Top 7 Most Frustrating Things in Google Sites and How to Fix Them

Google Sites, a popular tool within Google Workspace (& Personal Gmail), offers a user-friendly builder to create and maintain websites. However, Google Sites has its own challenges and limitations (just like any tool). Let's dive into the top 7 most frustrating things in Google Sites and I'll provide solutions to fix them.

Limited Customization Options

Frustration: The customization options in Google Sites are limited compared to other website builders, restricting advanced design customizations and detailed control over page layouts.

Solution: Use built-in themes and tweak them as much as possible.. For further customization, consider embedding custom HTML, CSS and Javascript through embedded code or using Google Apps Script for additional styling.

Template Limitations

Frustration: The available templates are basic and offer little flexibility, making it difficult to significantly alter the structure or aesthetics to fit specific needs.

Solution: Explore third-party templates designed for Google Sites, such as those offered by SitesTemplates.net. These templates provide more sophisticated designs and structures.

Lack of Advanced Features

Frustration: Google Sites lacks advanced features like e-commerce capabilities, complex forms, and advanced analytics, requiring reliance on third-party integrations.

Solution: Integrate third-party services like PayPal, Shopify, or JotForm to incorporate advanced features. Embed these services directly into your Google Site using iframes or embed codes.

Navigation Issues

Frustration: Creating a complex navigation structure can be cumbersome, with challenges in building multi-level menus or dropdowns for larger sites.

Solution: Manually create a more complex navigation structure by linking pages within the site. For multi-level menus, create a navigation page with links to subpages.

SEO Limitations

Frustration: SEO features are basic, with limited control over meta tags, headers, and other SEO elements, impacting the site's visibility on search engines.

Solution: Manually add SEO elements where possible. Use descriptive titles, headers, and meta descriptions. Optimize content with keywords and use alt text for images. Leverage external SEO tools for additional insights and optimizations.

Integration Issues

Frustration: While Google Sites integrates well with other Google Services such as Youtube, Google Docs, integration with non-Google services can be difficult and sometimes not possible.

Solution: One easiest way is to use iframes,  embed as full page or insert custom coe to incorporate services that do not natively integrate with Google Sites. Plus, you can google it to find third-party widgets and tools that can be embedded into your Google Sites.

Mobile Responsiveness

Frustration: Although Google Sites automatically adjust for mobile devices, the level of control over mobile-specific design elements is limited, leading to less optimal user experiences on mobile devices.

Solution: You may want to check your site on multiple devices and make adjustments accordingly. Use tools like Search Console's mobile usability report to identify and fix issues. Focus on creating a simple, clean design that works well on mobile.

Transform Your Google Site Today

Don't limit yourself to utilizing google sites default templates and build on top of it. Find premium and free Google Sites Templates and see the full potential of Google Sites and build outstanding websites. Check out SitesTemplates.net today to browse through their selection of personalized Google Sites templates and learn how their professional services can enhance your online visibility.

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