Wix’s Price Hike: Is it Time to Consider a Downloadable Solution?

Wix

Wix has recently made headlines for its significant price increase for its SAAS – software as a service -website builder. This move has sparked widespread discontent among its user base, particularly small businesses and individuals who rely on Wix for their online presence.

The Price Increase Breakdown

According to numerous reports from affected users, Wix has implemented anywhere from over 50% price increases to over 110% for certain plans. While the company claims to be offering similar services under new package names, the drastic price hike has left users questioning the value proposition.

The Community Reacts

The news of the price increase has ignited a wave of discontent on social platforms, where users are sharing their experiences and expressing their anger. Many users have invested significant time and resources in building their websites on Wix, and the sudden cost increase poses a significant financial burden.

Why the Outcry?

The primary reason for the backlash is the substantial increase in pricing, which has forced many users to reconsider their long-term commitment to Wix. This sudden and significant cost hike has left many feeling frustrated and seeking more affordable alternatives.

The Limitations of Cloud-Based Solutions

While cloud-based website builders like Wix offer ease of use and accessibility, they also come with certain limitations:

  • Limited Control: Cloud-based platforms often restrict users’ control over their website’s infrastructure and hosting environment.
  • Recurring Costs: Subscription-based models can lead to ongoing expenses, especially for small businesses with tight budgets.
  • Potential for Future Price Increases: As we’ve seen with Wix, SAAS-only cloud providers may increase their prices without warning, impacting the long-term affordability of your website.
  • No Download Option: You cannot download your website data to migrate your website to another host and website builder.

The UltimateWB Advantage: A Downloadable Solution

UltimateWB, a powerful and flexible downloadable website builder, offers a compelling alternative to SAAS-only cloud-based solutions. By choosing UltimateWB, you can:

  • Own Your Website: With UltimateWB, you have complete ownership of your website. This means you can host it with UltimateWB or on any web hosting provider of your choice that meets the server requirements, giving you greater control over your website’s performance and security.
  • Pay Once, Own Forever: Unlike subscription-based models, UltimateWB offers a one-time purchase. This eliminates recurring costs and provides long-term cost savings.
  • Customize and Control: UltimateWB empowers you to customize every aspect of your website, from its design and layout to its functionality. You have the freedom to create a truly unique online presence.
  • Start as SAAS Cloud, Upgrade Easily to Downloadable: UltimateWB also offers a SAAS UltimateWB Cloud option, which bundles the website builder with the web hosting. You can easily upgrade to the downloadable website builder and migrate your website to another host.

By choosing a downloadable website builder like UltimateWB, you can break free from the limitations and uncertainties of SAAS-only cloud-based solutions. Take control of your website’s future and enjoy the benefits of a more affordable, flexible, and customizable approach.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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UltimateWB’s Built-in Directory: A Powerful Tool for Creating Online Directories

Gym Chat sports listings directory

UltimateWB offers a robust, built-in directory app that empowers users to create and manage comprehensive online directories without the need for additional plugins or third-party software. This versatile tool is packed with features that cater to a wide range of directory needs.

Key Features of UltimateWB’s Directory App

  • Flexible Listing Management:
    • Create, edit, and delete listings with ease.
    • Organize listings into types, categories, and subcategories.
    • Customize listing fields to capture specific information.
  • Advanced Search and Filtering:
    • Implement powerful search and filter options to help users find what they need.
    • Utilize Google Maps integration to display listings geographically.
  • E-commerce Capabilities:
    • Allow users to sell products and services directly through their listings.
    • Set up fees for listing submissions, featured listings, and more.
    • Utilize the Credits System for user-to-user transactions.
  • User Engagement Features:
    • Enable user reviews and ratings to foster community interaction.
    • Offer social sharing options to increase visibility.
  • Customization and Control:
    • Tailor the directory’s appearance and functionality to match your brand.
    • Manage listings, users, and settings through an intuitive admin panel.
    • Set access permissions to control who can view and edit listings.

Ideal Use Cases for UltimateWB’s Directory App

  • Local Business Directories: Showcase local businesses, restaurants, and services.
  • Professional Directories: Create directories for doctors, lawyers, or other professionals.
  • Community Directories: Connect community members and organizations.

By leveraging UltimateWB’s directory app, you can create a dynamic and engaging online platform that attracts and retains users.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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UltimateWB website builder Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sales!

Posted on November 28, 2024 by admin

We’re rolling out an early sale for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, starting today! Save 20% on all UltimateWB website builder software: UltimateWB Full, Lite, Essentials+, PromoU, and Promo! Use coupon code “cooldeal” to activate. Sale is open through next Thursday December 5.

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Why Doesn’t Google Maps Use WebP? A Deep Dive

PageSpeed Insights for Google Maps
PageSpeed Insights (PSI), a free tool from Google, notes that Google Maps is not using next-gen formats like WebP or AVIF

WebP: A Modern Image Format

WebP, a modern image format developed by Google, offers superior lossy and lossless compression compared to traditional formats like JPEG and PNG. This translates to smaller file sizes, faster loading times, and reduced data consumption. UltimateWB offers WebP support, with easy tools to automatically convert images to WebP. Given Google’s pioneering role in web technologies, one might wonder why a service as ubiquitous as Google Maps hasn’t fully embraced WebP.  

The Complexities Behind the Scenes

While WebP offers significant advantages, its implementation in a complex service like Google Maps is not as straightforward as it might seem. Several factors contribute to this:

  1. Browser Compatibility:
    • Although WebP is widely supported by modern browsers, older browsers or specific devices might not render it correctly. To ensure a seamless user experience across diverse platforms, Google might be cautious about adopting a format that could potentially break functionality for some users.
  2. Image Quality and Complexity:
    • Google Maps utilizes a wide range of image types, from satellite imagery to street-view panoramas. WebP might not be the optimal format for all these image types, especially when it comes to complex images or those requiring high-quality rendering.  
  3. Server-Side Infrastructure:
    • Implementing a new image format like WebP requires significant modifications to server-side infrastructure, including image processing pipelines and content delivery networks (CDNs). This can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially for a service as large and intricate as Google Maps.
  4. User Experience and Performance Trade-offs:
    • While WebP can improve performance, it’s crucial to balance this with user experience. If the conversion to WebP leads to noticeable quality degradation or compatibility issues, it might not be worth the performance gain.  
  5. Third-Party Integrations:
    • Google Maps is often integrated into other websites and applications. Ensuring compatibility with these integrations while transitioning to a new image format can be challenging.  

The Future of Image Formats in Google Maps

Despite these complexities, Google is continuously striving to optimize its services, including Google Maps. As browser support for WebP improves and the technology matures, we may witness a more widespread adoption of this format in Google’s products.  

In the meantime, you can optimize your own websites by using WebP and other modern image formats to enhance performance and user experience.   And score higher on PageSpeed Insights…possibly leading to a better search engine ranking :-)

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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Internal Linking Dos and Don’ts: What to Avoid and What to Focus On

Internal Links, SEO

Internal linking is a crucial SEO technique that involves strategically placing links within your website to connect different pages. It helps search engine crawlers discover and index your content, improves user experience, and can boost your website’s overall authority and organic traffic. However, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls and focus on best practices to maximize the benefits of internal linking.

What to Avoid:

  1. Over-Optimization:
    • Keyword Stuffing: Avoid overloading anchor text with keywords. Use natural language and focus on relevance.
    • Excessive Linking: Too many links on a single page can dilute their impact and confuse search engines.
  2. Irrelevant Links:
    • Ensure that links are relevant to the content of the page they are on and the page they link to. Avoid linking to unrelated pages just to increase the number of links.
  3. Broken Links:
    • Broken links can negatively impact user experience and search engine rankings. Regularly check for and fix broken links.
  4. Poor Link Structure:
    • A disorganized link structure can hinder search engine crawlers and confuse users. Create a logical and hierarchical link structure.

Where to Focus:

  1. Strategic Placement:
    • Place links strategically within your content to guide users and search engine crawlers.
    • Consider using links in introductory paragraphs, concluding paragraphs, and within the main body of your content.
  2. Keyword-Rich Anchor Text:
    • Use relevant keywords in your anchor text to help search engines understand the topic of the linked page.
    • For example, instead of “Click here,” use “Learn more about SEO best practices.”
  3. Informative and Engaging Content:
  4. Mobile-Friendly Linking:
    • Optimize your internal links for mobile devices to ensure a seamless user experience. You can easily make your website responsive with UltimateWB and the built-in Responsive app.
  5. Regular Review and Update:
    • Periodically review your internal linking structure to identify any issues or opportunities for improvement.
    • Update broken links, remove outdated content, and add new links to fresh content.

By avoiding common pitfalls and focusing on these key areas, you can create a strong internal linking structure that benefits both your users and search engines. Remember, a well-optimized internal linking strategy is an essential component of a successful SEO campaign.

Related: What Makes Your Website Content “High-Quality Content”? We Spill the Tea!

What are some white hat SEO tricks and tips for boosting organic traffic?

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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The Power of Links: How Internal and External Links Boost SEO

Understanding the Role of Links in SEO

In the realm of Search Engine Optimization (SEO), links are often referred to as the “backbone” of the internet. They not only connect websites but also influence how search engines like Google rank them. While backlinks, or links from other websites to yours, are crucial, the power of internal and external links within your own website should not be underestimated.

Internal Linking: The Foundation of Your Website

Internal links are links that point to other pages within your own website. They serve several important purposes:

  • Improved Crawlability: Search engine crawlers rely on links to discover and index new pages on your website. By strategically placing internal links, you can ensure that all your content is accessible to these crawlers.
  • Enhanced User Experience: Well-structured internal linking guides users through your website, making it easier for them to find relevant information. This improves user experience and encourages them to stay on your site longer.
  • Keyword Optimization: By using relevant keywords in anchor text (the clickable text of a link), you can help search engines understand the topic of the linked page.

External Linking: Building Relationships and Authority

External links, or outbound links, are links that point to other websites. While they may not directly impact your rankings as much as backlinks, they still play a significant role in SEO:

  • Increased Trustworthiness: Linking to reputable external sources can enhance your website’s credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of search engines.
  • Potential for Backlinks: When you link to other websites, there’s a chance that they may reciprocate by linking back to your site.
  • Contextual Relevance: Linking to relevant external sources can provide additional context and information to your users, improving the overall quality of your content.

Best Practices for Effective Linking

To maximize the benefits of internal and external linking, consider the following best practices:

  • Relevant and Natural Linking: Ensure that your links are relevant to the content of the page and the user’s intent. Avoid excessive or forced linking.
  • Strategic Anchor Text: Use descriptive and keyword-rich anchor text to improve the context and relevance of your links.
  • Balanced Link Profile: Maintain a balanced link profile with a mix of internal and external links.
  • Monitor and Update Links: Regularly check your links for broken links and update them as needed.

By understanding the power of internal and external links and implementing these best practices, you can significantly improve your website’s SEO and drive organic traffic.

Related: What are some white hat SEO tricks and tips for boosting organic traffic?

10 Top Ways to Build Quality Backlinks

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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Creating Interactive 3D Elements for Your Website: A Beginner’s Guide

3D element, billiard ball

Have you ever seen a website with a 3D object that moves and reacts as you scroll? It’s a captivating way to engage your audience and make your website stand out. In this post, we’ll explore how you can create similar interactive 3D elements using Blender and web technologies.

Understanding the Basics

To create interactive 3D elements, you’ll need a basic understanding of:

  • 3D Modeling: Creating 3D objects using software like Blender.
  • 3D Animation: Bringing your models to life with animation techniques.
  • Web Development: Building the website structure using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You can use UltimatWB for the bulk of your website to make the process a lot faster and easier, and integrate the custom coding needed for the 3D elements.
  • 3D JavaScript Libraries: Using libraries like Three.js or Babylon.js to render 3D graphics in the browser.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Create Your 3D Model:
    • Choose a 3D Modeling Software: Blender is a powerful and free open-source option.
    • Model Your Object: Create the 3D object you want to display on your website.
    • Rigging: If you want your model to move, rig it to control its animation.
    • Texturing: Apply textures to give your model a realistic appearance.
  2. Export Your Model:
    • Export your model in a suitable format like GLTF or FBX.
  3. Integrate into Your Website:
    • Choose a 3D Library: Three.js is a popular choice for web-based 3D graphics.
    • Load Your Model: Use the library’s functions to load your exported 3D model into your website.
    • Add Interactivity: Use JavaScript to create interactions like rotation, scaling, or animation triggers on user events.

Tips for Creating Stunning 3D Elements:

  • Optimize Your Model: Keep your model’s polygon count low to improve performance.
  • Use High-Quality Textures: High-resolution textures can significantly enhance the visual quality of your 3D model.
  • Experiment with Lighting: Proper lighting can dramatically impact the mood and atmosphere of your scene.
  • Consider User Experience: Ensure your 3D elements are accessible and don’t hinder the overall user experience.
  • Test Across Devices: Test your website on different devices and browsers to ensure compatibility and performance.

Online Resources and Tutorials

  • Blender: A powerful and free open-source 3D creation suite.
  • Three.js: A JavaScript library for creating 3D, 2D, and VR experiences.
  • Babylon.js: A powerful, efficient, and open-source framework for building 3D games.
  • YouTube: Search for tutorials on 3D modeling and animation.

By following these steps and leveraging the power of 3D libraries like Three.js, you can create stunning and interactive 3D elements that will elevate your website’s design and user experience.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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How to Create a Website People Will Pay For: A Case Study for a Fitness App

Create fitness web app people will pay for

“Ask David!” question: “I’m building a fitness app and want to know how to get people to pay for it. I’m already gathering feedback, using analytics, and iterating quickly. What else can I do to boost conversions?”

This is a common question for many app developers. While building a great fitness app is crucial, it’s equally important to convince users to pay for it. Let’s explore some strategies to help you achieve this goal.

1. Deepen Your Value Proposition

  • Unique Selling Point (USP): Clearly articulate what sets your fitness app apart from competitors. Is it personalized workout plans, AI-powered coaching, or a strong community feature?
  • Pain Point Solution: Highlight how your app addresses a specific pain point for your target audience. Is it helping them lose weight, gain muscle, or improve overall fitness?
  • Long-Term Benefits: Emphasize the long-term value of using your app, such as improved health, increased energy levels, and a higher quality of life.

2. Optimize the User Experience

  • Intuitive Design: Ensure your app’s interface is clean, intuitive, and easy to navigate, even for novice users.
  • Seamless Onboarding: Guide new users through a smooth onboarding process, highlighting key features and benefits.
  • Personalized Experience: Leverage user data to tailor the app’s experience to individual preferences, such as fitness goals, workout history, and preferred exercise types.

3. Effective Pricing Strategy

  • Tiered Pricing: Offer multiple pricing tiers to cater to different user needs and budgets. A basic tier could offer core features, while a premium tier could include advanced features like personalized coaching and nutrition plans.
  • Free Trial: Provide a free trial to allow users to experience the app’s value firsthand.
  • Limited-Time Offers: Consider offering limited-time discounts or promotions to incentivize sign-ups.

4. Robust Marketing and Promotion

  • Content Marketing: Create high-quality content, such as blog posts, workout tips, and healthy recipes, to attract and engage your target audience.
  • Social Media Marketing: Utilize social media platforms to share your app’s benefits, run fitness challenges, and interact with your community.
  • Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with fitness influencers to reach a wider audience and generate buzz.
  • Email Marketing: Send targeted email campaigns to nurture leads, promote special offers, and re-engage inactive users.
  • Paid Advertising: Consider paid advertising on platforms like Google Ads and social media to reach a larger audience.

5. Continuous Improvement and Feedback

  • User Feedback: Actively seek and incorporate user feedback to refine your app’s features and functionality.
  • A/B Testing: Experiment with different design elements, pricing strategies, and marketing tactics to optimize conversions.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Use analytics to track user behavior and identify areas for improvement.

By focusing on these key areas, you can create a compelling value proposition, optimize the user experience, implement effective pricing strategies, and leverage robust marketing tactics to drive conversions and build a loyal user base for your fitness app.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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Quick Fix: Removing an Unwanted Windows Update Background

Windows background

Anyone else get an unexpected new background that popped up after a Windows update?

Don’t worry, it’s a common annoyance, but there’s a simple solution to restore your preferred desktop background.

Here’s how to fix it, step-by-step guide:

  1. Open Windows Settings:
    • Method 1: Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
    • Method 2: Right-click on the Start button and select “Settings.”
    • Method 3: Click on the blue 4-square Windows Start icon on your screen and type “background” in the Search box – the option to update your Windows background will come up, just click on that, and skip to Step 3.
  2. Navigate to Personalization:
    • In the Settings app, click on “Personalization.”
  3. Choose a New Background:
    • Under the “Background” section, select “Picture.”
    • Click “Browse” to choose a blank image or a default Windows background.

That’s it! Your desktop should now display your chosen background.

If you’re still having trouble, here are a few additional tips:

  • Check for Third-Party Software: Some third-party software can interfere with Windows settings. Consider temporarily disabling or uninstalling any recently installed software.
  • Restart Your Computer: A simple restart can often resolve minor glitches.
  • Update Your Graphics Drivers: Outdated graphics drivers can sometimes cause unexpected behavior. Check for updates from your graphics card manufacturer’s website.

By following these steps, you should be able to quickly and easily restore your preferred desktop background.

Do you have any other Windows-related questions or issues? Feel free to share them in the comments below.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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How to Craft an Effective Pricing Strategy

pricing strategy

A well-executed pricing strategy is the cornerstone of any successful business. It directly impacts your revenue, profit margins, and overall brand perception. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you develop a pricing strategy that maximizes your business potential.

1. Understand Your Product or Service:

  • Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Identify what sets your offering apart from competitors.
  • Target Market: Determine who your ideal customers are and their willingness to pay.
  • Cost Structure: Analyze your fixed and variable costs to understand your break-even point.

2. Set Your Pricing Objectives:

  • Profit Maximization: Aim for the highest possible profit margin.
  • Market Penetration: Attract a large market share by offering competitive prices.
  • Market Skimming: Charge premium prices for innovative or exclusive products.
  • Survival Pricing: Lower prices to maintain market presence during challenging times.

3. Choose a Pricing Strategy:

  • Cost-Based Pricing: Set prices based on production costs, adding a markup for profit.
  • Value-Based Pricing: Determine prices based on perceived value to the customer.
  • Competition-Based Pricing: Set prices in relation to competitors’ offerings.
  • Dynamic Pricing: Adjust prices in real-time based on market demand, inventory levels, and other factors.

4. Consider Psychological Pricing Tactics:

  • Odd-Even Pricing: Use odd-numbered prices to create the perception of a bargain.
  • Prestige Pricing: Set high prices to signal luxury and exclusivity.
  • Bundle Pricing: Group products or services together to increase perceived value.
  • Tiered Pricing: Offer different pricing tiers based on features or usage levels.

5. Test and Refine Your Strategy:

  • A/B Testing: Experiment with different pricing strategies to identify the most effective approach.
  • Monitor Competitor Pricing: Stay informed about competitors’ pricing moves and adjust your strategy accordingly.
  • Gather Customer Feedback: Use surveys and feedback to understand customer perceptions of value and price.
  • Analyze Sales Data: Track sales performance to identify trends and optimize your pricing strategy.

Additional Tips:

  • Be Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your pricing strategy as market conditions change.
  • Consider Long-Term Goals: Avoid short-term price cuts that may harm your brand’s reputation.
  • Align Pricing with Your Brand Image: Ensure your pricing strategy reflects your brand’s positioning.
  • Use Pricing to Build Customer Loyalty: Offer discounts, loyalty programs, and other incentives.

By following these guidelines and continuously monitoring your pricing strategy, you can optimize your revenue and achieve long-term business success.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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