Web Design Software Reviews

If you like the idea of doing everything yourself then you might like to consider purchasing some web design software and starting from scratch. This option gives you total control over all aspects of your web site.

Assuming you are using a Windows PC the three packages reviewed below may be of interest.

X Site Pro. The software we use to maintain this web site.

Pros. Large Range of built in templates to get you started and all are fairly easy to modify. You can change virtually every aspect of your site with just a few mouse clicks. Uniquely, XSP keeps your content separate from your design so when you decide to change the look of your site you just choose a different design and your content remains intact - we haven't come across this before and if you like to tinker it's an invaluable asset. XSP also includes a lot of features not found elsewhere. For example, four mouse clicks to get a proper "Good Morning" message on your site. It will also build a Google Site Map automatically - a vital part of any web site. As you think of another feature that you would like on your site it likely XSP already does it - click the "Other" Tab for 15 more interesting things to try including one of our favourites, the ability to make a second copy of your site "tuned" for mobile phone and PDA access. The builders offer a 30 day money back guarantee so you have nothing to lose if you try it and don't like it.
Cons. A couple of points that we found niggling. Seems to take a while when compiling your site prior to upload (maybe there is a lot to do though) and when you click save we got the impression it resaved every page rather than just the one we had changed. However, we can live with both of those just to benefit from the good side of this software.
Summary. If you are new to web design XSP can keep it easy as it can be and you can add the adventurous bits as you become more experienced. Uniquely, it also comes with around 1500 pages of printable books that tell you everything you need to know.

Visit the XSitePro web design software site to get your own copy.

Microsoft Expression Web 2.
Pros. Part of the Microsoft family so if you are used to Office the layout will be familiar. Has a small number of templates built in and all can be easily edited by the user. Expression followed Front Page and is a vast improvement and doesn't rely on server specifics like its predecessor did. The best choice if you need to integrate with a Windows Back End environment and works well along side Visual Studio.
Cons. Assumes some knowledge of web design. Again, runs quite slowly on a powerful machine.
Summary. A reasonable web design package with a lot of automation.

Adobe Dreamweaver.
Pros. Probably the most technically competent of all packages but doesn't come cheap. Unless you are already proficient at and understand the concept of web design there will be a steep learning curve but with patience, creative flair and perseverance it will produce first class web sites.
Cons. Expensive. Very expensive. Difficult to understand if not proficient in design practices. Older versions will not run on Vista. Adobe support is virtually non existent.
Summary. The professional choice. If you need the industry standard package you will buy this otherwise look elsewhere.

These reviews are the personal views of our web designer and other people may have different thoughts. It's always best to conduct your own research before making any purchase.