What is your process for hosting client websites outside of Webflow to increase revenue and make your agency more profitable, especially for non-CMS websites? Can you please provide information on where you host it, the disadvantages of doing this, and any other considerations to keep in mind? Additionally, if you recommend using another CMS for external hosting, what CMS would you suggest for someone who has only worked with Webflow?

Hosting client websites outside of Webflow can help increase agency revenue, especially for non-CMS websites, by allowing more control over hosting costs and offering additional services. Here's how to host Webflow sites outside of Webflow and key considerations to keep in mind.

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1. Choose a Hosting Provider

• Select a reliable hosting provider like DigitalOcean, AWS, or Netlify. Ensure it supports the features you need, such as custom domains and SSL certificates.
• Consider pricing, scalability, and ease of management when selecting a provider to align with your agency's financial and technical capabilities.

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2. Export and Prepare the Site

• Export the Webflow site by going to the Project Settings and selecting Export Code. This is only available for non-CMS sites, as Webflow CMS does not export.
• Check the exported files (HTML, CSS, JS) for completeness and ensure there are no Webflow-specific dependencies that need adjustment.

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3. Upload to the Hosting Provider

• Upload the site files to your chosen hosting provider using their interface or via FTP/SFTP as appropriate.
• Configure any necessary settings for custom domains, SSL certificates, and redirects based on your client's needs.

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4. Recommend an Alternative CMS

• If a CMS is required, consider systems like WordPress or Statamic. WordPress is widely used and has extensive resources for beginners, while Statamic offers a flexible flat-file system without database dependence.
• Determine which CMS best fits your client's project needs, such as ease of use, community support, and required technical skills.

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5. Consider Maintenance and Support

• Factor in additional maintenance services you can offer, such as security updates, backups, and content updates, to enhance profitability.
• Evaluate the long-term commitment of managing external hosting and consider the potential need for technical support for issues that may arise.

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6. Assess Disadvantages

• Loss of Simple Integration: You'll miss out on Webflow’s built-in hosting benefits like seamless updates and easy CMS management for dynamic content.
• Increased Responsibility: You assume additional responsibilities for server management, security, and performance, which can lead to increased workload.

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Summary

To host Webflow sites externally and increase revenue, choose a reliable hosting provider, export and upload site files, and consider alternative CMS options if needed. Keep in mind the additional responsibilities and potential loss of Webflow’s integrated hosting benefits. This approach allows you to customize hosting services according to client needs and potentially enhance your agency’s profitability.