SiteCanvas Builds From the Ground Up

The thought of developing a rich, content-driven website can sound daunting and costly. One Los Angeles–based firm is placing the power of building a site directly into the hands of the client.

SiteCanvas, which launched in 2008, has developed a next-generation website platform that doesn’t rely on templates or the need of a developer. Through a back-end system that functions as a blank canvas, a client can build and design a site at the click of a button using SiteCanvas’s proprietary technology. Each site is customizable to the client’s needs. The company says it fills the gap between template-oriented development for cookie-cutter websites and high-cost websites that would require ongoing maintenance.

“When you make a website it’s hard to know what to do with it,” said Founder and Chief Executive Officer Brendan Kane, who has been building sites for more than a decade. “Our platform is extremely easy to use.” SiteCanvas offers digital business solutions in addition to its website technology.

SiteCanvas currently builds sites for its roster of high-profile clients, which includes celebrities such as model Adriana Lima. The company is expanding and setting it sights toward fashion and e-commerce clientele. It has built a site for Los Angeles jewelry line Friendship, Love & Peace.

The company says it is in talks with various fashion companies and is discussing how to help them create a dynamic digital experience. “The fashion and apparel industry is really excited for our tools because it’s so flexible,” Kane said. “A designer or retailer can refresh and create a new, exciting space.”

Clients can update their sites on their own via the web or utilize the company’s tech team, which includes an internal team of designers, developers and other web experts, including many who specialize in digital media, fashion and entertainment. One of the experts is Chief Strategy Officer Patricia Handschiegel, who founded fashion social-networking site StyleDiary.

Kane said while SiteCanvas’ platform is ideal for companies of all sizes, it particularly enables smaller- to mid-sized brands to be at the level of larger companies with their web presence.

“Traditionally, depending on the level of the website, it can cost $5,000 to $150,000 to build a site that is pretty static and difficult to maintain,” Kane said. According to Kane, SiteCanvas works with clients to map out what they need and want in a site. The fees can start as low as a few thousand dollars.

For more information, visit www.thesitecanvas.com.