Let’s start with the term custom design. When it comes to web design, this refers to a website made from scratch that meets agreed-upon goals and specifications, both in terms of aesthetics and user experience. It is an entirely customized project involving research and analysis of the target audience and product or service being promoted.
For instance, small business design ideas will be starkly different than a solution intended for a multinational corporation. In short, when opting for custom professional website design, a website is tailor-made to suit all the requirements agreed on by the client and team of designers in charge of the project.
Then there are templates, or themes, commonly used in WordPress design. These are pre-made, customizable designs, created with a general, broader user base in mind. These templates are designed for hypothetical, future users, and offer a base that can be altered and built upon, allowing for a certain amount of personalization.
There are pros and cons to both approaches. In terms of budget, templates are generally the more inexpensive option, with some even available for free. Custom design takes more time and work, which increases its cost.
These are the kinds of services most renowned website building companies focus on. As mentioned, if time is of the essence, a pre-made template is certainly the quicker choice. Still, it’s important to bear in mind that due to limited customization options, the final product may be lacking in areas such as SEO and responsive design.