How to allow site owner to update it

You are right, either you build a backend where the customer could add some articles, things like that, either you teach him how to add some simple HTML, or you add it yourself.

That's why as well some customers ask for exemple their website to be developed with CMS such wordpress, because they know how to use it and manage their site using it.

Hi Jacob

The best solution to allow a client to edit the site themselves would be a Content Management System (CMS). There are free options such as WordPress (which Treehouse has courses on) or paid platforms like Perch. I am a big fan of Perch as you don't have to design your entire site around it and can easily add editable areas into a site you have already made, it is very intuitive for clients (less time spent answering questions) and their support is fast and helpful. You could develop your own CMS if you are familiar with a backend language such as PHP and using databases.

Alternatively you can update the site for the client when needed. If they are making frequent edits you might suggest implementing a CMS.

This is one of the first things I discuss when I am approached to develop a site. A website with a CMS takes longer to develop and should be more valuable to the client. You can then charge appropriately based on providing a static site or one with a CMS.

I would avoid encouraging a client to directly edit the HTML/CSS of a site directly unless they have good knowledge of these already.