After years of using Webflow, I've finally reached a point where we're ready to move on. It's not that Webflow is inherently bad, but rather that its lack of progress and focus on monetisation over developer experience has become increasingly frustrating. In this post, I'll walk you through our new tech stack, which we've found to be far more flexible and powerful for building client websites.
The Breaking Point with Webflow
Like many developers, we initially found Webflow to be a fantastic tool for building visually appealing websites quickly. However, as our projects became more complex, we started to encounter limitations that hindered our workflow and our clients' businesses.
- Lack of Development and Innovation: Whilst Webflow has focused on enterprise solutions, it has neglected fundamental developer needs. The pace of innovation seems to have slowed, and the platform hasn't kept up with the rapid evolution of web development.
- Clunky Workarounds: For anything beyond basic websites, Webflow requires numerous workarounds and hacks. E-commerce, web applications, and complex functionalities often necessitate third-party integrations or JavaScript solutions, adding unnecessary overhead.
- Frustrating Class System: Webflow's class system, particularly combo classes, can be a nightmare to manage. Simple tasks like adding or removing classes become overly complicated, hindering developer efficiency.
- Limitations and Restrictions: Restrictions on nested collections and other features create friction and limit the potential of projects. These limitations feel particularly restrictive compared to the freedom offered by other platforms.
My New Tech Stack: A Breath of Fresh Air
After exploring various options, we've settled on a tech stack that provides the flexibility and power that we need to build exceptional websites for our clients.
- Nuxt.js for Complex Projects
For clients with complex needs, requiring API integrations and highly customised experiences, Nuxt.js is our go-to framework. Its Vue.js-based architecture is intuitive and powerful, and its module system makes it easy to integrate various functionalities.
- Developer-Friendly: Nuxt.js offers an excellent developer experience, simplifying complex tasks.
- Modular and Flexible: Easy integration of modules like Swiper, Sanity CMS, and animation libraries.
- Tailwind CSS and Shadcn Integration: Simple integration of Tailwind CSS and Shadcn UI for rapid component development.
- Shopify and WooCommerce for E-commerce
For e-commerce projects, Shopify and WooCommerce, depending on the client's needs and budget.
Shopify for Most Clients: Shopify's themes and customisation options are often sufficient for clients with moderate budgets. WooCommerce for Full Control: WooCommerce provides complete control and flexibility for clients requiring highly customised e-commerce solutions.
- Bricks Builder for WordPress
For WordPress projects, I've fallen in love with Bricks Builder. It offers a superior building experience compared to Webflow, with features like mobile-first design and flexible class management.
- Intuitive Interface: Bricks Builder provides a smooth and efficient building experience.
- Mobile-First Design: Easily design for mobile devices first, ensuring a responsive experience.
- Flexible Class System: Easily manage and reuse classes, creating a streamlined workflow.
- WordPress Flexibility: Leverage the power and flexibility of WordPress and its vast plugin ecosystem.
Addressing WordPress Concerns
I understand that some developers have concerns about WordPress security and maintenance. However, these concerns can be mitigated by using a reliable managed hosting provider like Cloudways.
Managed Hosting with Cloudways: Cloudways provides excellent security, performance, and support, taking care of server management.
The Power of Flexibility
Ultimately, the key to a successful tech stack is flexibility. By combining Nuxt.js, Shopify/WooCommerce, and Bricks Builder, we can tackle a wide range of projects with confidence, delivering high-quality, performant websites that meet our clients' unique needs.
Whilst it was hard to move away from Webflow, this new tech stack has revitalised my development experience. I'm excited to continue exploring the possibilities it offers and to build even more amazing websites for our clients.