Custom Web Site Design versus Templates

By Kelly Richardson
kelly.richardson@graphicdesignschoolreview.com
Graphic Design School Review Columnist

You've got a new idea for a Web site that you're convinced will bring in the traffic. So now what? The first thing you need to decide is if you are going to get a custom Web design or settle for a pre-made Web site template. Both avenues have their perks. Let's stack them side by side and see how they compare.

If you are a graphic design pro, you most likely have had a project that required you to set up a Web site for a client. Many times that client will ask you if they should purchase a custom Web site design or a ready made template. Here are some of the major benefits of both that will help your client decide.

Custom Web Design Offers Variety
Custom Web Designs are unique, offer a great deal of flexibility and fully customizable. Here are some factors to consider:

• Layout. Perhaps the biggest benefit of a custom Web site design is the fact that you can create any page layout that you can imagine with very little restrictions.
• Imaging. A custom Web design also allows you to choose the images you want to include and edit them to fit the look of your page.
• Additions. Anytime you want to add pages to your Web design to introduce new products or make a Web form available, it's easy with a custom site.

Custom Web Templates Deliver Convenience
When you think of ready-made Web site templates, you might think of boring designs and limited functioning. But to the contrary, Web site design companies have improved their templates a great deal over the past several years.

• Available. Without a doubt, the best part of a Web site design template is the fact that you can buy it pre-made and ready to be uploaded.
• Editable. Most Web site design templates have editable regions that allow you to change the copy and even some imaging.
• Updates. Companies that offer ready made templates are always updating the styles and functions for a variety of online projects.

As you can see, whether or not you should go with a custom Web site design or a ready made template is strictly a matter of preference. Consider your client's project parameters, and go with the most sensible choice.

About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.