2020 Review of CCH Site Builder

From the 2020 reviews of website builders for accounting firms.

CCH Site Builder from Wolters Kluwer is best-suited for small to mid-sized accounting firms that use other CCH applications from Wolters Kluwer, although the application can also be used as a stand-alone website builder if desired.

Designed to create a website in minutes, users can choose from a variety of styles, headers, and system navigation tools immediately upon signing into the application, with the option to change any of the chosen details at any time. Once users choose the homepage design, simply click on the Next tab to view the sample options for all pages which include a dashboard, firm information page, an information center which offers access to an events calendar, , links to IRS forms and publications, as well as premium content options.

In addition to the default content that can be used when setting up the website, users have the option to add custom touches such as their company logo, as well as custom links.

CCH Site Builder includes a variety of images which can be used in the creation of the site, or users can upload their own images if desired. To have a website up and operational quickly, users can create a basic site in minutes and later spend additional time customizing the site to better reflect the firm.

CCH Site Builder includes a variety of standard pages including the Welcome Page, which can be completely customized to reflect firm branding, and the Firm Profile Page allows users to provide website visitors with information about the firm, the partners, and even the staff. One of the most important pages is the Client Services Page, which allows users to create a complete list of services offered, with a default listing of more than 40 types of services offered. The Info Center Page provides clients with a place to access and download tax forms and publications, access a calendar of firm events, with an option to purchase additional content. The Newsletter page is can be a useful resource for any accounting firm, with a professionally written articles appearing in the newsletter each month.  There is also an option to create custom newsletter content or add premium content to the page. The Financial Tools page provides clients access to more than 200 interactive calculators, with users able to choose which calculators they wish to appear on the site.

CCH Site Builder also includes the Tax Guide, which contains more than 500 pages of detailed explanations on a wide variety of tax issues, and the Business Owner’s Toolkit provides tools and resources for growing any small business.

CCH Site Builder includes free domain hosting with any website, with 5 email addresses included, with the option to purchase additional email addresses if desired.  

For firms looking for help with social media and marketing, CCH Site Builder offers tools such as the lead generator which can be used to collect contact information on prospective clients. The website can also connect with various social media sites including Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Twitter, with connection completed during the initial setup process.

CCH Site Builder also integrates with third party applications such as PayPal for easy online payment options, while the CCH FileShare module can be used with Site Builder to allow clients and firms to share documents safely and securely. CCH Site Builder also integrates with CCH Axcess Portal, for easy file management. 

CCH Site Builder offers toll-free telephone support during extended business hours, with email support available as well. New users will appreciate the website wizard, which guides new users through the entire website setup process, while the Help option in CCH Site Builder offers detailed instructions on how to complete the initial website as well as tips for keeping it updated. 

CCH Site Builder is a good fit for small to mid-sized accounting firms that use other CCH applications from Wolters Kluwer, though the application can be used as a stand-alone website building tool if desired. A free, 30-day trial is available to try out prior to purchasing, or interested parties can view a demo upon request. All pricing is available directly from CCH Site Builder upon request.

Strengths:

• Good fit for those using other CCH applications
• Free, 30-day trial is available
• Offers online payment options

Potential Limitations:

• Portal only available as an add-on

2020 Rating: 4.75 Stars