Marketing Toolbox

Software Options

A variety of web design software tools and languages are available for developing websites. Each solution has advantages and disadvantages and the business website designer will use what he or she feels is most comfortable and appropriate. The best option will match your overall objectives.

Open Source vs. Commercial Applications

Open source development tools include languages such as PHP, Perl, DotNetNuke, and server solutions like Linux and MySQL. Popular commercial applications are availabl,e from Microsoft, IBM, Sun and more. They include languages such as Dot Net, Domino, and Java; also, server systems like Windows Server, AIX and Solaris, MS SQL, DB2, and Oracle.

Open source applications are typically free to use. This allows developers easy access to the tools and results in lower project start up costs. Commercial applications require licensing to use and can increase initial development costs. These tools are supported by large corporations and have large developer networks of trained professionals. Long term costs to support and maintain these applications are usually less and typically offer a lower total cost of ownership than open source applications.

Biznet Internet solutions, a leader in Michigan web design development, can help you select the solutions based on your needs. If your solution stands alone and will require little maintenance, open source may be the best choice. If you plan to integrate your site with other commercial systems, consider the value proposition of the commercial software solution.