View Single Post
  #9 (permalink)  
Old 04-10-2007, 06:09 PM
MarcThai MarcThai is offline
WebProWorld Pro
 

Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: Thailand
Posts: 103
MarcThai RepRank 0
Default Re: Dynamic vs. Static

Quote:
Originally Posted by Roundabout
I maintain several web sites and have ideas for many more that I'd like to create. I often go back and forth between the pros and cons of creating a dynamic versus static site and would like opinions from others.

Static sites seem to require more work to maintain than dynamic sites but allow me to have complete control of the site. A dynamic site allows visitors to contribute by posting comments and such but comment spammers are also prevalent, which takes time to moderate.

I don't want to bore you with the details of the conundrum that I face but would like opinions about which is better to create: dynamic or static.
Before I try and answer your question, we need to clarify terms here. A dynamic site can be many things, and if it is designed well it can save you an awful lot of time.

You have defined a dynamic site as one that allows visitors to upload comments, so I assume you are talking about a public discussion forum type of site. Forum software like PHPBB will allow you to moderate comments and disapprove/delete them after posting. You have to log in and manage the comments manually.

There are, however, other types of dynamic sites. The most common type is a website with a Content Management System (CMS) backend linked to a database. Using the CMS, you can copy/paste text into an editing box and format it using an MS Word-type tool bar. You can also upload pictures and create links inside the content. If you need to control the layout, it's easy to insert a Table and place your content precisely where you want it.

There is no definitive answer to your question. Design your sites according to your, or your clients, needs. Static sites are good if you only have a small amount of content that does not need to change often.

CMS sites are great for managing larger sites, or sites that need to grow as the business grows.

PM me if you would like to discuss this in detail, and I can show you examples and explain how CMS sites work.
Reply With Quote