8 Different Types of Websites

The Internet has forever changed the way we do business.  Businesses are networking better than they ever could before due to social networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.  Just 20 short years ago we were looking through books to find addresses of sites that offered files that could be downloaded using the latest in file sharing technology:  FTP.  In those days, there were no GUI (Graphical User Interface) websites, no pop-ups or ads to get in the way, no search engines, and Java was an exotic island in Indonesia.

Today, we can easily identify eight different types of websites available on the Internet since the inception of the basic informational website which appeared in the early years.

1. Informational Websites

As mentioned above, information-based websites were the first versions to hit the Internet.  They are as they sound – sites which enable readers to find information on a particular business or topic. Today, these are the most basic of sites, so extreme care should be taken with copywriting and visuals, because what they lack in bells and whistles, they need to make up for in quality content.

2. Brochure/Catalogue Style Websites

This kind of website goes further in depth than an informational site and provides general information about a store as well as the stock they carry and the prices. Don’t confuse this kind of site with a web shop – it is better suited for products that are specialized or require unique quotations. Call to Actions (CTAs) are super important on Brochure sites because you are asking the customer to take an extra step to contact or come see you.

3. E-Commerce Websites

E-Commerce websites take brochure websites a step further by allowing you to shop directly from your computer.  The main difference between a brochure site and an e-commerce site is that the latter features a checkout system to enable you to order directly from the online store. There are a number of plugins and pre-built options available, and your shopping cart choice depends greatly on your specific product and business. Show me the money!

4. Blogs

Blogging websites (originally known as ‘web logs’) did not hit the mainstream until the early to mid 2000s.  However, blogging has become very popular for both business and personal use. Blogs are great to establish expertise, display a story or concept, and reach the reader (end user) in a personal way. Blogs also translate intrinsically to Social Media, so if you are starting a Blog, make certain Social Media is an essential part of your growth strategy.

5. Personal Websites

Personal websites are similar to that of a personal blog, where an individual in all likelihood will have their own personal domain.  These are created by friends and families to share their information and pictures online with each other allowing for people to keep in contact. More recently, people have started to use these to demonstrate skill sets or create interactive resumes that really work to set them apart.

6. Social Media and Networking Websites

More popular than ever, online forums and social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn are used on a daily basis to spread the word about businesses and keep in touch with family and friends. Not just for posting pictures of kids and cats, these sites offer great targeted advertising and growth opportunities for small, consumer-based businesses. Buttons and links to your Social Media pages should be included and defined in your web-build spec.

7. Photo Sharing Websites

Great for those in the photographic industry, these sites allow for individuals to upload and share photographs online.

8. Mobile Device Websites

Now called “responsive sites”. As technology develops, so is the variety of new websites appearing online.  The latest is the creation of websites for viewing on mobile devices and mobile phones. But seriously – any website you build today simply must be mobile friendly, aka ‘responsive’. There are a number of factors to consider when building a responsive site, so make sure you are working with an experienced designer.