Q&A: Should I use a website template?

Notes from Chris

Episode 1668

Welcome to a new week!

I always enjoy hearing what you’re up to. If we’re not connected online, follow me on Twitter (@chrisguillebeau) or connect on LinkedIn. I have several LinkedIn Learning courses that are totally free if you have a Premium account there, and I should be releasing some new ones soon.

Today’s listener is wondering about using a website template to build his new ecommerce site. It looks cheap, quick, and easy—is there any downside?

"Hey Chris, this is Kevin and I’ve registered a domain and want to build a website without coding. It looks like there are a bunch of templates and plug-ins out there that make this easy, either for free or sometimes a low cost of $100 or less. Is there anything wrong with using one of these tools? I worry that it might look unprofessional—but I also don't have a lot of money to spend on design, and I don't think I'll turn into a programmer overnight. What do you think I should do? Thanks."

Listen to today's episode to learn more...

 

 

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SEE ALSO:

• Q&A: Should I pay someone to build my website?: Today’s caller is wondering about how other people make their websites—are they doing it on their own, or do they pay someone? (And how do you decide which approach is best for you?)
• Q&A: Will my web host design my website?: A listener wants to know if their web host offers a “full service” option, or if it’s better to find another way to get the job done.
• Q&A: Is it okay to use Squarespace for my new website?: This listener is getting ready to start his project, but is wondering about which website platform to choose. He’d like to use Squarespace—is that a good idea?

Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!

Yours in the revolution,