The question is, is there still a need for static web design now that dynamic web design is getting so popular? Or put another way, when might a static site work better than a dynamic site?
The first thing that comes to mind is a situation where the client doesn't really want to update the site on a regular basis. Mostly because there won't be a need for regular updates. Perhaps the content is valid for long periods of time, say 6 months to a year. In that case, there wouldn't really be a need for a dynamic site. In fact, if the static site were built with some nice CSS, as most are these days, when it came time for a face lift, adding a little content could be accommodated along with a new look by changing the CSS.
I'll add more here as I think of continued good uses of static sites. If you think of any and want to add a comment, please do.
Another reason a person may want to have a static site over a dynamic site is they may want a more varied layout throughout the site than what you typically get from a dynamic site. For example, most WordPress sites, even though there is a great deal of flexibility through added plug-ins, still have a template type of layout that is pretty consistent throughout the site. The same goes for Joomla, though again it has to be recognized that there are numerous (thousands) of ways to add variety through modules and components. With a static site, page layout can be dramatically different from page to page. Whether this is a good idea depends almost completely on what the purpose of the site is.
This brings to mind one of the key differences between designing a brochure and designing a website. Even though both will need updating, there is a great deal more up-front planning that goes into website design. The differences should be explained to clients. It's kind of like this: a brochure is kind of like a picture of your dog or favorite pet. You can look at it, admire it, pass it around to your friends and eventually, it will become outdated as the dog/pet ages and in order to update it you'll need to another picture, representing your present day pet. A website, on the other hand, is like your real dog/pet. It has needs. And someone has to perform these needs, so who will that be and when will they do it? Needs like updating, maintenance, check-ups, doctor (vet) visits and so on. An over simplification to be sure, but I think you get the idea.
