"We need a website" can mean a lot of things. For some businesses, one page with a clear explanation and a WhatsApp button is more than enough. For others, the website is part of the brand experience itself.
Go too small and your business looks less serious. Go too big and you pay for features nobody uses. This guide helps you choose between a simple landing page, a custom landing page and an interactive website.
A simple landing page: one page, one job
A landing page is a one-page website with one clear job: getting visitors to do something. Message you on WhatsApp, place an order, sign up or visit the shop.
It usually includes:
- A headline that says what you offer
- A short explanation of the product or service
- Photos or illustration
- Testimonials or other proof, if you have them
- A clear contact or WhatsApp button
Good for: new businesses that want to get online quickly, small brands that have only had Instagram so far, or a single product you're promoting with ads. If your goal is "a tidy link for my bio", start here.
A custom landing page: designed to sell
Still one page (or a long page with several sections), but designed for your brand instead of picked from a template. The structure answers a potential customer's doubts one by one: what you offer, examples of your work, how you work, frequent questions, and then a clear invitation to get in touch.
Compared with the simple version, you get:
- A custom design that follows your brand identity
- Sections for services, portfolio and FAQ
- Basic SEO setup so people can find you on Google
- A contact form or WhatsApp integration
Good for: service providers, studios, clinics, consultants, or any business whose customers need some convincing before they reach out.
An interactive website: when the experience is part of the message
An interactive website moves and responds: a character that reacts when your cursor passes, content that appears as you scroll, a small surprise when you press a button, even a mini game. These moments aren't decoration. They make people stay longer and remember the brand.
Good for:
- Product launches that need to build anticipation
- Campaign microsites built around a big idea
- Creative portfolios, where the way you show your work also shows your skill
- Events, invitations and experiences people are meant to enjoy
Less suitable if visitors only come for quick information, like opening hours or a phone number. Then extra interaction just gets in the way.
One principle we stick to: clear first, then a little surprising. A good interactive site still loads fast and reads easily. Interaction goes where it helps, not everywhere.
A quick way to decide
Answer three questions:
- What's the one thing a visitor should do? If it's simple (send a WhatsApp, place an order), start with a landing page.
- Do customers need convincing first? If yes, you need more sections: portfolio, process, FAQ. Choose a custom landing page.
- Is the experience of visiting part of your product? For launches, campaigns or brands with a strong character, consider an interactive website.
You can also grow in steps: start with a landing page now and expand as the business and its needs grow.
Hidden costs people forget
Whatever you choose, know these from the start:
- Domain. Your address (like yourbrand.com) is paid yearly and should be registered in your own name.
- Hosting. Where the website lives, usually also paid periodically. Light static sites can use very affordable hosting.
- Content. Copy, product photos and testimonials. Even a beautiful site feels empty without good content.
- Upkeep. Updating prices, menus or news. Make sure you know how to change things yourself, or who will help.
If a provider doesn't explain these, ask before you start.
How we can help
At Inkfish, our website and landing page design service covers all three options, from a one-page landing page to an interactive site with characters that move. Domain and hosting costs are separate because they're yours, but we'll help you choose and set them up.
Not sure which one you need? Send a short brief and we'll suggest the option that makes the most sense, with a clear quote.