No-code tools like Webflow, Wix and Squarespace are making it easier than ever to create a website yourself, and it could be easy for you to assume that traditional web development is slowly becoming obsolete.
But while no-code platforms of course have their place, custom web development still matters, and often matters most for businesses looking to scale, stand out, or integrate deeply with their marketing and operations.
At Ascensor, we use a mix of no-code and custom development depending on the requirements, budget and complexity of the website project.
This hybrid approach allows us to remain agile and efficient while delivering tailored solutions that meet our clients' specific goals.
For startups or businesses needing to launch quickly, no-code platforms like Webflow or Shopify can provide a flexible, cost-effective solution with impressive design control and CMS functionality.
On the other hand, when a project requires custom integrations, advanced user experiences, or long-term scalability, our in-house development team steps in to build fully bespoke solutions using frameworks like Laravel, Vue.js, or headless CMS setups.
By carefully assessing each project's unique needs, we ensure our clients get the right balance of speed, flexibility, and long-term value, without overengineering or underdelivering.
The no-code appeal (and its limits)
No-code tools are great for:
- Launching MVPs or ‘simple’ websites quickly
- Smaller-sized businesses, with fewer technical needs
- Marketing teams that want autonomy
But they do have limitations:
- Lack of complex customisation
- Potentially limited scalability for growing businesses (depending on the platform)
- Security and performance concerns
- Limited third-party integrations
Why custom development still matters
1. Tailored UX and brand Identity
Your business is unique, which means your online presence should be too. Custom development ensures your UX and visuals are built specifically for your users, not just within the confines of a theme.
2. Performance and speed
A hand-coded site often loads faster, performs better and is easier to optimise for search engines than many drag-and-drop platforms bloated with unnecessary features.
3. Scalability and flexibility
Need to integrate with your CRM? Build a customer portal? Create dynamic content based on user behaviour? Custom development makes these things possible without compromising performance.
4. Stronger SEO foundation
Clean code and full control over structure, metadata, and performance mean your site is easier to optimise for Google, and easier to maintain in the long term.
Which option is better for your website?
No-code is a fantastic tool in the right context.
But when your business needs more than just a digital brochure and when you want a strategic, scalable, high-performing web experience, custom development still reigns supreme.
Build a site that grows with your business
Whether you're exploring no-code options or know you need something more custom, our team is here to help.
Get in touch with Ascensor to talk through your goals and find the right option for your next stage of growth.
