Template or Bespoke?

The age old dilemma for designers is templates V Bespoke - here we analyze templates vs bespoke and ask is there a place for both?

Pros of Templated websites

1.     Controlled scope of project

You have a defined scope to work with in either its fixed pages, fixed sections of content that need filling or its simply passed on to the client to fill with content after you have do your work.

2.     Control on time

Due to the fact you have a structure you are already working to means that building the website will be fast and go live quickly.

3.     Content reliant

The content you need is very focused and this means the client can get this information over to you up front or very early on in the process.

Cons of Template

1. Client will try to break your structure

The client will ask for things outside the scope of the structure and you need to be strong to hold to your product, and either charge or reject depending again on your product.

2.     Lack of creativity

The creativity of the website build ahs been done before you even meet the client so it is key to know you will just be doing administration job and not actually designing.

Pros of Bespoke

1.     Higher fee charging capability

Like with any bespoke job you have the capability of being able to charge higher fees.

2.     More additional bolt on products

You will be able to add more bespoke products such as content, video, graphics to the cost of he website and sell more product.

3.     Really creative

As it is bespoke you will have full creative control over the project.

Cons of Bespoke

1.     Time

With all types of bespoke jobs the time element of building a bespoke website can run over on the dedicated time and make you less profitable.

2.     There harder to find

Bespoke websites sales are truly a relationship sale and you need to have a process that allows that to flourish and provide the right consultative element to the website build. The client will want input and have a heavy say in the consultation process.

Bonus Idea – Build a journey for the customer!

There is nothing wrong with having both, as long as the journey exists and the product is defined correctly so the client can then decide on the type of relationship they want with you as a supplier.  If they want to work with you but can’t afford a bespoke project with consultation time, brand building time and scoping meetings, then accessing your product through a structured website plus a consultation may allow them to stretch their budget and work with you. This is completely dictated to you by your brand and what you allow within the parameters of the structured website.