What I Consider Before Choosing the Technology for a Website

There are a lot of technologies available today.
It's easy to get caught up in which framework, platform or programming language is currently popular.
But when I start a project, popularity isn't the first thing I consider.
The first question is: What does the business actually need?
I Start With the Requirements
I look at the type of website, expected traffic, required functionality, integrations, content, budget and timeline.
A small informational website doesn't have the same requirements as a complex application.
I Consider Who Will Manage the Website
If the business team needs to update content regularly, the solution needs to make that practical.
I Think About Future Requirements
I also ask what the website might become.
Is it likely to remain a simple website? Could it eventually need accounts, dashboards, advanced functionality or integrations?
Performance Matters
The technical choice can affect performance, but it's only one part of the equation.
Images, scripts, hosting, third-party services and implementation also matter.
Budget Matters Too
The technically most advanced option isn't always the best option.
A business needs a solution that makes sense financially as well as technically.
I Don't Choose Technology for the Sake of Technology
A developer might have a favorite framework or platform. That doesn't mean it should be used for every project.
The technology should serve the project — not the other way around.
Final Thought
I don't believe there is one technology that is best for every website.
The right choice depends on the business, the users, the requirements and the future plans.