websites
A static website doesn’t change unless a website developer modifies the code. This might be when they need to update their contact number. Everyone who visits sees the same website- the same homepage, about page, services page, no matter what time of day or where they are viewing from.1
Benefits
- Little everyday maintenance. The content remains the same until it is updated.
- Faster loading speed. The website doesn’t have to contact the back-end system every time a web page loads.
- Accommodates any kind of user traffic2
Disadvantages
- Usually lack components such as logins and real time notifications.
- User interactivity is limited. This discourages user retention.
- Can be time consuming and prone to technical errors. Each time a new component is added, the entire website must be rebuilt and redeployed to the server.3
Dynamic Websites
Dynamic websites’ content and data is all organised in a database, or Content Management System which connects to the webpages. How and when content is revealed on a page depends on the way the information is arranged and connected to the site’s design controls. This means dynamic websites can have personalised content for different users. It also allows for changes to be made to the website at any time. Modifications to one dynamic page can be automatically made across any number of pages.4
Benefits
- Easy to add new elements. Adding new content to the website as dynamic websites can be updated easily and quickly
- Easy to redesign entire website. Site-wide changes to design can be made instantly. If you want a new colour theme or choice of font, it’s a lot easier to change this on a dynamic website. Usually one click is made and the whole website has the change, unlike a static website where each page would have to be changed individually.
- More interactive. A dynamic website can allow for personalised user experience. Logging into an account and personalised product suggestions are some great ways to incorporate user personalisation.5
Disadvantages
- Prone to slow load times. The server processes user input and then renders the result page.
- Can be costly. Creating a dynamic website requires technically skilled programmers who understand how to build a website.
- Database and server must be purchased6
References
1Ballen Brands. (2021). Static vs. Dynamic Websites: What’s the Difference?. Available: https://ballenbrands.com/static-vs-dynamic-websites-whats-the-difference/ . Last accessed 15th Dec 2021.
2Priya Pedamkar. (Anon). Static Website. Available: https://www.educba.com/static-website/ . Last accessed 15th Dec 2021.
3Amar Nath. (2019). Advantages And Disadvantages Of Static Vs Dynamic Websites. Available: https://muddoo.com/tutorials/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-static-vs-dynamic-
websites/#:~:text=%20Disadvantages%20Of%20A%20Static%20Website%20%201,are%20usually%20missing
%20in%20static%20websites.%2 . Last accessed 15th Dec 2021.
4Wix. (2021). Static vs Dynamic Websites: The Differences, Advantages and Which to Use. Available: https://www.wix.com/blog/2021/11/static-vs-dynamic-website/ . Last accessed 15th Dec 2021
5Surfaced Media. (2017). 5 BENEFITS OF CHOOSING DYNAMIC WEBSITE DESIGN. Available: https://www.surfacedmedia.com/5-benefits-of-choosing-dynamic-website-design/#:~:text=5%20Benefits%20of%20Choosing%20Dynamic%20Website%20Design%201,5%20A
%20Dynamic%20Website%20Looks%20More%20Profession . Last accessed 15th Dec 2021.
6TutorialsInhand. (Anon). Type of websites. Available: https://tutorialsinhand.com/tutorials/Web-Terminology/type-of-websites/dynamic-website.aspx . Last accessed 15th Dec 2021
