Today, we are going to delve into a topic that is been buzzing in the web design community - the use of templates. We have recently offered you one of our platforms, Wik.ge, which contains various templates you can choose to use for your builder. That is why we are focusing on the pros and cons in this blog. Hopefully this gives you a better idea what to look out for, before making the purchase.
The Upside of Using Templates
1. No Complex Requirements, No Small Oversights
First off, lets talk about one of the biggest advantages of using templates - simplicity. When you are building a website from scratch, there are a million little details to keep track of. From the layout and color scheme to the navigation and user interface, every element needs to be carefully considered and designed. This can be a daunting task, especially for beginners.
But with a template, all of that is taken care of. Templates come with pre-designed elements and layouts, so you do not have to worry about forgetting something or making a small mistake that spirals into completely bricking your website. You just pick a design you like, add your content, and that is it. You have a fully functional website.
2. Managing Expectations
Another great thing about templates is predictability. When you are designing a website from scratch, there is always a degree of uncertainty. Will the final product look as good as you envisioned? Will everything work as it should?
With a template, what you see is what you get. You can preview the design before you commit to it, so there are no surprises. This can save you a lot of stress and disappointment down the line.
3. No Knowledge of Web-Design Required
This one is pretty self-explanatory. If you are a business owner or a blogger with no web design experience, templates are a nice benefit. They allow you to create a professional-looking website without having to learn HTML, CSS, or JavaScript. Or even understand the basics of how a website works. All you need is a basic understanding of how to use a computer, and you are good to go.
4. Cheaper & Faster
Last but not least, templates are both time and cost-effective. Hiring a professional web designer can get real expensive, and the process can take weeks, if not multiple months. But with a template, you can have your website up and running in a matter of minutes. And the best part? It will not cost you an arm and a leg.
The Downside of Using Templates
1. Limited Personalization
Now, lets talk about the cons. The biggest drawback of using templates is the lack of customization. Sure, you can change the colors, the text, the alignment, but the overall layout and design are set in stone. If you want a website that truly reflects your brand and personality, a template might not cut it.
This lack of personalization can also affect the user experience. Templates are designed to be one-size-fits-all, but every website has different needs. What works for one might not work for another. So, while a template might look great on the surface, it might not provide the best user experience for your specific audience.
2. Limited Branding Opportunities
This ties in with the previous point. With a template, you cannot really stand out from your competition that much. Which can make it hard for your brand to establish itself and be memorable. In todays competitive online landscape, having a unique and recognizable brand is a pretty big factor.
Wrapping Up
Templates can be a great tool for getting a website up and running quickly and easily. But they do come with their own set of limitations. At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you need from your website. If you value speed and simplicity over uniqueness and customization, then templates are the way to go. But if you want a website that truly reflects your brand, you might want to consider other options.
Remember, there is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution in web design. So, take your time, weigh your options, and choose the path that best suits your desires.
GE
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