A simple explanation can be found here: Q: How much does a website cost?
I work much like a GC (general contractor) for construction. My primary goal has always been to be a great coder, and along the way I have learned that being a good GC also means being good at every job my sub-contractors might have to do. If someone leaves the job site or is not available I often need to be able to finish their job! There are a few analogies I could use here to keep thing simple…
Websites are built by experienced professionals.
| New Website | New Home | New Car |
|---|---|---|
| Manager | Foreman | Engineer |
| Graphic Designer | Interior Designer | Vehicle Designer |
| Developer | Carpenter | Mechanic |
| Database Administrator | Blueprint Architect | Systems Controller |
| Content/Copy Writer | Home Electrician | Auto electrician |
Websites are built using digital materials.
| New Website | New Home | New Car |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Furnishing | Extras |
| Templates | Pre-built or Trailer | Car Kit |
| CMS system | Furnace+AC | Engine |
| Graphics, Code & Content, ect… | Concrete, Wood & Materials, ect… | Steel, Rubber & Electrical, ect… |
Websites require component maintenance.
| New Website | New Home | New Car |
|---|---|---|
| Hosting | Property upkeep | Parking |
| Domain Name | Registered Address | License Plate |
| System updates | Home Improvement | Regular Maintenance |
| Enhancements | Replacements | Fluid Changes |
Website bottom line estimates.
| New Website | New Home | New Car |
|---|---|---|
| Build Range: 15-250K | Build Range: 15-250K | Build Range: 15-250K |
| Monthly (maintain): 1-10k | Monthly (maintain): 1-10k | Monthly (maintain): 1-10k |
| Yearly (additional): 1-50k | Yearly (additional): 1-50k | Yearly (additional): 1-50k |
| Finance monthly: 175-2500 | Finance monthly: 175-2500 | Finance monthly: 175-2500 |
From here the real cost of a site becomes evident! Long after the architect and engineer are out of the equation of your home or vehicle there are still taxes to be paid, gasoline to be bought, warranty and insurance to consider and so forth. The time commitment is also important!
Websites can be treats or tricks.
In the bigger picture there are indeed many other analogies to consider, some of which will reduce cost, others will increase it – here are a few!
| New Website | New Home | New Car |
|---|---|---|
| Buggy CMS Template | Bad Foundation | Lemon |
| Community | Rental | Lease |
| Animation & interactivity | Gold on the ceiling | Chrome & custom paint |
| SEO, SEM, SM and Campaigns | Lawn care, Upkeep, Plumbing | Scheduled mile maintenance |
| Hackers, Data loss | Arson, Break ins | Theft, Accidents |