Do professionals use templates?

[mstitt1]

I am new to this forum and pretty new to web design.
I've built a site using a public template. I like the template but was wondering if it is considered unprofessional.
Is it taboo to use them.
What would be acceptable if it is?

 

[tony84]

the person that did my mums website used a template, ive seen his code and its really bad, although he can do more than i do, he does it badly which isnt too important as it does the job it needs to do and if i wasnt around my mum would never know

 

[NameCollect]

Re

There is nothing wrong with using a template when you are just starting out, provided it looks professional. The most important part is functionality as well, with a good navigation system in place.

Once you are a bit more experienced, you should either hire a designer or try to build your own, ensuring that your website is unique and reflects your business to the fullest extent possible.

I have never used a template myself but I learned HTML first, long before I decided to get into ecommerce.. I have, however, seen a few websites that use templates that look pretty decent, and in many cases a visitor wouldn't know it was a template at all.. only us real geeks can pick them out easily... heh

Good luck..

 

[armstrong]

templates are my best friend, as they save me many hours of work. I either:

- buy expensive ones (like from Templatemonster) so odds are microscopic that I'd ever see another site just like mine, or
- edit the heck out of a public template, usually incorporating pictures from a royalty-free site

 

[will7]

Templates are not consider unprofessional, but I do not like using them. I promise clients a completely original and unique feel to their site.

Also, if you use templates, it can't be good for the customer when they visit someone elses site and find they have the exact same design (but with a few things changed) as their own site.

Unless a client specifically asks me too, then I never use templates in my designs.

Just my opinions.

 

[Nunim]

A lot of high quality templates you don't see dupilcated very often, I used a very professional one and I have yet to find a site like it.

 

[mstitt1]

Thank you for the replies

They are all very helpfull. I don't feel so guilty now for using it on my site
Many of those links may come in handy also.
www.focos.biz
Another question
How do you structure a web site for a small mid-Michigan town. I've seen many sites and they vary greatly. Is there one way that really sticks out?