Comparing Two Web-Editing Platforms

 

Description of the Platforms

The first platform I used is Google Sites.  Google Sites is part of the Google Suite and it's easy to add Google Sheets, Docs, Slides, and more.  With a Google account, it's easy to create a website with a drag and drop method and there are several themes to choose from as well. 

The second platform I used is Weebly.  Weebly has a free or a paid plan.  I used the free plan and it has a lot of options available.  You can choose a theme, add what pages you want, play around with the colors, and customize the settings you'd like.  

What Obstacles I Encountered

For Google Sites, I didn't encounter too many obstacles.  I've already created a few websites, including during the ETEC courses, so using this site platform wasn't too challenging.  The main obstacle I did face though, is not being able to get the look of the site the way I want it.  It seems to be very limited in it's design capabilities.  But, I know there are several themes to pick from and maybe I haven't gotten in there and played around with them enough. 

While working with Weebly, I realized that there was a bit of a learning curve.  I'm used to using Wordpress and am familiar with other web platforms, but Weebly is completely new to me.  It took me a while to figure out how to change the font from grey to black, to figure out how to put spacing between the sections, and how to add a video onto one of the pages.  The free plan doesn't let you add videos, so I had to figure out a round about way of doing this. 

How I Resolved These Obstacles

Since I have a hard time customizing the look and feel of a website on Google sites, I try to make sure I'm picking graphics and headings that help give the pages a unique look.  I make sure there is a good amount of spacing between sections and am cautious of the graphics I put on my site and that they're relevant to the topic.

I resolved the obstacles while working with Weebly by taking my time.  I knew since this platform was new to me, it would take me a bit of time to figure things out.  After finding the settings button, I was able to change the font of the pages and they hyperlinks.  Then, I had been putting space between the sections by hitting enter on the keyboard.  Once I realized there was a drag and drop spacer option, it made the spacing issue easier.  For the video part, I was able to copy the html code and paste it onto the site in a new section. 

What Successes I Experienced

I felt successful while using Google sites because, like I said earlier, it was more familiar to me.  It's great feeling like I know how to use this platform easily and feel confident knowing I can continue creating websites on it.  

When I worked with Weebly, I found success in being able to create the site the way I wanted it.  Being able to create a clean and simple look is my style, and I realized I can do this on Weebly.  I'm glad I was able to create with Weebly, because I definitely think I'll be using it again because I found the process easy to use.  One thing I like a lot is the fact that I can add in text to the footer and it applies it to all pages. 

Which Platform I Prefer to Use

The platform I prefer to use for design is Wordpress, as that's where my other website has been housed for the last 5 years.  But between Google Sites or Weebly, I honestly think it depends on what I would be using the site for.  

I prefer Google sites if I'm working in a classroom setting, because it's easy to use and I can use it as part of my Google Suite.  But, in my opinion, Weebly looks more professional.  So, if I were to design a website for a school, district, or business, this would be my preferred option. 

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