Difference between a template, CMS and a real website
It is very often when I hear clients asking and wondering over the difference between a template and a real website. Most of the time, they are amused over the thought that if a template is free to use then why pay to get a real website?
There are templates that you can find on templatemonster.com or those that come free with shared hosting plans like CMS or Godaddy like WordPress, Drupal or Joomla. So here is the difference:
Templates
They are usually built using simple HTML/CSS and allows you to edit the about us page, logo, the background or color scheme.
Website Builders
Website building programs often come free with shared hosting services like hostgator or Godaddy. With such programs you can add on widgets, and other features on HTML/CSS page. They are easy to use and edit but often can be limiting.
Content Management Systems
Then there are content management systems, a robust platform that will let you edit, change or modify anything you want on the website. Website might not be a right word for a CMS platform but it can be used to manage your website, organization or business. It has full eCommerce capabilities, you can sell your products as well as manage tax reports, invoicing and sales sheets as well. So if you have to manage your client’s records, files and other essential data then CMS is your solution to complete Client relationship management.
Here are few others features that you can enjoy with CMS:
- Client Relationship Management
- eNewsletter
- Invoicing/billing
- Accounting
- Project Management
- Online and Recurring Payments (Paypal)
- Support Desk
- Web Conferencing
Website developer/Designer
If CMS or template is not something that you would require for your business or if you have a small business that demands for a website that is simple and information based then going to a website designer that can fulfill your needs would be a wiser thing. A website designer can give you exactly what you want within your budget. When you buy just a template, CMS system, you also get few features that you might not want to use in your website. This can cost you more for nothing. Using a developer to meet your designing needs can not only make a lasting impression on clients and your audience but will also cost you less. He can even incorporate CMS on your website to modify your website as per your liking. Of course he would be creating a template and logo for your website that would be unique and specific to the site
The above mentioned differences can help you choose the right, budget friendly program and platform for your website.