Can ChatGPT create a website—and should it?
Let’s get the big question out of the way: Yes, ChatGPT can create a website. But should it? That’s where things get interesting.
With the rise of AI, more people are turning to tools like ChatGPT to build websites from scratch. Prompts like “Create a 5-page website for a bakery” actually produce decent HTML/CSS or even WordPress-ready content. Magic, né?
But as with anything in tech, just because you can doesn’t mean you should.
Let’s unpack the pros, the limitations, and when to leave it to the pros (like us at Bietjie).
Can ChatGPT build a website?
Technically, yes. It can:
- Write HTML/CSS/JavaScript code
- Suggest layouts and structures
- Generate dummy content or copy
- Provide SEO tips or metadata
- Create wireframes or page plans (via text)
If you feed it detailed instructions, it can even build out complete multi-page structures and generate Elementor-compatible copy. Pretty impressive, right?
So, what’s the catch?
AI isn’t magic—it’s a tool. And like all tools, it works best in skilled hands.
Here’s where ChatGPT falls short:
- No visual design skills
ChatGPT doesn’t “see” layouts. It won’t create a visually beautiful interface, choose colours that work with your branding, or select image placements that feel natural. It’s code, not creativity. - No brand understanding
It can’t deeply understand your business voice, market positioning, or what sets you apart from your competitors. It’ll give you a website—but not YOUR website. - Zero testing
ChatGPT doesn’t test responsiveness, page speed, or browser compatibility. You’ll still need a developer to troubleshoot issues. - Limited integration
Want e-commerce with WooCommerce? Tracking with GA4? A slick blog with custom fields? ChatGPT might get you 60% there—but not the polish or functionality you need to go live confidently.
Where ChatGPT shines
Planning: Structuring your site map, outlining key pages, and suggesting features
Copywriting: Drafting service descriptions, headlines, and FAQs
Brainstorming: Taglines, calls to action, or blog topics
Assisting developers: Generating code snippets, writing functions, or solving bugs
So yes, ChatGPT is a brilliant assistant. But it’s not your website designer, developer, or strategist.
Should you use ChatGPT for your site?
If you’re a dev looking to speed up repetitive tasks—go for it.
If you’re building a personal site or MVP—sure, it can help.
If you’re a business relying on your website to generate leads, sell products, or build trust? Get a professional.
Because your website isn’t just digital real estate. It’s your shopfront, your brand, your first impression. And you want that done right.
ChatGPT is a powerful tool that can help with content, code, and even SEO planning—but it’s not a substitute for strategy, experience, or good design. Use it to support your web project. Just don’t let it run the show.
Want a site that’s part custom, part clever, and fully Bietjie?
Let’s build something that works—by humans, with a little AI magic sprinkled in.