Easy to use software please, all recommendations appreciated.
Should I use web design software or web host's design tools to create my new small business web site?
That depends on your design experience and capabilities. If you are familiar with HTML or you have experience using design software then the obvious choice is to use an html editing software.
HTML editors I recommend:
-Adobe Dreamweaver 8 - Best professional web editor however it is expensive
-CoffeeCup 2006 for Windows - Best web-design software for non-pros
-Nvu 1.0 - Free web-design software
If you are building a blog you can use something like WordPress which is a free blog system with built in templates.
You will also need a graphic design software, the two best are Adobe Fireworks or Adobe Photoshop however Fireworks is built to work directly with Dreamweaver.
I would always recommend using a design software over web hosting design tools however the choice is up to you and your comfort level plus willingness to learn how to use the software.
To Learn More About:
Adobe Dreamweaver: http://www.stohn.biz/dreamweaver.html
WordPress: http://www.stohn.biz/wordpress.html
Nvu: http://www.stohn.biz/nvu.html
HTML: http://www.stohn.biz/html.html
Should I use web design software or web host's design tools to create my new small business web site?
I suggest Microsoft's "Office Live" (It may be called small business now). it is completely free and has lots of storage space, email accounts and features, and even more are available with the not-free accounts.