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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.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 16th, 2009 at 10:50 am and is filed under Website Design. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.