Short answer: React is a widely used JavaScript library for building websites out of reusable pieces called components. Next.js is a framework built on React. We use them because they let us build fast, custom sites that serve ready-made pages to visitors and search engines, without the plugin pile-up common on template platforms. You don't need to know any of this to own a great website, but it helps to know what you're paying for.
What Is React?
React describes itself as "the library for web and native user interfaces." It was created at Meta (Facebook) and is open source. Next.js, made by Vercel, is "the React framework". It adds the pieces a full website needs, such as page routing and the ability to generate pages ahead of time.
The Strategic Solutions website itself is built with React and Next.js.
What Does It Mean for My Business?
- Speed. Pages can be generated ahead of time and served as ready-made HTML, which helps with load times and Google's Core Web Vitals.
- Fewer moving parts. There's no stack of third-party plugins to update every month, which means less that can break.
- A truly custom design. Your site isn't limited to what a theme allows.
- Room to grow. Booking, integrations, ecommerce and new sections can be added without starting over.
What Are Reusable Components?
A component is a self-contained building block, like a service card, a review, a contact form or a pricing table. Build it once and reuse it everywhere. When you change it, it updates everywhere. For you, that means a consistent look across every page and faster, cheaper changes later.
Is a React Site Good for SEO?
It can be very good, if it's built right. Search engines need to see your content in the page's HTML. With Next.js, pages are rendered ahead of time or on the server, so the full text, titles and links are there when Google crawls the page. What still matters most is the same as on any platform: helpful content, clear titles, fast mobile pages and good local signals. Our SEO guide covers those basics.
What Are the Trade-Offs?
We'd rather you hear these from us:
- Editing. Without a content management system (CMS), text changes usually go through a developer. Our Gold package includes a CMS, and smaller sites typically just send us occasional updates billed hourly. There's no required monthly fee.
- Fewer DIY plugins. You can't install a widget from a marketplace in two clicks. Features are built in or integrated by a developer.
- You need a developer you trust. Make sure you own your domain and receive the site's code.
When Is Another Platform a Better Fit?
If you want to edit every page yourself daily, run a large blog with many authors, or need a specific WordPress plugin, a different setup may suit you better. We also work with WordPress, Vue, PHP, Angular and other tools, and we'll recommend whatever fits your needs and budget. See Professional Website or DIY Builder for a broader comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to learn React to own a React website? A: No. You'll get training and documentation at launch, and you can contact us for updates whenever you need them.
Q: Is a React website more expensive? A: Not necessarily. Our packages start at $1,000, and fully custom builds start at $2,500. See our packages.
Q: Can I move my site to another developer later? A: Yes. React is widely used, so another React developer can pick up the code.
Talk to a Developer
Curious whether a custom React site makes sense for your business? Strategic Solutions is a Minneapolis web design and development studio, and we'll talk through options on a free 30-minute consultation.
Email: Ben@StrategicSolutionsLabs.com
Book online: request your free 30-minute consultation. We reply within 24 hours.