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Layout Template Is A MustA graphic template is the main layout of the website. This is the very first step I do when I create a new site. The main advantage of using a graphic template is, you can position where all the elements of the web page go. For example your menu bars, the main site content, banner locations, etc.

I use Photoshop to design my graphic layout templates, but you can choose any image editing program you like. Make sure to save the template in PSD format if that is the case with Photoshop so you have an always ready to edit file. You can always move all your elements in the template file since each one uses it’s own layer, ie: layer for your logo, banners, etc.

You can always buy pre-designed graphic layouts on the web or like I do create your own from scratch.

Pre-designed graphic layouts

For people with no time on their hands, it is best to purchase one online and make some minor edits to the layout then apply it to the actual coding process. This is way faster and cost fraction of a custom job.

When you purchase a graphic template, you will be able to customize it to an extent or even build a totally new design based on it. You may ask, then what’s the point of using the template? Well, it serves as a source of inspiration and ideas for a totally new design, if you have no clue where to start.

On top of that, you are actually saving a lot of precious time that you can otherwise spend on more important things like developing new products or market your products.

If you are going with a pre-made template, We Highly recommend DreamTemplate. They offer a comprehensive, exclusive website templates collection consisting of Photoshop designs with HTML exported versions with access to over 3000+ Premium Quality Templates, Professional Fonts, Cliparts, Abstract Images, Office Documents and more.

Custom graphic layouts from scratch

But if you run a decent business and you care about your corporate image, pre-designed templates are not the way to go.

The biggest problem being your design will look exactly the same as others who use the same layout with little to no modifications. This looks really bad for your company.

You need a unique graphic layout to differentiate your vision from others. This is why most Internet marketers shy away from using predefined graphic templates whether it’s ebook covers, website layouts or promotional banners because they firmly believe that by them, they are tarnishing their own business.

Custom layout vs pre-made

If you can’t create a design by scratch, you can always buy Templates Online for a fraction of the cost. Don’t forget, hiring a professional to do a custom design for you will cost you a lot of money in some cases.

Unless you need a totally unique identity that you are aiming to establish firmly in your market, you can stick with a pre-made layout for the time being.

Always be careful when it comes to choosing the design you like. Consider quality over the price. Remember! you’re on your way to creating a positive image for your business or online project while saving more time for other productive chores.

So the decision is up to you to go on which route. Would you rather settle for a design that everyone uses or try building your own identity online.

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2 Responses to “Layout Template Is A Must”

  1. website templates Says:
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  2. Scott Says:
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    Like you, I always design my mockups from scratch. Gives me total control over the content. Nice post.

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