Web Design - 4 Reasons Not to Buy Off the Shelf

With a multitude of standard templates and packages available for creating a website, what's wrong with buying off the shelf? There is no one correct answer to this question, as every company has different requirements, goals, and limitations. In some instances, web templates may be the ideal solution for an organization, but there are some definite advantages to custom web design and development.

1. Stand out from the crowd. When you choose to create your website from a template, it is likely that other websites will use the same template, maybe even companies within your industry. Custom design will ensure that you stand out from your competitors.
2. Add features and applications. Many web vendors will offer templates or pre-set packages with a select number of features. If your web needs are relatively simple, this may be a perfect option for you, but many organizations require features beyond the scope of these pre-set packages. In these instances, it is best to seek a web development company who can create custom applications that address your unique business challenges.
3. Integrate with other systems. Organizations may require that their website tie in to other enterprise systems. For instance, maybe your ecommerce website should integrate with your current inventory management system or you customer relationship management (CRM) system should tie into online contact forms. In these instances, custom web development can facilitate the interaction and operation of these systems.
4. Easily edit content. When designing a website from scratch, you can select and implement a content management system (CMS) to fit your organization's requirements. These systems allow users to easily publish, manage, and organize website information. With a CMS, you can add, delete, and refine content at any time without the use of an outside web provider.

Before selecting a web solution, every company should evaluate their unique business conditions. Standard web templates and packages generally offer a low-cost solution, but they may not meet the specific needs of your organization or your audience.
written by Samantha Botello