If we were to do a comparison - template vs bespoke websites – there would be no clear winner. Each serves an incredibly useful purpose and either could be right for your business, depending on its type and business growth levels, among other factors. That’s why we provide both template and bespoke website services.
We’ve noticed an interesting pattern over the years. Clients will often choose a template website as they get started – perhaps spreading their budget carefully across various aspects of the business. And as their sales and marketing efforts come to fruition and their business grows, they typically enquire about upgrading to a bespoke website, wanting even more from it.
Every client’s journey is different. You may have had a bespoke website from the get-go. Or, you may feel your template website is already exceeding your expectations.
This blog is for you if you currently have a template-based website and are considering investing in a bespoke, custom-built one. If your business goals are growing because your business is, it’s likely you’ll need a website upgrade so it can function in the way you need it to.
The template website
At WEBPRO, a template website is really a semi-bespoke website which has been carefully designed with user experience and Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) best practices at its core. With different styles and levels of functionality to choose from, your content – logo, written, photos and so on – is inserted. The result is a website that reflects your brand and promotes your offerings superbly. Template websites are:
- affordable
- quick to set up
- easy to use
The growing pains of a template website
It’s probably easier than you think to recognise when your template website has done all it can for you and it’s time to go bespoke.
Business will be booming, and you’ll almost certainly want to make further customisations to your website to align with your more demanding goals. Template websites are more limited when it comes to customising, so if you’re looking for enhanced functionality or to change the look of your website significantly, it could be a sign your template website is holding your business back.
Scalability is vital for your business to grow. You’ll need more advanced SEO and a design unlike any other that sets you apart in a competitive market. This is where bespoke website design comes in.
Transitioning to a bespoke website
A custom website is truly unique. WEBPRO’s bespoke websites are tailored to a business’ every need. You can expect this tailored approach to everything, from the design to functionality and user experience. And you can benefit from the flexibility a bespoke website offers for integration with tools and platforms.
Bespoke services for a bespoke website. The WEBPRO team offer an individual approach to website design and development for growing businesses.
Advantages of a bespoke website
Advantages of custom websites include:
- unique brand representation through custom design
- enhanced functionality tailored to specific business needs
- scalability to grow with the business
- better technical performance
- improved SEO
- competitive advantage in the marketplace
The benefits are endless because you have the freedom to make limitless choices and see your ideas come to life.
Addressing concerns about bespoke websites
Naturally, there are some points you’ll want to keep in mind. It will take longer to develop your website. And it will undoubtedly cost more. How much more will depend on what you’re looking for. If you’re at the point where your business has outgrown your template website, the question really has to be: ‘Can you afford not to go bespoke?’. When you consider the inevitable ROI along with the strategic technical benefits that will aid your business’ continued growth, the answer surely has to be: ‘No’.
When planning a bespoke website project, start by defining the scope of the project, including features, functionalities and deliverables and research and estimate costs. Allocate the budget to phases of the project. And ensure you have a contingency fund. Track, review and make adjustments accordingly.
Remember to budget for ongoing costs, such as hosting and maintenance, SSL certificate and marketing.
Template to bespoke – A valued client’s story
Oliver Peace of James Leighton Financial Services had been a client of ours for several years. Initially, one of our Gold-level template websites had served him well. After four or five years, it became evident that in order to keep up with the competition, he needed a new website.
Plans for a new website “originated from the growth strategy for the business” says Oliver. His “mission is, was and still is to grow the business ten times” by 2029. Although Oliver says they had never had a lead problem and never really needed to get clients through the website, “part of the growth strategy was to widen the range of lead sources, and the website… was part of that strategy”.
Today, the rebrand and new website has seen James Leighton receive “lots of nice feedback” and at the time of writing: “The number of people that we’ve recorded as a web enquiry as a lead origin, that’s definitely increased”.
Oliver believes that James Leighton is now seen as a “much more credible brand” and clients see them as a “real business” because they have the complete marketing package, including a bespoke website, regular blogs and guides, SEO, Google Ads and social media.
For the future, Oliver has his mind set on the next phase of the business. “I feel like we’re just at the beginning, we’re not at the end of something”, he confirms.
The whole story can be found here.
Next steps
So, if you think the time is right to transition from a template website to a bespoke one, first choose the right development partner. The importance of partnering with an experienced website design and development team cannot be overstated. You’re likely to be working together for a long time, so approachability and dependability are vital.
You can then get started on defining the scope of the project – with their help if necessary.
Recap: If you’re reading this article, the chances are you’ve already seen the signs you need a bespoke website. If your business is ready for one, it’s an investment in your business’ future growth and success.
We love all things website-related here at WEBPRO and are always ready to get creative with a new, bespoke website. We’d love to hear from you, whether it’s to hear your ideas or discuss options.
WEPRO knows
83.5% of small business owners with a website believe that this plays a significant part in the business.
