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We keep hearing the pros and cons of each often. Here, we attempt to simplify the concepts and the benefits associated with each.

For some, templates seem like the most convenient and economical answer, especially when launching a website for a new business. In the last few years, designers have created templates that are more appealing and more functional. Templates seem to be a quick fix when you need an event site, module or a small company site. They are so affordable. Using a pre-determined design takes away the pain of describing the needs to a designer. There is something visually available as a base to begin with. A major drawback in the case of templates is the exclusivity issue - you’re not the only website using that design. The same “smiling, energetic, enthusiastic businesspeople giving the high-five” can be seen in a bunch of business websites, and who knows, in your rival’s too!

The case of a custom site: it has an attitude of abundance as it is designed around a company’s existing brand image or spun around an overall branding strategy which is intended to make your company stand out from the crowd. The site is designed with your corporate flight plan in mind to increase the likelihood that you will reach your destination on schedule. It is always easy to integrate new phases and features into the site without losing the integrity and groundwork that you have worked hard putting together for your site. As a customer, you should consider what you require your site to do for you today, as well as have the flexibility to make continual course corrections to accelerate your progress. Where do you see your business in the future? How do you see your website transitioning? The ability of a site to meet your needs along each step is essential for every growing business, and that’s a consideration that is far more valuable than any quick-fix solution. The biggest drawback of a custom site is the time and cost associated with it.

Our verdict – go for a hybrid model. Select a template and then customize it royally.

In this article, Business Week has presented 10 cardinal rules that top web designers followed to the letter T in 2008.
These 10 commandments are:
 
1.        Thou shalt not abuse Flash.
2.        Thou shalt not hide content.
3.        Thou shalt not clutter.
4.        Thou shalt not overuse glassy reflections.
5.        Thou shalt not name your Web 2.0 company with an unnecessary surplus or dearth of vowels.
6.        Thou shalt worship at the altar of typography.
7.        Thou shalt create immersive experiences.
8.        Thou shalt be social.
9.        Thou shalt embrace proven technologies.
10.     Thou shalt make content king.
 
If you want to read the full article, click on the link below.
 
The 10 Commandments of Web Design