Custom or Template Website? That Is The Question

Ah, decisions, decisions. Some are easy-coffee or tea, sneakers or boots. Others, well, they shape your entire future. Like, “Should I actually organize my files, or just keep using search?” or “Is this meeting really necessary, or could it have been an email?”

And then there’s your website. Do you go for a quick-fix template or invest in a custom design that actually fits your business? Let’s break it down-so you don’t end up regretting it like that one time you trusted autocorrect.

Well, here’s the thing-it depends! The template vs. custom design debate isn’t as clear-cut as it seems.

To help you find your perfect fit, here are a few questions to ask yourself:

• How soon do I need this site up and running?
• What’s the budget looking like?
• Do I need any unique bells and whistles for functionality?
• Is a one-of-a-kind design a must-have?
• Will I be making updates myself, or am I calling in reinforcements?
• How essential is a top-notch mobile experience?
• Is load speed and Google ranking make-or-break for me?
• Am I likely to switch things up as my business evolves?

With this Q&A test, you’ll be well on your way to deciding which path suits your brand best!

Template vs. Custom Websites: What’s the Difference?

Good question! A template website is like picking from a menu-pre-designed web page layouts that are ready to go. Platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, Shopify, and Weebly serve these up daily! Even Mailchimp’s joined the party with its own website builder.

With a template site, you (or your web team) start by choosing a theme that fits your vibe. Then, you add your own text, images, and brand flair to make it yours. Think of it as dressing up a mannequin-easy and stylish, but limited by the template’s basic shape.

Custom sites, on the other hand, are crafted entirely from scratch, without any template restrictions. Every element-design and development alike-is built specifically for your business. It’s like commissioning a tailored suit; you get a website that fits your brand perfectly, with nearly unlimited creative freedom.

Template or Custom? Let’s Play Website Matchmaker!

Feeling stuck at the crossroads? Don’t worry-these questions will help you find the perfect fit for your team and your business.

When Do I Need My Site To Go Live? How Soon Is “Soon”?

If your launch date is right around the corner and you need your site live yesterday, a template site might be your fast-track to online glory. With a ready-made foundation, template sites can often go live in just a few clicks (and a couple of weeks).

But if you’re not racing against the clock and can afford a more custom build, take the scenic route with a custom website. Built from scratch and tailored just for you, custom sites take longer but deliver something truly one-of-a-kind.

What’s Your Budget Breathing Space?

For a more budget-friendly option, template sites offer a great starting point, especially for new businesses testing the waters. They’re easy on the wallet and perfect for brands just getting their feet wet. Many businesses start here and upgrade to custom once they’re ready to go all-in.

While a custom site does come with a higher price tag, think of it as an investment. Templates, when stretched to their limits, can break, bug out, and bring hidden costs along the way. A custom site is built to fit like a glove-saving you time, money, and headaches as your business grows.

Does Your Site Need Special Bells and Whistles?

Template websites come with the basics: a contact form, gallery, blog, pre-defined animations and perhaps some standard eCommerce features if you're using platforms like Shopify or Woocommerce. But if you're dreaming of a site with interactive magic-think custom animations, product customizers, member portals, or unique user experiences-then a custom site will give your web team the freedom to build exactly what you need, no template limits in sight.

Do You Crave a Totally Unique Design?

With templates, you’re sharing the design with others (including potential competitors), which isn’t always a bad thing! A skilled web team can customize a template to reflect your brand’s personality while keeping things streamlined. But if you want your site to be unmistakably yours, a custom design with custom animations is the way to go. It’s built around your brand, letting every pixel and interaction reflect your unique style-no shoehorning into a one-size-fits-all layout.

Will You Be Making Updates Yourself?

Template sites are usually built with website builders, making updates super easy-like playing with Lego! But, just like with Lego, there’s always the risk of messing something up when you’re in a rush. Changes are quick and simple, but be careful not to knock anything out of place!

For custom sites, if built with a flexible CMS like a customized WordPress, you’re in control and in the driver’s seat! You can make changes easily without the fear of breaking anything. With the right setup from your website team, keeping your site fresh and flawless is a walk in the parκ, so you can enjoy a stress-free life in data entry.

How Crucial is Your Site’s Mobile Experience?

One of my biggest pet peeves with template sites is their unpredictability across devices. They may look fabulous on desktop but turn into a hot mess on mobile. 😬 While platforms like Squarespace do ensure templates are mobile-friendly, they don’t always allow for the same level of polish and detail as custom sites.

With a custom design, however, your web team has full control to make sure your site looks flawless from the largest desktop screen to the tiniest smartphone. Every element is optimized to create a smooth, delightful experience across all devices.

How Important are Load Speed and Google Ranking?

Let’s be real-many templates are weighed down with outdated code, which slows them down. And a slow site doesn’t just frustrate users; it can hurt your search rankings, too. Google wants sites that are quick on the draw, and sadly, many templates just don’t make the cut.

Custom sites, on the other hand, are usually built with fresh, efficient code and best practices in mind. This means faster load times, a friendlier user experience, and a serious leg up in Google’s eyes. Speed isn’t just a luxury; it’s a competitive edge. 🚀

Is Your Company Likely to Change Tactics Over Time?

Truth be told, template sites lack flexibility. Imagine you asked for football boots for your birthday, only to realize you actually wanted ice skates. Sure, you could shuffle around the rink in your cleats, but good luck keeping up with your skating pals!

Custom sites, however, are like a pair of shoes you can transform as needed. They grow with you, making it easy to add new features, update designs, or shift functionality as your business evolves. It’s flexibility designed to keep pace with your vision!

The Final Call: Your Website, Your Style!

And there you have it! Like most things in life, there’s a little give and take with every option. We hope this guide has helped bring you a step closer to your ideal website. Still on the fence? No worries-you could start with a template, get your feet wet, and upgrade to a custom site when you're ready for the full VIP treatment.

Why Custom is the Key to Uniquely You!

But let’s be honest: custom websites bring your brand to life in a way no template ever could. They’re tailored just for you, packed with personality, and built to grow alongside your business. So, if you’re looking for a digital experience that’s uniquely yours, custom is the way to go!