Why Wix Website Builder May Not Be For You

There are many advantages to using Wix website builder. It is not that expensive and offers options for experienced web designers and complete novices. However, there are a number of flaws associated with Wix too and in this article we uncover these issues in order to provide a balanced view of what is an exceedingly popular website builder. Since 2006, Wix has been used by approximately 25 million people so clearly, the following limitations have not prevented the company from becoming a resounding success.

• Functionality: As websites created with Wix are Flash, there are a number of problems when it comes to functionality. For instance, Wix websites are not mobile friendly and cannot be viewed on an iPhone, Android, iPad or Blackberry device. Given the explosion in the popularity of smartphones and mobile browsing, this can significantly reduce a site's effectiveness. You also need to upgrade to a premium account just to get your own domain name and add Google Analytics.

• SEO: While Wix allows you to add meta data to improve website visibility, this feature is undermined by the fact that search engine spiders have great difficulty finding and reading Flash websites in the first place. Do a quick keyword search relating to your industry and you'll find that little or no Flash websites appear in the top page.

• Browser Issues: Wix users have reported real problems with browser compatibility. For example, they find that their website can be viewed on Internet Explorer and Safari but not on Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. It is important to remember that Internet users utilize different browsers so if your website is not compatible with all of them, you are automatically losing a substantial number of potential visitors.

• Annoying Advertising: If you are using the free version of Wix, you will find that an advertising toolbar will be located on the bottom of the screen. The only way to get rid of it is to upgrade to a premium account. Of course this is deliberate as Wix use it to advertise their services. It is a convenient way to make money off those who don't currently pay to use Wix.

• Customer Support: There have been a number of reports that Wix's customer service is far from professional. Well known websites such as RipOffReport carry a litany of complaints about the slow reply time of Wix and the apparent rudeness of the staff on phone calls. There are accusations that Wix's customer support team is not that patient with those who lack design skills. This is in direct contrast to the company's public stance which is to help people of all skill levels achieve their dream of building a professional website. It also appears as if the standard of customer support received directly relates to the amount of money a customer has spent on a Wix website.

Wix customer reviews indicate that Wix is certainly an excellent website builder and the ideal choice for those searching for a professional standard website without the need to learn about programming and coding. However, its free version has many flaws and customers really need to upgrade to get the best of Wix. In addition, it is not particularly SEO or mobile friendly which is a real issue.