Advantage and Disadvantage of a Single Page Website

Single page websites aren’t uncommon and anyone who wishes to have more control over their website can opt for this one. This is because single page websites make it easier to monitor the target audience and make changes accordingly without spending much time, effort or money.

As one of the leading web development companies in Bangalore, we sat down to have a discussion with our team of developers regarding this topic. This article gives you an insight into the key points so that you can make the right decision.

What is a single page website?

If you want to go by the definition, a single website or a one-page website is pretty much what its name suggests. That is, it has only one HTML page. You won't find any additional pages such as about Us, Features, etc.

All the key information is given on a single page which simplifies navigation for the users. It is easy to make as well as you need not spend a lot of time in stress for creating multiple pages for separate info. There are many companies who choose a single page website, thanks to its affordability. But that’s not all. Various other factors also contribute to the popularity of a single page website. Here’s what you need to know;

A Deeper Dive - Should You Really Choose A Single Page Website?

Advantages of single page website

Prevents time consumption:

It is easy to build and use. To elaborate, since there is only an HTML page, developers do not need much time to build this website. Also, since you can access everything on a single page, you can save a lot of time.

Increases user engagement:

Since all the information is provided in one page, users are likely to spend more time on the website. Also, they might make frequent returns due to the website being user-friendly.

More mobile-friendly:

Single page website allows easy optimization for mobile phones. Thus, users can enjoy the best of the website on their mobile.

Consistent design:

Multiple pages means multiple designs which is not only a hassle for the designers but also the visitors as they might face difficulties in navigation.

Easily direct visitors:

Single page websites provide information in a flow which makes it easier for users/visitors to navigate. You can provide the exact order of content as needed which can benefit both the company and users.

Requires less bandwidth:

Again, since one page websites only load once and does not require high speed internet, anyone can make use of it anytime.

Better storytelling:

One of the best aspects of a single page website is that since all the information is given on one page, users can enjoy a better reading experience. You don't have to go from one page to another in search of what you are looking for.

Easy maintenance and more affordability:

Single page websites are easy to be modified and can be expanded as everything is in one page. That means less expense and less time spent.

Increases conversion rates:

This is possibly one of the best benefits of having a single page website. Since all the visitors/users go to this one page, high traffic is generated for the website resulting in high conversion rates.

Works well with images:

Single page websites do a great job when it comes to visual appeal. You can post high quality images that can enhance the site’s SEO.

Boosts retention rate:

When you can access all the key information on one page without having to click any other buttons, you are more likely to stay right? This is the same with single page websites, a key aspect that users love!

High number of enquiries:

Single page websites enable users to reach out as they are likely to be more interested when limited info in one go. Not to mention, if your product/services make them happy, they are likely to return.

Speedy loading:

Although high volumes of content crammed up on a single page website can hinder loading, keeping the right amount of content can actually result in faster loading of the site. The solution? Finding a middle ground can help.

Now you can see that there are various positives to a single page website. And just like two sides of a coin, there are negatives as well. So let’s discuss the disadvantages of a single page website so that you can have a better understanding.

Disadvantages of single page websites

Limited use of SEO:

Good SEO strategies are essential to remain in the lead. However, when it comes to a one page website, keyword optimization becomes limited as too much can make it look spammy.

Reduced insight on issues:

Normally Google Analytics helps to find out the exact cause of why a website is in poor function or what exactly can be done to boost traffic. A single page website makes it difficult to identify such issues as all the elements are in one page.

Not meant for large content:

This is especially in cases where your company offers various types of products and services. Therefore, you will have to put out a lot of info on your website.

Increased scrolling:

And this is exactly the outcome when you upload lengthy content on your single page website. Visitors will have to spend a lot of time scrolling which can make them frustrated and leave in a jiffy!

Not suitable for sharing:

It has been proven over and over again that a website performs its best when it is shared on social media platforms. But this is pretty difficult for a single page website as you cannot share any of its elements individually.

Cannot be used for blog websites:

Most companies have a blog section as part of their official website. And again, single page websites do not provide a separate space for this to happen. Therefore, if you are thinking of adding a blog to your single page website, sorry to say, but it's a no-go.

Limited use of meta descriptions:

If your product or service is not more than one, then you obviously don't require much meta tags and can use a single page website. But if it's the opposite, it is best to look into other options.

Slow loading:

Now, this is one of the most talked about disadvantages of a single page website. Mainly because when you post too much content, images/video, etc, in a single page, it can affect the loading time of the page.

Scalability is limited:

The only way to add more content is to increase the page length. But this leads to a long page, leaving little to no room for scalability.

Design can be confusing:

A vast majority of folks are familiar with multiple page websites, where the categories are neatly separated into different pages. With all the info in one place, it may be difficult for them, at least initially to navigate smoothly.

Not ideal for commercial purposes:

If you are thinking of building a single page website for your ecommerce ideas, that would be a really bad decision to be honest. Anything that exceeds one product/service, single page websites won’t work well.

Can be expensive:

Although on one hand, one page website generates a lot of traffic, the same can be expensive when your target goals increase. When the need for marketing/advertising comes in, the limited content/links can create difficulties in ranking.

Difficult to return to previous info:

Multiple page websites really makes it easy to simply come back to the page you've noted. But on a single page website, you will have to scroll back a long way and may even lose track of what you had found.

The Bottom Line

Being aware of the advantages and disadvantages, now you may have an idea of what a single page website is all about, what it can and can't do. There have been various discussions and debates on the performance of a single page website and whether or not it can be a good replacement to the regular/multiple page websites. But when it comes to making a final decision, many other factors have to be considered. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your business ideas, requirements, goals, etc. Would you be able to fit in all the details to your product/service on one wall? How effectively would you be able to manage the downsides if any of it happens?

It is always wise to have a well-planned strategy on how you will move forward with a single page website for your business. Hope you enjoyed reading this article. Make sure to get in touch with us if you have any questions or concerns!