What is a web template?
Since WordPress or Magento became popular, more than 15 years ago, some entrepreneurs saw the opportunity that these systems offered to create a set of pages and functions that would be the starting point for anyone who wanted to build a new website. Templates were born.
Subsequently, these templates became more sophisticated, including plugins and new features, and using systems that had become a de facto standard, such as WooCommerce.
Is a web template the same as a website builder?
No. The web template is the same as the website builder?
No. A web template is a set of design, layout and programming that can be used on a given platform. As we have mentioned, the best known are those that are integrated into WordPress.
A website generator is an environment that allows, in a simple way, the creation of websites. Most of them use, nowadays, drag and drop technology. Certainly, in most of them there are templates on which you can generate your website. The best known are Wix, Ionos (former 1&1) and Site 123.
Where can I buy them
?
Many are the Marketplaces that offer WordPress templates nowadays. One of the most recognized is Envatomarket (themeForest). Others are Template Monster, ThemePlanet and MojoMarketPlace.
Advantages and disadvantages of using templates
.
There are advantages and disadvantages to using templates that you should be aware of before making a decision on how to approach your project
.
Advantages
.
The development process is accelerated.
The development process is accelerated.
The development process is accelerated.
The template provides a structure that can be useful if we don’t know how to structure the site we want to create ourselves.
It costs less than the cost of developing your own environment.
They are available as specialised templates.
There are specialised templates for different sectors.
Specialised templates for different sectors are available.
Specialised templates for different sectors.
Disadvantages
We must adapt to the template to a large extent. Otherwise, our development becomes a bespoke development.
The template constrains us. It is not advisable to make many changes, because of the complexity of getting to know the template in depth.
And, in my opinion, the one with the most disadvantages: the template kills the personality of the company. No matter how much we are told it can be adapted, we will repeat again and again, it has to be done to a limit. Taking it further turns the project into a bespoke project.
When should you and when shouldn’t you use a template to implement your website?
When should you and when shouldn’t you use a template to implement your website?
This is the question that many companies should ask themselves once they are at the starting point. The use of a template should not just be a question of economics or implementation time.
You should not use a template if
.
Your website is a business generator, either in the form of an online shop or a lead generator.
You should not use a template if
Your website is a business generator.
You have a lot of particular functionality that you need to respect.
You have a lot of particular functionality that you need to respect.
You want a website with its own personality. Web design is important or you use the growth design technique.
Your website will grow.
Your website will grow in visits or in functionality.
The technology used is important for the growth of your website.
The technology used is important, you want a website that is optimised and that you understand.
The SEO positioning is strategic.
The SEO positioning is strategic.
You should use a template if
.
Differentiating yourself is not a priority, you stick to what the template offers you.
You want to make a difference
You want to make a difference
.
You want to shorten implementation times.
You want to shorten implementation times.
You want to tighten your budget.
You don’t expect to be on a budget.
You don’t expect the website to grow in volume or functionality.
You don’t care about the technology used.
You don’t care about the technology used.
Conclusions
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If you are generating a website as a proof of concept of a new business, it is a business with little internet presence or your strategy is linked to link building, SEM or social networks, a template can be a good solution.
If your business is linked to the online world, if your website is important to generate business (ecommerce or leads), if it will be a website that will incorporate new and important functionality in the future or if you want to have a solid personality, you need your marketing agency to shape your website from the beginning.