It’s time to talk about template websites!?
One of the staple blog posts you will find on every web agencies website is about how bad template websites are. In reality, they’re just building a case to help “sell” people into their service. Web agencies do provide great services, and are a great one-stop-shop if that’s what you’re look for, but template websites do offer great value for emerging entrepreneurs.
While they don’t have the same level of customisation that a WordPress website has, they are a great option for people who don’t want to invest thousands of dollars to get their website up and running. You simply select a template from platforms such as Squarespace, Wix or Duda, and then edit the content and images on that pre-built website. But that’s just the mechanics of template websites. The rest of this blog explores exactly why template websites are a great first option for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Easy to use
Template websites have been built to be user friendly for non-technical people. They’re intuitive, have guides and walkthroughs to help you when you first sign up, and some platforms will even half build the website for you based on a questionnaire.
While there is some difference between the platforms, the basic functionality is similar. Generally, you click to edit text after logging in, and a text box similar to Microsoft word will appear where you then add the text you want for your business. The same goes for images, and any extra features you want to add as well like contact forms and videos.
We recommend using Squarespace, Wix or Duda. They are incredibly easy to use and genuinely have beautiful website templates. Go and check them out!
One monthly fee
The bonus of template websites, is that you don’t have to find and manage any of the hosting. The platform will offer you different levels for a monthly fee based on the features and customisation that you want to have over the website.
Once you’ve chosen your monthly fee, that is all you need to do for the website, aside from your domain name. It’s that simple. As choosing aa hosting company, and then managing that does require a certain level of technical speciality. And if you don’t have those skills, you may need to consider a hosting company that provides support, which you cannot get on most of the cheap hosting plans.
Another added bonus is that some of the platforms also include basic analytics and marketing functions on their platform, all included in the monthly fee. And once you get used to the usability of the platform, these are quite easy to use and interpret too.
Look professional
It can cost thousands of dollars to build a custom designed website, and even then you may not end up with a professional website if it’s not built correctly. A template website allows you to have access to professional looking and functional websites, initially for free as you build the site.
And as an emerging entrepreneur, this is an amazing advantage to have. Even if you are building a custom designed WordPress website, building a template design to get your business up online sooner to a high standard is a great option.
There are thousands of websites to choose from on the platforms. Simply find one that suits the purpose of your business, and you can be online in an a matter of hours depending on how big the website needs to be!
Advanced functionality
Gone are the days when template websites are simply a home page, contact us page and a few service pages. Now, you can build an entire ecommerce site on these platforms, with quite advanced functionalities included.
Template websites often have access to interesting movements, functionalities and add-ons that would usually require a developer to integrate with a WordPress website. Most platforms are also already connected to common applications, such as GSuite, MailChimp and Paypal, which means all you need to do is enter your details to have a website that communicates with these applications immediately.
They also have user friendly guides to help you set up technical sids to your website, like setting up your Domain. Simply follow the prompts in the platform, and you can connect it yourself without the need of a developer.
Added functionalities give your website that extra professional touch, giving you credibility and providing a good user experience for your customers too.
Template websites may not be right for everyone, especially if you’re looking for a bit more control or customisation, but they are a great option for those taking their first step. So if you’re wanting to get your business up online, consider a template website, even if it’s just for the short term while you invest in a long term solution. Because getting online and started is what it’s all about.
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