Custom Web Design vs. Template: What's Best for Your Glasgow Business?

Did you know that 94% of first impressions relate to your site’s web design? 

This underlines that the web design choices you make will significantly impact your business's digital marketing strategy. That’s why it's important to be mindful of your future needs–whether choosing a custom website design or a template one.

In this blog, we’ve outlined the key insights into both custom website designs and templates, laying out their unbiased pros and cons. Hopefully, by the end you'll have a clearer understanding of which option aligns best with your requirements. Let’s get started!
 

What is custom web design?

Before we kick things off, let’s define what a custom website design really is. 

Custom web design is one that is created entirely from scratch, without relying on a template. It’s what gives certain websites a unique, fresh look, increased flexibility, and easier software integrations. 

However, in some platforms, like WordPress, a custom website design cannot be developed. Many organisations, especially large businesses and our clients opt for custom sites due to their proven effectiveness in driving sales and fostering business growth compared to templates.

How? Let’s put it this way–your custom website design is tailor-made for your business's website. Unlike templates, you won't find yourself spending money on features or functionalities that are irrelevant. 

With a custom website design, you start with a blank canvas, constructing each functionality your business requires from the ground up. While this process may be time-consuming and potentially more expensive than using a template, it surely gives your brand’s website a unique and precisely tailored solution. 

If you lack knowledge when it comes to creating an engaging website design and development, hiring web designers in Glasgow might be helpful for creating a custom website.  

Now, let's talk about the advantages and disadvantages of opting for a custom website.
 

Benefits of using a custom web design

Let’s discover how using a custom web design for your website can elevate your small business or even the big ones, from precision crafting to fortified security and continuous support. 
 

Disadvantages of custom web design

1. Involves a potentially lengthy and costly development process.
2. Requires coordinated contributions from web design agency, developers, quality assurance (QA) specialists, and digital marketing specialists.
    

What is a template website design?

A website template is a pre-designed layout or framework that serves as the foundation for creating a website. It involves using an existing platform that offers ready-to-use designs and functionalities, creating websites based on predefined templates. 

Templates streamline the website development process by providing built-in options, eliminating the need for extensive coding. Platforms like WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace offer a variety of themes and templates for businesses to choose from. 

While templates offer quick setup and ease of use, they come with limitations, especially when it comes to future design updates. Most templates have predetermined functionalities, and customisation options might be limited. 

So, why use a template at all? Well, a themed approach is cost-effective and time-efficient for simpler websites with minimal customisation needs. This allows businesses to allocate resources to improve their digital marketing strategy, ensuring effective customer attraction, engagement, and conversion instead.

However, templates may pose challenges over time, such as increased loading times or other issues. Some web design companies may not include ongoing support and maintenance services when using templates, as they may lack familiarity with or knowledge of the underlying code. 

Let's lay out all the advantages and disadvantages of using website templates:
 

How we design websites at Inspire Digital in Glasgow

At Inspire Digital, our approach to web design for our Glasgow clients is centred around delivering unique, tailored solutions that cater to the diverse needs and budgets of our clients. That's whether you're opting for our budget friendly Ignite product or a fully custom WordPress build, we ensure that each of our clients’ website stands out, providing a distinct online identity for every client.

We understand the common apprehension towards templates, and that's why we leverage tools like the Avada Theme for WordPress. Even within the realm of templates, no two sites are alike. 

Our clients never walk away feeling like they have a replicated website. Avada, with its blank canvas, offers limitless possibilities, allowing us to fulfil client visions across various budget ranges, typically falling between £500 and £10,000. 

Now for those seeking a premium, non-WordPress alternative, we introduce Craft CMS. Craft is a remarkable solution that secures all visual elements while empowering users, even those with minimal technical knowledge, to easily edit content without disrupting the website's front end. 

In our pursuit of meeting diverse client requirements, we do provide Craft clones. These clones, while maintaining individuality in terms of content and imagery, essentially replicate another client's site. However, it's important to note that such clones come with limitations – typically around 10 predefined layout features. 

Any further customisations require additional investments, a facet we transparently communicate with our clients. This range of services caters to budgets ranging from approximately £4,000 to £100,000 and beyond, ensuring that Inspire Digital is equipped to meet the distinct needs of businesses across various scales.
 

Choosing between custom websites and templates: What's the right fit for you?

When it comes to building your website, the decision between a custom website and a template depends on you, your budget, time constraints, and specific design requirements.
 

Custom website

If you have the flexibility of budget and time, a custom website is the optimal choice. Although it may involve a higher initial cost, the benefits include extensive customisation, enhanced SEO potential, scalability, heightened security, distinct brand identity, and an improved user experience. 

Investing in a custom website can lead to long-term savings and a unique online presence.
 

Website template

For those with limited time and budget constraints or without specific design preferences, a website template offers a quick and affordable solution. 

It's an excellent choice for individuals without coding knowledge who need a basic website to showcase their business.

However, it's important to be aware that while template websites are cost-effective and easy to set up, they may lack the level of customisation found in custom websites. They often require additional maintenance and third-party plugins to function properly. 

Moreover, templates can impose limitations on expressing your brand, utilising features, and accommodating growth. While they may seem like a budget-friendly option initially, the potential long-term costs should be considered.

 

Talk to web designers in Glasgow

Whether you're leaning towards a custom website or exploring template options, we're here to guide you. Our web designers at Inspire Digital in Glasgow are ready to discuss your unique business needs, answer your questions, and provide insights tailored to your goals. Have a look at our portfolio here. 

Take the next step in enhancing your digital presence. Reach out to us today for a formal, no-obligation chat. Your vision is our priority, and we're excited to bring it to life online!