Custom Site Versus Template Based Websites

The debate between open source platforms and template platforms rages on as many small businesses struggle to find a cost effective way of getting their websites online. Many people believe that template based platforms provide a simple plug and play solution that requires less technical knowledge and design experience, but this is not always the case. On the other hand, open source platforms offer a greater level of customization but often take a greater degree of skill to piece together.

Out of the Box

The appeal of template platforms is the idea that the hard work is done, and all you need to do is put in your own text and images. Most templates provide a limited framework for customization of colors and backgrounds to match your theme. The problem is that not all templates are created equally, and the depth of customization allowed it generally governed by the original designer. You may be able to purchase "premium" access to the template for more options and personalization, or you may not. In addition, since templates are designed by people of varying experience levels. As such, menu options and ease of application will not always be the same from one template to the next. If you ever need to make changes or update your site, you could be faced with a complex rebuild from the ground up. Plus, templates often fall out of compatibility as time goes on because they rely on embedded elements that are updated externally.

Personalized Open Source Products

By contrast, open source platforms are created specifically to meet the needs of your business on an individual level. With the help of an experienced designer you can gain access to all of the minor details of your site and make any changes you want at a core level. In addition, you can take advantage of the most current plugins and tools available for web design. The ability to change any and all aspects of your site, and roll out new innovative ideas over time makes open source templates a great choice for jewelers and other small business owners who showcase a wide range of changing products from one season to the next.

Choosing to move forward with an open source platform is one way to ensure your website captures your customer's attention and highlights the very best that you have to offer while standing out from the crowd.

To learn how GemFind can tailor-make your website, click here.