With so many website development options to choose from, the question quickly becomes, which is better: template-based or customized websites. As a business owner, efficiency and cost are always two motivating factors for any business decision. And, so too is true when deciding what to do with your business website. Though using a “stock”, templated-based website model can be more cost effective, what it has in affordability, it lacks in customer experience and proper search engine optimization (SEO). Your website is your customers’ first impression of your business, so why not create a website that improves your ability to get found on the web and leaves an unforgettable impression?
Here are the top reasons why a custom website can be just what you need to create an unshakable competitive advantage and stand out from the crowd.
- Enhanced user experience. Templates look great until you start working with them and find out the limitations well after you’ve invested time and money. This can be frustrating when the template won’t adjust to your needs. Many of the features that fight for attention, are unwanted and distract from the message you are trying to convey to your audience. When you have a custom built website, you can build a unique website experience more user-friendly and memorable to your target market. When customers have a positive experience with your website, they are more likely to take action, return to your site and recommend it to others. You want your web visitors to seamlessly navigate your website. Custom websites provide more control of this user experience. You can add in specific features you know will appeal to your target audience and leave out unwanted distractions.
- Better Functionality. How often have you purchased a templated web solution and had it fit all of your needs? Not often, most likely. They can provide you with a barebones website, with limited customizability. Many of these sites are known for having poor security and are poorly coded, ultimately hurting your search ranking compared to well design and developed websites from your competition. Though this may allow you to get a website up quickly, you will have to sacrifice some functionality which could alter your user experience. By working with a designer to create a customized site ensures a positive user experience on the front end and current web standards and security on the back end. Plus, a custom CMS allows you to focus on managing the content of the site with ease.
- Flexibility over time. As your business evolves, you want to be able to change your website without having to recreate the wheel. Template-based websites limit how much you can change and though it may serve your needs now, they can quickly become obsolete as your needs and technology changes. A customized website is built to your specifications and can be done in such a way to plan for future expansion. So, as your business grows, you have the flexibility to enhance design elements, maintain current web standards and security, and adapt to improve the user experience. When you partner with an experienced brand and web developer, they will be able to create your vision for your website and add additional capabilities for you to tap into later, when you are ready.
If you’re considering a website upgrade or looking to get your business’ first website up and running, connect with the award-winning web design team at Snowball Creative Group. We will be happy to discuss your website needs and create a customized plan to design the website you need to stand out from the crowd. Click here for a free consultation.
