When setting up a new website, one of the first decisions you’ll have to make is whether to use a website template or opt for a custom design. While templates offer a quick, easy, and often more affordable way to get your site up and running, they do come with some limitations. Before you start sifting through your favourite themes, read on below:
What are the Drawbacks of Using Website Templates?
Limitations of Being Picky
With a custom-built website, every detail is tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Website design companies work closely with you to create a site that perfectly represents your brand. However, when using a template, you don’t have the same level of control. Despite the thousands of templates available, finding one that matches your unique business style and requirements can be challenging.
Customisation Constraints
Although templates come with customisation options, they only offer so much flexibility. For instance, images often need to fit specific dimensions, and text blocks might have character limits. Even platforms like WordPress, known for their customisable themes, have certain constraints that limit how much you can tweak the template.
Fixed Code Structure
Unlike custom web designs where developers have full access to the code, tampering with a template’s code can cause serious issues. If you’re not technically savvy, it’s best to stick to the built-in customisation options and stay away from the code.
Content Management Challenges
One significant advantage of custom websites is their user-friendly content management systems (CMS). With custom designs, developers and designers ensure that even the least tech-savvy team members can manage the website content easily. They ensure consistent styling and responsiveness across various browsers and devices, even as you add new content to your site over time.
What is Custom Web Design?
Custom designed websites allow you to mould your online presence according to your brand identity, products, and services – without needing to know how to code! For businesses seeking ultimate flexibility, scalability, and performance, custom design is the way to go.
Custom web designs can be fully integrated with leading CMS platforms like WordPress, Drupal, and Ecommerce plugins and platforms like WooCommerce and Shopify. This integration offers a seamless user experience and makes managing your online store a breeze.
Pros of Custom Web Design
Unique Design
A custom website design ensures that your site will be unique and stand out from the competition. You won’t have to worry about another business having a similar website.
Scalability
As your business grows, your website needs might change. Custom websites are built with scalability in mind, allowing for easy updates and additions as your business evolves.
Optimised for Search Engines
Custom-built websites can have Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) implemented from the ground up. This means your website will have a better chance of ranking high on search engine results pages, driving more traffic to your site.
Better User Experience
With a custom website, you have the ability to create an optimal user experience tailored to your target audience. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and conversions.
Cons of Custom Web Design
Higher Up-front Cost
Custom websites often come with a higher initial cost compared to templates. The cost can increase depending on the complexity of the design and functionalities you want to add.
Time-consuming
Since a custom website is built from scratch, it takes much longer to build, test, and make sure that the site is running well compared to template sites which can be up and running within a few hours.
Finding the Right Team
It can be challenging to find the right design and development team that understands your vision and can execute it effectively.
Maintenance and Updates
Custom websites may require more maintenance and updates, which could lead to additional costs over time.
Revamp Time
If you decide to revamp your custom website, it can take a significant amount of time due to the need for intensive code and testing.
Limited Knowledge or Expertise
If you’re not tech-savvy, managing and updating a custom website can be difficult without the help of a professional web developer.
Risk of Cyber Attacks and Data Breaches
Like all websites, custom websites come with risks such as cyber attacks and data breaches.
Remember, even though custom websites has its drawbacks, it also offers unique benefits like full customisation, better SEO potential, scalability, enhanced security, and a stronger brand identity. Whether you choose a custom design or a template largely depends on your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise.
If you need professional help with custom web design, consider reaching out to web design agencies that specialise in custom designs. They can guide you through the process and help you create a website that suits your business needs.
Pros of Using Website Templates
Cost-Effective
Website templates are typically much cheaper than custom-built websites. This makes them a good option for startups and small businesses with tight budgets.
Quick Deployment
Since the design and layout are already done, you can get your website up and running in a much shorter time compared to a custom-built site.
Ease of Use
Many website templates come with intuitive design interfaces that even non-tech savvy individuals can navigate. This means you can manage and update your website without needing to understand complex coding.
Built-In Features
Website templates often come with built-in features like contact forms, image galleries, and social media integrations. This can save you time and effort in adding these functionalities yourself.
Professional Designs
Many website templates are designed by professionals, ensuring an aesthetically pleasing and functional design.
Frequent Updates
Website template providers often release updates to ensure compatibility with the latest technology and web standards. This can save you from potential security risks and compatibility issues down the line.
Community Support
If you choose a popular website template, there’s a high chance that you can find support from the community of users who are using the same template. You can learn from their experiences and solutions.
Cons of Using a Website Template
Same Look and Feel
One of the main drawbacks of using a website template is that many other websites may be using the same template. This can make your site look generic and fail to stand out from the crowd.
Limited Functionality
Templates come with built-in features and functionality. While this might be sufficient for some businesses, others might find these features limiting and not meet their specific needs.
Slow Load Times
Some templates come with bloated code or unnecessary features that can slow down your website. Slow load times can negatively impact user experience and search engine rankings.
Potential Compatibility Issues
Templates may not always be compatible with all browsers or devices. This could lead to display issues, negatively impacting the user’s experience.
Taking the Next Step with Design Point Digital
The decision between using a website template or opting for a custom design ultimately depends on your specific business needs. While a template can meet the needs of some businesses, others with more complex and unique requirements might benefit more from a customised web design.
If you’re after a future-proof, mobile-responsive site with a seamless design across all devices, it might be time to get in touch with our professional team at Design Point Digital. Our expert team of custom web designers in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth are ready to assist wherever your business is located.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more generic and affordable solution, a template design might be the best route for you!
Regardless of which path you choose, Design Point Digital is here to help ensure your online presence and Ecommerce website design accurately reflect your brand and cater to your customers for optimal results. Our team will work with you to develop a strategy that aligns with your goals and drives success for your business.
Remember, while templates can provide a quick and easy solution, they may not offer the flexibility and customisation that a growing business needs. Always weigh the pros and cons before making your decision, and don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals for guidance. Your website is a critical component of your business, and it deserves the time and attention necessary to make it shine.