Web design plays a critical role in shaping a business's digital identity. However, many businesses opt to use ready-made website templates (which we will refer to as templates) to save time and costs. The use of templates is a debated topic with both advantages and disadvantages. In this article, I will evaluate why ready-made templates are preferred and in which situations this choice may or may not be appropriate.
Ready-made templates offer a cost-effective solution. Especially for small startups and individual projects, customizing an existing template instead of designing a website from scratch is a budget-friendly option. Additionally, templates generally come with user-friendly interfaces, minimizing the need for technical knowledge. This is an attractive advantage for people with time constraints or those who do not have access to a professional designer. Moreover, platforms that offer a wide range of templates make it relatively easy to find a design suitable for your needs and industry. These templates are typically checked for HTML standards and are often well-coded designs that we refer to as valid HTML.
However, the disadvantages of ready-made templates should not be overlooked. One of the biggest criticisms is that these templates lack originality. Since many websites may use the same template, it can be challenging to reflect a unique brand identity. Furthermore, templates are generally limited in terms of flexibility, and when you want to add a custom function or design element, you might encounter technical issues. In terms of performance, some templates contain unnecessary code, which can make the website run slowly. This can negatively affect the user experience and decrease SEO performance.
When should you use a ready-made template? This choice is usually dependent on the project's goals and budget. If you're creating a prototype, looking for a quick solution, or if your project is a low-budget venture, ready-made templates might be a reasonable option. If the company you've partnered with for web design suggests a ready-made template, it is typically to keep costs low.
However, if your brand needs a unique digital identity or requires special functionality, creating a custom-designed website would be more suitable.
In conclusion, ready-made templates offer both opportunities and limitations. The key is to analyze your project's needs accurately and take advantage of the benefits of templates while minimizing their disadvantages. Success in web design is achieved not only through aesthetic appearance but also by effectively reflecting your brand's vision and values.
Personally, I do not believe that ready-made designs should “absolutely never be used.” In my opinion, websites are driven by their content, not their designs. But if originality is important to you, it’s better to avoid using templates.
