The digital transformation era has brought major changes to how businesses operate — including how they approach website development. Yet, many companies are still hesitant to invest and continue opting for low-cost websites to represent their brands in the digital age. But should they ?
What Is a Business Website For ?
In the early 2000s, as internet access expanded, many established businesses in Vietnam began building their own websites. However, back then, digital was a novelty. With limited vision and strategy, many websites were created without clear long-term goals. Today, decades later, many of these websites remain patchy, lacking a unified customer experience.
Unfortunately, many companies still underestimate the importance of a professional website. They allocate minimal budgets, assuming a website is just a secondary tool — believing that real business still happens offline. But is that mindset still valid in the digital age ?
Related: Why Is a Website Crucial for Your Business?
The Value of a Business Website: Should You Go Cheap?
What’s the first thing you do when you hear about a new brand? Most people immediately search for it on Google and visit the official website. This makes your website the face of your brand — the first touchpoint. So why wouldn’t a business invest in this critical tool? Why not build a strong customer journey and compelling brand story that makes visitors fall in love at first sight?
A well-designed website increases customer trust and can significantly improve conversion rates. A business-owned site provides full control over branding and content — allowing seamless integration with other marketing channels.
Related: 10 Core Principles of Good Website Design
A great user experience helps customers remember your brand. While SEO and SEM can bring visitors, they are campaign-based. If the website performs poorly, these efforts become costly and inefficient.
User expectations are rising. If your site is slow or confusing, they’ll leave in seconds. The infamous 15-second rule means if your website doesn’t load fast or meet their needs, users will bounce. Cheap websites are often bulky and poorly optimized. With increased competition and lower brand loyalty, poor UX will drive users to your competitors.
More than just a digital presence, your website defines your business’s professionalism and credibility. A well-invested site shows care and commitment — essential for long-term branding and reputation.
Cheap Websites May Cost More Than You Think ?
Let’s break down the real cost. Even a basic site takes at least two months to complete and involves 2–3 professionals. How can you expect a sustainable product for just a few hundred thousand VND ?
When you pay for a website, you’re not just paying for design. You’re paying for research, strategy, brand positioning, customer insight, and future-proofing.
Many low-budget providers skip these steps. They use free templates and generic code, leading to security flaws, bugs, and limited features. This shortcut approach may save money upfront but causes long-term damage.
You also risk losing support. Freelancers may disappear. Agencies offering cheap prices often exclude maintenance, updates, or warranties. If your site crashes or gets hacked, you may be forced to start over — risking data loss, domain changes, and brand reputation.
Professional agencies like Eras Vietnam include after-sales support, hosting, warranty, and strategic collaboration. That’s real value.
Don’t Let Cheap Websites Hinder Your Digital Transformation
Business today goes far beyond brick-and-mortar operations. With widespread internet use and smart devices, digital platforms are now essential.
Take e-commerce sites like Tiki or Lazada — they are digital marketplaces mimicking physical stores. Customers can browse, buy, chat, and review all in one place. Why shouldn’t your business offer the same seamless experience?
In summary, while budget-friendly websites may appeal to some, they often come with compromises. Evaluate your needs, your goals, and your brand’s future — and choose wisely.
