Custom Website vs. Template: Which Is Right for Your Business?

In an increasingly digital world, the company website is the first touchpoint for potential customers. So, when you hire the Techtio web design team to create your site, one of the first decisions you have to make is choosing between custom web design vs. template.

Most of our clients do not know the difference between the two and which option makes the most sense for their business. If you are facing the same issue, this article is for you. Read on to understand the main differences between custom website design vs. template site building.

What Is a Custom Website?

A custom website is built specifically for your business from the ground up. Instead of using pre-made templates, our team of web designers and developers create every aspect of your site according to your exact specifications and requirements.

Imagine going to an architect and telling them exactly how you want your house to look, versus choosing from a list of ready-made architectural designs. This is exactly how creating a custom website works.

How We Create Your Site Using Website Templates

The other possibility in terms of website building is choosing a website template. These are pre-designed layouts, which you can choose and customize to a degree. This is a more affordable option (more on this issue later in this article), which also ensures that your website will be ready faster.

Templates provide a framework to which our team adds your content, brand colours, and images. However, you may not change the structure of the layout or add various new functions.

Pros and Cons of Website Templates

At this point, you may believe that choosing a ready-made template is the best option for your business. However, you must understand both its advantages and its limitations.

Advantages:

• Cost-effective: Templates typically cost within the range of hundreds of Euros, making them budget-friendly
• Quick launch: You can get your site up and running in weeks instead of months
• Predictable result: What you see in the demo is generally what you’ll get

Disadvantages:

• Limited uniqueness: Thousands of other sites may use the same template
• Functionality constraints: You’re restricted to what the template allows
• Scalability issues: Templates may not be capable of expansion to suit a growing business (for example, adding an ecommerce section or chatbots)
• SEO limitations: the template may not be optimized for your specific needs

The Main Benefits of Custom Web Design

Let us now discuss the reasons why you should choose a custom website vs. template. First of all, a custom site will allow you to express your unique brand image and values. Everything, from the layout of each page, the navigation menu and the color palette, is specifically created according to your style guide.

Other important benefits of custom web design include:

• Scalability: Designed to grow with your business
• Performance optimisation: Built specifically for your content and functionality
• Competitive advantage: Stand out from competitors who are using templates
• Specific functionality: Incorporate exactly the features your business needs.

However, you have to plan for an adequate budget to enjoy these benefits. Custom web design cost typically ranges between several thousand and tens of thousands of Euros.

Undecided between Custom Website vs. Template? Let Techtio Help You Choose!

Choosing how to build your website is a critical business decision. While a template is a more affordable and easier-to-launch option, a custom website allows you to express your brand values and plan for future growth.

When in doubt, discuss your options with the Techtio team. We will explain to you the pros and cons of website template and the benefits of custom web design. Depending on your budget and your company’s development plan, we will help you make the right choice. Contact us today and let’s start building your website!