#131 AI-Built Websites, WebProud’s Birthday & The Tools Every Website Manager

In this special 50th episode of the 90-Day Website Mastery Podcast, Jonny Ross and Pascal Fintoni celebrate a major milestone whilst tackling a critical issue facing business owners today: the risks and realities of AI-built websites.

By the Numbers: 50 Episodes of Value:

• 50 questions answered from the community.
• 50 pieces of content reviewed and analysed.
• 100 tools and apps recommended.
• 100 website call-to-action suggestions provided.

This episode also marks the one-year anniversary of their book "WebProud - The 5-Step Roadmap to Feeling Proud of your Website Again!"

https://www.amazon.co.uk/WebProud-5-step-roadmap-feeling-website/dp/1068691603

The discussion explores what happens when your website designer uses AI platforms without transparency, the essential questions you must ask before commissioning any website project, and how to avoid the costly mistakes that come from unclear briefs and assumptions.

Jonny and Pascal also share two powerful tools for creating visual content, and provide actionable website adjustments you can implement immediately.

❓ My Designer Used AI to Build My Website — What Should I Do?

The Hidden Risks of AI Website Builders:

Some website designers are now using AI platforms to create websites quickly, but without proper disclosure or planning.

Common problems include: inability to update content yourself, locked-in proprietary systems, and limited future functionality.

The fundamental issue isn't AI itself — it's lack of transparency and inadequate project briefing.

Essential Questions to Ask Before Commissioning a Website:

• What platform is it built on? Understanding the content management system (CMS) is crucial for long-term flexibility.
• Who actually owns the website? Clarify ownership rights in case you need to change agencies or freelancers.
• Can I update and modify content myself? Ensure you have editing access and the ability to make changes independently.
• What's the future-proofing plan? Ask about adding features later, such as e-commerce functionality or additional pages.
• Who is building it — humans or AI? Understand the level of human expertise and oversight in the project.
• What's in the Terms & Conditions? Review all contractual agreements carefully before signing.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Brief:

• Your expertise as a business owner isn't in building websites, that's why proper briefing is essential
• Request a detailed project plan with clear stages, review points, and deliverables.
• Ask for transparency about tools, methods, and team members involved
• Use AI to help you: Ask ChatGPT or Claude to create a checklist of questions for website project vendors.

Slowing Down in the Age of Speed:

• AI's advantage is speed, but that doesn't mean you should rush decisions.
• Use the time AI saves to invest in proper due diligence, reflection, and questioning.
• Cheaper and faster doesn't always solve the problem — quality and control matter more.

📖 Celebrating One Year of WebProud: The Journey & The Book

The Evolution from Webinars to Book:

• During COVID, Jonny and Pascal launched a five-part webinar series sharing their passion for websites.
• This evolved into the 90-Day Website Mastery Podcast (now at episode 50).
• The webinar content became the foundation for their book: WebProud: The 5-Step Roadmap to Feeling Proud of Your Website Again!
• Published November 2024, launched December 2024, and became a #1 Kindle bestseller within 48...