Comparing Templates and Custom Designed Websites
So you’re eager to build your website but don’t know where to start. Or maybe you’ve begun doing it yourself and found yourself in over your head. There are a lot of ads on podcasts and TV platforms that sell this DIY approach, but of course, it’s going to look easy, and you’ll want to tread lightly.
You might have considered hiring a web designer, and you’re now stuck between a template-based website and a custom-designed website. That decision doesn’t have to be complicated. Allow me to break down the two directions, and keep reading to find out which option is best for you.
The Basics
Website platforms are in abundance, and there are a few that you might be familiar with. Squarespace targets consumers looking for a quick website that is ready as soon as you sign up and plug in your business information. WordPress might scare you if you’ve been on the platform before, but more than likely, it was using a readily available theme that caused more problems than it was worth. Webflow might have sold you on the idea that “no coding is required” and “drag and drop” all of your assets, but then you have an unorganized mess.
It’s important to note that all the above ideas have become so common, but it’s not the platform’s mistake. We shouldn’t treat template-based and custom-designed websites like those before them.
TL;DR
At Capeder Co, we build on one platform and design for a handful of others. We can work from a theme or design a custom theme while our partners code the website. These platforms include Squarespace, Shopify, Webflow, and WordPress.
To Consider
Before you get to the design of the website, let’s find out what features the website needs.
Specific needs: Do you need a website that acts as a digital business card or brochure that tells a story and shares your services with potential clients? Are you selling one or many products and require tools for order fulfillment, bookkeeping and marketing? Do you intend to stand apart from competitor websites, or do complete familiarity and simplicity speak to your audience?
Timeline — Do you need the website to be launched yesterday, or do you need to ensure the product launch is carried out smoothly and without mishaps?
Budget — Have you invested in a brand identity and have some leftover funds for a quick website? Is the website your primary source of revenue and requires conversion rates that allow your business to grow?
Template-based Website
Pre-designed templates are available on multiple platforms, such as Squarespace. You can also start from a blank canvas, which is how we design most often at Capeder Co. A template will have a set number of pages, such as a home page, about, contact, and blog options. You can customize the colors, fonts, and layouts to match your unique brand.
When to consider a template or theme:
If you’re just starting out and want to get a feel for running your business online, you can always return to the website. It’s best to focus your budget on crafting a sound brand identity while launching a simple landing page.
You’re selling only one product and need a site to market and tell a story about it.
Ultimately, customization is limited, and your website will probably end up looking like many others that you see often. Don’t let that steer you away from Squarespace, however. Like building a custom design, we can incorporate CSS and other code styling to take a template to the next level.
Custom-designed Website
The other option is a custom-designed website built from scratch by a web designer who considers your specific needs and preferences. The design is completely original and can revolve around your brand identity, with endless opportunities for functions and flair.
Our team thoughtfully creates the design you receive without the limitations of pre-made templates to cater to your brand’s specific needs.
Your team can edit the website’s content, which is locked to a point that prevents accidental changes to the design.
Integrating custom third-party services makes your site look seamless, not pieced together.
Your customers will have an on-brand and unique experience
Our dedicated support team is here to assist you as your business grows.
The design provides a solid foundation for your business to build and expand upon.
Nevertheless, custom-designed websites are considerably more expensive and require more time to plan and build than template-based websites. Josh Capeder serves as the strategist and designer, while his local partners develop the site in a manner that allows for complete freedom from the coding already involved in a template.
Ultimately, deciding between a template-based website and a custom-designed one depends on your budget, timeline, and specific needs. We’re here to clarify questions this may give you!
