In 2018, it’s not enough for your website to just be functional and provide information; the design of your website is also important. Your website design could be the deciding factor for your potential customers on whether they’re going to buy from you. As a small business, this can be concerning to hear. With a small budget, hiring a fancy website design agency just isn’t doable.
Many small businesses turn to website design templates. One quick Google search of website design templates will bring up results of mixed opinions on template websites. On the one hand, template websites are easy to manage and edit. On the other hand, templates can look cookie-cutter and not stand out. We’re here to dispel the negative comments! While yes, templates are technically cookie-cutter, the one you choose and the way you dress it up can make it unique. If a template website seems like the best option for you, there are a few things to consider before jumping right into a cool-looking template.
How to choose a website design template that’s right for you
Doing research and asking yourself the following questions will make it easier for you to find the perfect template.
1. What kind of website are you trying to build?
Templates can be specific for online stores or portfolios or restaurants. The design might look cool, but it’s important to keep in mind what you’re going to be doing with your website.
Pro tip: Do some research on your competitors or other websites you like – note how their websites look. You can use the things you like and improve upon the things you don’t. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel!
2. What functionality do you need?
Not all templates are created equal, making sure your template has the features you need is crucial. If your website is going to require a login portal for members or you need to sell items, it’s good to know your template can support those things before committing.
Pro tip: Make a list of everything your website will need so you don’t leave anything out!
3. How much can you customize on the template?
Some templates are very restrictive, which can be both a blessing and a curse. With a very structured template, it can be nice to know everything has a place, and it won’t take too much playing around with to get it looking perfect. Alternatively, if you have a specific vision for where you want things placed and how you want them to look, a structured template can be frustrating.
Pro tip: Read the fine print when choosing a template. The company should say what can be changed and what can’t. If not, contact them!
4. Is there customer support?
Let’s face it – you’re no web design wizard. There may be questions you have or things that aren’t working, so you’ll need some support. Wherever you choose your template, make sure they have customer support.
Pro tip: 24/7 customer support is awesome. Any day, any time, it’s good to know you’ll have support if you need it.
5. Will there be added costs?
Don’t get nickel and dimed by website template providers. Some functionality and features could be an extra charge. For this one, it comes down to research. Read carefully what is included with your template.
Pro tip: Well-known website template providers usually offer hundreds or thousands of free plugins or apps to add advanced functionality to your website.
Popular website design template providers
When choosing a website template, there are a lot of things to consider. Thorough research of your business and template options will guarantee that you find the best website design template for your specific needs. Have any questions or need help finding a template that will work for your business? Visit bytesizedigital.com, give us a call, or shoot us an email!
