Showit Website Templates vs. Custom Design: Which One is Right for You?

Whether you’re in the process of getting a brand new website or doing a website redesign, you’re probably asking yourself this question – 

“Should I use a Showit website template or get a custom design? Which one is right for me?”

Well, it depends on your business and what’s best for you.

For some, getting a Showit website template might make more sense for where they’re at in their business. For others, it would make more sense to get a custom Showit design.

In this blog post, I’ll break down both options and all the things you’ll want to consider so you can make the best choice for your business.

Showit Website Templates

What are website templates?

Website templates are pre-designed layouts you can customize with your own branding elements like your logo, colors, and content. They’re designed to be both functional and beautiful, giving you a foundation for creating a professional online presence.

Why Go for a Showit Website Template?

• Easy on your budget: Perfect for small businesses that need to keep an eye on their spending.
• Quick to launch: You’ll be surprised at how fast you can get your site live and ready for visitors.
• No tech skills required: It’s all about clicking, dragging, and dropping to get things just right—no coding know-how necessary.
• A variety of designs: With so many options, you’re sure to find one that fits what you’re all about.

Speaking of which, make sure to stop by my Showit template shop!

Points to consider

• Learning Curve: If you’re not familiar with Showit or website platforms in general, you might need to put some time aside to learn a few things.
• Time Commitment: It can be time-consuming to customize everything yourself.
• Originality: While customizable, templates do start as a common base. So if you don’t make too many changes to the layout, it can end up looking like other websites.

Exploring Custom Design on Showit

What’s Involved in Custom Design?

Choosing a custom design means your website is built from the ground up just for you. You’ll work closely with designers who tailor everything to fit your specific needs, adding unique touches that truly fully embody your brand.

Advantages of Custom Design

• Exclusive Design: Your website will stand out, avoiding the “seen that before” feeling.
• Higher ROI: Many of my clients recoup their design investment within months of launching.
• Time-saving: Leave the design, platform choice, and launch logistics to the experts.
• SEO Boost: A well-optimized site can improve your search engine rankings.
• Professional Guidance: Benefit from the expertise of seasoned designers. (If you start looking for web designers, make sure to ask them these 7 questions.)

Points to consider:

• Investment: Typically starts at $3000+.
• Time: Custom designs often have a longer turnaround.
• Control: You’ll need to trust your designer’s expertise and let them take over!

The Comparison Comparing Showit Website Templates vs. Custom Design

Cost Comparison

Initial costs vs. long-term investment: While templates are cheaper initially, investing in a custom design might provide more value in the long run, especially if your business model relies heavily on online engagement.

Time and Effort

Time to launch and required effort: Templates can be the quickest way to get online, but custom designs offer a tailored experience if you have the time and budget.

Level of Customization

Customization limits: Templates provide a foundation with limited tweaks, whereas custom designs are built from the ground up with your specific needs in mind.

Deciding What’s Right for You

Reflect on Your Business Stage

For those of you with businesses that are just taking their first steps (a year old or less), a Showit template might be the way to go. They’re budget-friendly and a breeze to set up (mine come with step-by-step instructions so you’re not left wondering what to do next), which means you can get your website sorted out without a hefty price tag.

By the way, if you don’t have a Showit account yet, you can use my link to get a free month on top of your free trial.

For more established businesses with a clear direction and more resources, custom website design can significantly enhance your brand and distinguish you in your industry.

Determining Your Website’s Goal

Understanding the purpose of your website is crucial. Consider what role it plays in your business. Are you aiming to showcase your services, or are you looking to sell products directly through your site?

Future Scalability

Think about how your choice will scale with your business. A template might meet your needs now, but consider whether it will suffice as your requirements grow.

Technical Skills and Resources

Evaluate what you currently have available. Are you comfortable customizing a Showit template on your own, or do you have the budget to hire a professional for a custom design?

Showit website template or custom design: which one better suits your business?

As you can see, choosing between a Showit website template and a custom design depends on what best meets your business needs. Both options have their benefits and challenges. At the end of the day, it’s making the choice that best aligns with your needs and wants.

Either way, I’m here to support you!

I have over 15 Showit website templates for you to choose from. They’re all professionally designed, at a fraction of what a custom design would cost, and come with step-by-step instructions.

Or if a custom design is more fitting for you, I’d love to help you build a website that you’re not only proud of but sells for you 24/7.

And if you’re still not sure, I have a fun quiz for you to help you decide!

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. If you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. Keep in mind that I only share about companies that I truly believe in and use myself! For my details on affiliate links, please visit my terms of use.