As AI website builders flood the market with promises of instant, professional websites, many Welsh businesses are asking: “Do we still need web developers?” At Web Cardiff, we’re tackling this question head-on with a straightforward look at what AI can—and can’t—do for your business website.
The Rise of AI Website Builders
The promise is enticing: drag, drop, and let AI do the rest. These platforms offer:
- Instant website generation
- Pre-made templates
- Basic customisation options
- Low monthly costs
But here’s what business owners need to know about the real capabilities and limitations of AI website builders.
When AI Website Builders Make Sense
Perfect for:
- Personal blogs
- Basic portfolio sites
- Simple landing pages
- Temporary event pages
- Testing business ideas
A Cardiff startup recently used an AI builder to launch their initial landing page while developing their product. It served its purpose perfectly—until they needed more.
The Hidden Costs of AI-Built Websites
What many businesses discover too late:
Limited Customisation
That unique feature your business needs? AI builders often can’t handle custom functionality. A local restaurant found they couldn’t integrate their specific booking system with their AI-built site.
SEO Challenges
AI-generated sites often use generic code structures that can hurt local SEO. A Cardiff retailer switched to professional development after six months of poor search rankings with an AI platform.
Ongoing Subscription Costs
While the initial cost seems low, monthly fees add up. Over two years, many businesses spend more on subscriptions than they would have on a custom-built site.
When Professional Web Development Shines
Complex Functionality
A Welsh e-commerce business needed:
- Custom payment processing
- Inventory management
- Multi-currency support
- Integration with local delivery services
Their AI-built site couldn’t handle it. Professional development delivered everything within budget.
Performance Optimisation
Professional developers create sites that:
- Load faster
- Handle more traffic
- Convert better
- Rank higher in search results
Business-Specific Solutions
Recent example: A Cardiff estate agent needed:
However, even the most sophisticated AI-built website will require proper website optimisation to perform effectively in search results and deliver genuine business value.
Whilst AI builders excel at basic functionality, many Cardiff businesses discover they need custom online solutions to truly differentiate themselves in competitive markets.
While AI tools can handle basic website creation, many Cardiff businesses still require the expertise and customisation that comes from working with a professional WordPress designer who understands their local market.
- Property search integration
- Virtual viewing booking system
- Automated valuation tools
- Local market data display
No AI builder could deliver this functionality—but our development team did.
The Real Value of Professional Development
Beyond Code
Professional web development includes:
- Business analysis
- User experience design
- Custom functionality
- Security implementation
- Ongoing support
- Local market insights
Future-Proofing
When your business grows, your website needs to grow with it. Professional developers build with scalability in mind.
Cost Comparison: The Truth
AI Website Builders
- Monthly subscription: £10-50
- Premium features: £20-100/month
- Custom domain: £10-15/year
- Two-year total: £720-3,900
Professional Development
- One-time build: £2,000-5,000
- Hosting: £100-200/year
- Domain: £10-15/year
- Two-year total: £2,220-5,430
While professional development has a higher upfront cost, it often proves more cost-effective long-term.
The Hybrid Approach
Some businesses benefit from both:
- Start with an AI builder for initial presence
- Move to professional development when ready to scale
- Use AI tools for content management within a custom site
Making the Right Choice
Ask yourself:
- How unique are your business needs?
- What functionality do you require?
- What’s your growth plan?
- How important is local SEO?
- What’s your long-term budget?
The Bottom Line
AI website builders aren’t threatening web developers—they’re complementing them. Each has its place in the market. While AI excels at basic websites, professional development remains essential for businesses needing custom solutions, optimal performance, and room to grow.
Ready to discuss which option best suits your business? Contact Web Cardiff for a free consultation.
Web Cardiff combines local expertise with professional web development to deliver solutions that work for Welsh businesses. We help you make informed decisions about your digital presence.
