WordPress or Squarespace: choose around the requirements.

This guide compares a typical self-hosted WordPress implementation with a Squarespace website. WordPress hosting services and managed plans vary, so a particular supplier’s package may change the responsibilities described here.

Start with a requirements list: page types, who edits them, approved forms, integrations, redirects, language needs and future content. Test the important requirements before committing to a platform.

Check the actual site for useful service content, accessible rendering, internal links, metadata, indexing controls and mobile usability. An elaborate WordPress installation can perform poorly; a considered managed-platform site can serve a clear brief.

If a requirement involves custom routing, schema, an integration or a large content model, ask the developer to demonstrate how it will work in the chosen setup. Avoid assuming that installing an SEO plugin completes the work.

WordPress’s official documentation recommends a current backup before plugin updates. The practical question is who performs updates, checks the site and can recover from an issue.

Squarespace’s export documentation lists content that does and does not transfer. Treat a platform move as a content and functionality migration, not a promise that an exported file reproduces the finished website.

For either option, keep domain ownership, account access, assets and any third-party subscriptions documented. The handover should make ongoing responsibilities clear.

Build or inspect a representative service page, an article and the main enquiry flow. Test mobile reading, editing and the specific integration before deciding that the platform meets the brief.

Our web development service starts with those requirements. If an existing site is moving, the redesign service includes a migration plan where needed. The technical SEO scope explains the checks behind the search foundations.