by Aubrey Little

Created on: March 08, 2007   Last Updated: April 19, 2007

There is a wealth of software on the market for those wishing to design and/or build websites. As a professional designer I find that I like to use more than one tool. Each tool has its unique benefits as well as its drawbacks.

Like others, using a text editor can be a very effective way for a designer to make a great site, however this is not the best option for the average user who does not wish to learn how to physically code in HTML.

Many users are looking for a WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) editor. By using this software those with little or no HTML experience can effectively design a nice site. The options for software include Freeware, Shareware, and enterprise (you purchase the product outright).

The products that follow are examples only and do not represent an endorsement of any kind.

CoffeeCup offers both Freeware and Enterprise versions of their software. The freeware has limited capabilities. The full version is inexpensive and is a decent investment for those who want to be able to use WYSIWYG and dabble with HTML coding.

PersonalWebKit offers both a Freeware and an Enterprise version of their software. This program does not require any knowledge of HTML coding and provides automatic linking of pages within your site, which is a very handy feature for the novice designer.

Homestead provides an Enterprise version of their software but allows users to download an evaluation copy for a 30-day trial period. This software provides around 200 templates for users to select. Then it is simply a matter of personalising the pages for the site.

WebSite X5 is a relatively low-cost Enterprise solution that provides users with 5-steps to create a website. The program has a tutorial and does not require any HTML knowledge.

Macromedia Dreamweaver is now owned by Adobe and is one of the higher end Enterprise products. The price tag may be too high for those with a small budget, but the program is solid and has a good reputation.

Microsoft FrontPage is another one of the higher end Enterprise products. This program is being phased out by Microsoft. Users who want the most advanced Microsoft program will be taking advantage of a hybrid between FrontPage and SharePoint.

Freeware

WetPaint provides free web software as well as a place to host it. The program seems simple enough and walks you through the steps. This might be the answer for a beginner.

WebPlus is offered free by Serif software. The version offered provides templates and many advanced features for any user. They will ask if you wish to upgrade to the newest version, which will cost you a bit but not much for what the program is capable of providing.

Alleycode HTML Editor 2.16 is a freeware product with a lot to offer including a CSS (cascading style sheet) wizard, real-time views of pages and much more. This may be a product worth checking out.

Shareware

Antenna - Web Design Studio 2.7 is free to try for 16 days and costs around $60 USD. The program offers advanced features. Check out the product at Tucows to see the reviews.

Important things to remember:
1. Decide what the software will be used for.
2. Determine the desired ease of products (i.e.: do you want to code or just make things look nice?).
3. Decide on a price range and the features you wish to have.
4. Ensure the software is compatible with your operating system.
5. Take advantage of free trial periods before deciding to purchase more costly design software.

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