Web Design

Custom Websites vs Templates

In the digital world, your website is your business’ face to the world.

It’s how customers learn about what you do, how to get in touch, and (most importantly) how to make a purchase. So it’s important that your website is not only up-to-date with the latest technologies but also personalized to reflect your company’s unique branding and voice.

When it comes to designing a website for your business, you have two main options: custom websites or website templates. There are plenty of pros and cons to both, so how do you know which one is best for your company?

In this article, we will take a closer look at custom websites and website templates, and we’ll help you decide which option is best for you.

Made For You: Template Websites
As the name suggests, template websites are websites that use pre-made designs and layouts. These templates can be used to create a wide variety of websites, from simple one-page sites to more complex multipage sites.

Many website builder platforms on the market today come pre-packaged with a range of templates to choose from. Sites such as WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix are all popular options that offer a wide variety of free and premium templates.

Template websites are a popular option for small businesses because they are easy to use and typically cost less than custom websites. They also come with a range of features and functions that make them versatile and customizable.

What Are The Pros of Template Websites?
Template-based websites offer fast and easy setup, making them perfect for busy small businesses. They are also affordable, typically costing less than custom websites.

Having the ability to drag-and-drop content and images makes template websites easy to use and helps you to create a website that looks and feels like your own.

Plus, many templates come with built-in features such as video players, photo galleries, and contact forms – so you don’t need to purchase any additional plugins or software.

What Are The Cons of Template Websites?
However, there is a lack of uniqueness and customizability within many of these templates. You lack access to the insides of the template – leaving you at the mercy of the template designer.

Template websites also offer limited design and branding options, which can be a problem for businesses that want to create a unique identity online. Many templates are limited in their layout options and font choices, which can make it difficult to create a website that looks professional and polished.

Template Websites May Be Right If:

1. You are looking for an easy and affordable way to create a website.
2. You want a website that is versatile and easy to use.
3. You don’t need too many design or branding customization options.
4. You have a limited budget.

From The Ground Up: Custom Websites
While template websites can offer a lot of features and functions, they can often feel generic and uninspired. This is where custom websites come in.
A custom website is a website that is designed specifically for your business by a professional web designer. It will be built from scratch, using your logo, branding, and style guidelines.

The great thing about custom websites is that they can be completely tailored to your needs and wants. You have full control over the design, layout, and functionality of your website – which means you can create a website that is truly unique to you.

The Power of Control
What template websites lack is access to the code and inner workings of the template. This means that you are limited in what you can do with the design and layout of your website. With a custom website, you have full control over every aspect of the design, which gives you greater flexibility and creativity.

If you don’t build a custom website, you may miss out on essential design features that can help to improve the user experience and conversions of your website:

1. Personalized Branding:
   A custom website allows you to create a unique brand identity that represents your business. You can use your logo,
   colors, and style guidelines to create a professional and polished website.
2. Improved User Experience:
   A well-designed custom website will be easy to navigate and use. With a custom website, you have full control over the layout and design of your
   website, which means you can create a user experience that is tailored to your target audience.
3. Increased Conversions:
   A custom website is more likely to convert visitors into customers because it is designed specifically for your business. It uses the latest
   technologies and functions, which means that it is more likely to meet the needs of your target audience.

The Pros of Custom Websites
A custom website is more expensive than a template website, but it offers greater value and long-term success:

1. A professional web designer designs a custom website specifically for your business.
2. It will be built from scratch, using your logo, branding, and style guidelines.
3. You have full control over your website’s design, layout, and functionality.
4. A custom website is more likely to convert visitors into customers.
5. It uses the latest technologies and functions, which means that it is more likely to meet the needs of your target audience.

The Cons of Custom Websites
This doesn’t mean that custom websites are perfect – there are a few downsides to consider:

1. Custom websites are more expensive than template websites.
2. They require more maintenance and updates, as they are not based on a pre-made template.
3. It can take longer to build a custom website, as it is designed specifically for your business.
4. You may need to hire a professional web designer to create and maintain your website.

How to Choose the Best Option for Your Business
So, which option is best for your business? The key is knowing your goals and your resources:

Template websites offer the ability to quickly build and launch websites without the need for design or coding experience. They are perfect for businesses that want a functional website quickly and don’t have the budget to invest in a custom website.

Custom websites offer greater flexibility and control over the design and layout of your website, but they are more expensive and require more maintenance. They are perfect for businesses that want a professional and polished website with unique features and functionality.

Plus, you can easily integrate eCommerce capabilities, enhanced SEO, and custom tracking and reporting tools with custom websites. Having the ability to track and report on website activity is essential for businesses that want to measure the success of their website.

If you’re still not sure which option is best for you, contact a professional web design company for advice. They can help you to assess your needs and goals and recommend the best option for your business.

Build A Powerful Customer Website Today with Standout
If you are ready to take your website to its full potential, Standout can help.

As a digital marketing and design firm, we are equipped to help you build the perfect website for your business – whether it’s a custom website or a template website. We offer a full range of services, including web design, web development, SEO, and social media marketing.

When your website is the primary source of marketing and sales for your business, it’s important to make sure it’s built for success. Standout can help you achieve that success with a website designed to meet your target audience’s needs and help you achieve your business goals.