Mistakes To Avoid When Using Web Templates

When designing a new site, it can be a great time saver to purchase an off the shelf website template. This can save you a lot of time and effort, and if your graphic design skills are not great, then this can be a cheap way of getting a good looking site. However, there are some things you need to beware of when buying a template.

The biggest mistake you could make is purchasing a template that is already in widespread use. This is more likely, if you choose a free web template from a popular template company. You really want to avoid having a generic look, as it will affect your overally image.

The whole point of using a template, is that you will only need to change the title, and fill in the text areas, and you will be done. There is not point using a template, if you are going to spend another week customising it. You might be better off starting from scratch, and then at least your layout will be exactly how you want it.

On the other hand, if you have found a template that will require a couple of minor image changes, or colour enhancements, then it may well be worth the effort. Once you get into the territory of replacing backgorund images, and changing nav button styles, then you really should start from scratch.

Be careful of the pricing on template catalogue sites. Some of them state that you can purchase the template for exclusive use for a couple of thousand dollars. But, how do you know you are the first to buy it? And what if the template company has just tweaked the template a little after the last one was sold, to make it unique? Get everything in writing.
Make sure the template you purchase has the kind of functionality that you need. If it has large side menus, make sure that is something you actually need, or you will end up struggling for content to put in them. Chooses functionality over good looks, and your life will be a lot easier.