20 tips to consider when selecting WordPress website templates
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Choosing the right WordPress template is important for creating a successful website. Here are 20 tips to help you make an informed decision.
1. Purpose alignment
When picking a WordPress template, it’s important to keep in mind the purpose of your website. A blog has different requirements compared to an online store or a portfolio site. For instance, a blog template might focus on readability and typography, while an online store template needs to prioritise product displays and checkout processes.
Considering the end goal of your website helps narrow down your template choices. If you’re building a corporate site, you might want something that looks professional and offers various layout options for showcasing services and team members. On the other hand, a portfolio site should highlight visuals, making image and gallery presentation features important.
It’s also helpful to think about the kind of user experience you want to create. A WordPress website templates that fits your website’s purpose makes sure visitors can easily navigate and find what they need, improving overall satisfaction and effectiveness.
2. Responsive design
Make sure the template is mobile-friendly. People use their phones more than ever to browse the internet, and your site needs to look good on all screen sizes. A responsive design automatically adjusts the layout depending on the device, ensuring a smooth experience for users on smartphones, tablets, and desktops.
When a template is responsive, it improves not only user experience but also search engine rankings. Google and other search engines favour websites that are mobile-friendly, which can lead to better visibility and more traffic. A template that looks great on all devices helps maintain consistency and professionalism.
Test the template on multiple devices to see how it performs. Check for any elements that might not display correctly or features that don’t work as intended. Making your site accessible and functional on all platforms is essential in today’s digital age.
3. Customisation options
Flexibility in design is a big plus, so look for WordPress website templates that let you customise things without needing to know how to code. This allows you to tailor the website to your brand’s unique style and needs. Good customisation options mean you can change colours, fonts, layouts, and more with ease.
Templates that offer a variety of customisation settings save you time and money. You won’t need to hire a developer for every little change, and you can keep your site updated and fresh as your business evolves. Look for templates with built-in theme customizers or those compatible with visual page builders.
However, be mindful of over-customising. Sometimes too many options can lead to a cluttered and confusing design. Aim for a balance that maintains a clean, professional look while allowing for enough flexibility to make your site unique.
4. Page builder compatibility
It’s a good idea to choose WordPress website templates that work well with popular page builders like MaxiBlocks, WPBakery, or Gutenberg. These tools make it easier to create and adjust your site’s layout. Page builders allow you to drag and drop elements, making design more accessible to non-developers.
Compatibility with page builders means you can easily create complex layouts without writing a single line of code. This is especially useful for creating unique pages that stand out and provide a better user experience. A template that integrates well with these builders offers greater flexibility and creative freedom.
Before committing to a template, check if it supports your preferred page builder. Look for reviews or demos that showcase how the template works with these tools. This ensures you won’t run into unexpected issues during the design process.
5. SEO-friendly WordPress website templates
Search engine optimisation is another factor to consider. A template that’s built with SEO in mind can help your site appear higher in search engine results, making it easier for people to find you. Look for templates with clean code, fast loading times, and proper use of header tags.
SEO-friendly WordPress website templates often includes features like meta tag management, breadcrumbs, and optimised images. These elements help search engines understand your content better, improving your chances of ranking well. Higher rankings can lead to more organic traffic and potential customers.
Additionally, consider how the template handles mobile optimisation. Search engines like Google consider mobile-friendliness as a ranking factor. A template that performs well on mobile devices can further boost your SEO efforts, leading to better visibility and more traffic.
6. Loading speed
Loading speed is something you shouldn’t overlook. A fast-loading site keeps visitors happy and can also help with your search engine ranking. Slow websites can frustrate users, leading to higher bounce rates and lost opportunities.
When evaluating templates, pay attention to their performance. Some templates might look beautiful but are bogged down by heavy scripts and large images. Opt for templates that are optimised for speed, as these will provide a better user experience and help maintain engagement.
You can use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to test the loading speed of a template’s demo site. This will give you a good idea of how well the template performs and what kind of optimisations might be needed to get the best results.
7. Regular updates
Regular updates are a sign of a good template. It shows that the developers are keeping it compatible with the latest WordPress versions and plugins, and fixing any bugs that come up. A template that isn’t updated regularly can become a security risk and might not work properly with new features.
An updated template means you have access to the latest features and improvements. This can include new design options, better compatibility with third-party plugins, and enhanced performance. Regular updates also indicate that the developers are active and responsive to user feedback.
Before choosing a template, check the update history. Look for templates that have been updated recently and consistently. This gives you peace of mind that the template will remain functional and secure over time.
8. Browser compatibility
Check that the template works well across all major browsers. This ensures that your site looks good for everyone, no matter what browser they use. Different browsers can render websites differently, so it’s important to test your template on browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.
Cross-browser compatibility is crucial for providing a consistent user experience. A template that displays correctly on all browsers helps build trust with your visitors. It also ensures that you don’t miss out on potential users who prefer a specific browser.
To test for browser compatibility, use online tools or manually check the template’s demo site on different browsers. Look out for any inconsistencies or issues that might affect usability. Making sure your site works on all browsers can save you from future headaches and lost visitors.
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9. Support and documentation
Good support and documentation can save you a lot of headaches. If you run into any issues, having access to reliable customer support and comprehensive documentation is invaluable. Templates with well-documented guides make it easier to set up and customise your site.
Look for templates that offer multiple support channels, such as forums, email, or live chat. Quick and helpful responses from the support team can help you resolve issues faster and keep your site running smoothly. Good support is especially important if you’re not very experienced with WordPress.
Check user reviews to see what others say about the support quality. Templates with active communities and responsive developers are often a better choice. Comprehensive documentation and good support can make your website-building process much smoother and less stressful.
10. User reviews and ratings
It’s always wise to read user reviews and ratings to see what others have experienced with the template. Reviews can provide insights into the template’s performance, ease of use, and the quality of support from the developers. High ratings and positive feedback are good indicators of a reliable template.
User reviews can also highlight potential issues you might not have considered. Look for patterns in the feedback, such as common problems or highly praised features. This can help you make a more informed decision and avoid templates with recurring issues.
Don’t just rely on the reviews on the template’s website. Check independent review sites and forums for more balanced opinions. Gathering a variety of perspectives can give you a clearer picture of the template’s strengths and weaknesses.
11. Security features
Security is important for any website. Make sure the template you choose has good security features to protect your site from hackers and other online threats. A secure template can prevent common vulnerabilities and keep your data safe.
Look for templates that follow best practices in coding and offer built-in security measures. Features like regular updates, clean code, and compatibility with security plugins are important. A well-secured template can reduce the risk of your site being compromised.
Check if the template is compatible with popular security plugins like Wordfence or Sucuri. These plugins can add an extra layer of protection to your site. Having strong security features helps maintain trust and protects your site’s integrity.
12. Demo content
Demo content can be a real time-saver when setting up your site. Look for WordPress website templates that offer demo content so you can get your site up and running quickly. Demo content provides a starting point and helps you understand how to structure your site.
Using demo content can help you visualise the final look of your site and make the setup process smoother. You can customise the demo content to match your branding and preferences, saving you time on design and layout decisions. It also allows you to see the full potential of the template.
Make sure the demo content is easy to import and includes all the elements you need. Some templates offer one-click demo imports, which can significantly speed up the setup process. Having demo content as a foundation can make building your website much more straightforward.
13. Plugin compatibility
Compatibility with essential plugins is a must. Ensure the template works well with the plugins you plan to use. Plugins add functionality to your site, so it’s important that your template supports them without issues.
Testing the template with your preferred plugins before fully committing can also be a good idea. This way, you can identify and resolve any potential conflicts early on. Ensuring plugin compatibility helps maintain a functional and feature-rich website.
14. Typography options
Good typography options can make your content easier to read and your site more attractive. Choose a template that offers a variety of fonts and allows you to adjust sizes, weights, and spacing. Typography plays a significant role in the overall look and feel of your site.
Having control over typography lets you create a unique and cohesive design that aligns with your brand. It also enhances readability, making it easier for visitors to engage with your content. Look for templates that support Google Fonts or other font libraries to give you a wide range of choices.
While experimenting with different fonts, keep readability in mind. Fancy fonts might look appealing but can be hard to read in longer texts. A good balance between style and readability ensures your site looks professional and is user-friendly.
15. Colour schemes
Being able to adjust the colour scheme is helpful, especially if you want your site to match your branding. Look for templates that allow you to customise colours easily, either through the WordPress Customiser or a built-in theme options panel.
A well-chosen colour scheme can make your site visually appealing and create a cohesive brand identity. Consistent use of colours across your site helps reinforce your brand and makes your site more memorable. Templates that offer predefined colour schemes or custom colour pickers give you flexibility in design.
While customising colours, consider how they impact readability and user experience. High contrast between text and background is important for accessibility. A template that provides flexible colour options ensures you can create a visually appealing and user-friendly site.
16. Built-in widgets
Built-in widgets, like social media feeds, sliders, and contact forms, can add extra functionality to your site without needing additional plugins. Widgets make it easy to add interactive and dynamic elements to your site, enhancing user engagement.
Templates with a variety of built-in widgets save you time and effort. You can quickly add features like recent posts, testimonials, and image galleries without installing multiple plugins. This can also reduce the risk of plugin conflicts and help maintain your site’s performance.
Consider the widgets that come with the template and how they align with your site’s needs. Having the right tools at your disposal can streamline the setup process and provide a better experience for your visitors.
I17. E-commerce ready
If you’re planning to run an online store, make sure the template supports e-commerce plugins like WooCommerce. This makes setting up your shop much simpler. A template designed with e-commerce in mind will have features like product displays, shopping carts, and checkout processes built-in.
An e-commerce-ready template can help you create a professional-looking store with minimal effort. Look for templates that offer customisation options for product pages, categories, and payment gateways. This ensures you can tailor the shopping experience to your brand and customer needs.
Check for additional features like product sliders, quick view options, and integration with payment gateways. These can enhance the shopping experience and make your site more appealing to customers. Choosing a template that supports e-commerce plugins ensures you can build a fully functional and attractive online store.
18. Accessibility
Accessibility is important too. Your site should be usable for everyone, including people with disabilities. Choose a template that follows accessibility standards to ensure all users can navigate and interact with your site.
An accessible template includes features like keyboard navigation, readable fonts, and proper contrast ratios. These elements help make your site more inclusive and user-friendly. Improving accessibility can also help your site’s SEO, as search engines favour accessible websites.
Testing your site for accessibility can highlight areas that need improvement. Tools like WAVE or the accessibility checker in your browser can help identify issues. By choosing an accessible template, you ensure a better experience for all visitors.
19. Developer-friendly
If you or your developer plan to tweak the template’s code, pick one with clean, well-documented code. This makes customisation easier and helps prevent issues down the line. A developer-friendly template allows for more advanced customisations and integrations.
Good documentation is essential for understanding the template’s structure and functions. It can save time and reduce the learning curve for developers. Look for templates that include clear, detailed documentation and examples of common customisations.
Having access to a well-documented codebase means you can make changes more confidently. It also makes it easier to troubleshoot any issues that arise. Choosing a developer-friendly template ensures your site can be customised to meet your exact needs.
20. Price and licensing for WordPress website templates
Finally, consider the cost and licensing terms. Make sure the template fits your budget and that the licensing terms suit your needs. This way, you won’t run into unexpected expenses or limitations.
Some templates offer lifetime updates and support for a one-time fee, while others require yearly subscriptions. Weigh the pros and cons of each pricing model based on your long-term plans for the site. A higher upfront cost might be worth it for extended support and updates.
Check the licensing terms to ensure you can use the template as intended. Some licenses might restrict usage to a single site, while others allow multiple installations. Understanding the cost and licensing means you make a financially sound choice for your website.
What security measures are included with WordPress hosting?
Answer: WordPress hosting providers usually include security features like SSL certificates, daily malware scans, firewall protection, and regular updates to protect your website from threats. For comprehensive security features, visit MaxiBlocks WordPress Website Hosting.
FAQs about WordPress website templates
What are WordPress website templates?
WordPress website templates are pre-designed layouts and styles that you can use to create and customise your WordPress site. They are part of themes and help define the overall look and feel of your website, including its structure, colour scheme, fonts, and more.
Why should I use WordPress website templates for my site?
Using WordPress website templates can save you a lot of time and effort in designing your site. They provide a professional and polished look without the need for extensive design skills. Templates are highly customisable, allowing you to adjust various elements to match your brand’s identity. Additionally, they often come with built-in functionality and features that enhance your site’s usability and aesthetic appeal.
How do I start using WordPress website templates?
To start using WordPress website templates, first choose a domain name and select a hosting provider. Once you have installed WordPress, you can browse through the available themes that include various templates. Select a theme that fits your style and needs, then customise the templates to your liking by adjusting colours, fonts, layouts, and adding your own content and images.
What is the difference between a theme and a template in WordPress?
In WordPress, a theme is a collection of templates and stylesheets that determine the overall design and functionality of your site. A template is a single layout within a theme that can be applied to individual pages or posts. Themes can include multiple templates for different types of content, such as homepage layouts, blog posts, and contact pages.
How do I customise WordPress website templates?
You can customise WordPress website templates through the WordPress Customiser or theme settings. Most themes offer options to change colours, fonts, and layouts without needing to code. For more advanced customisations, you can use a page builder plugin like Elementor or Beaver Builder, which provides a drag-and-drop interface to design your pages.
Are there free WordPress website templates available?
Yes, there are many free WordPress website templates available. The official WordPress theme repository offers a wide selection of free themes that include various templates. These can be a great starting point, especially if you’re on a budget. However, premium templates often offer more features, better support, and higher-quality designs.
How do I choose the right WordPress website templates for my site?
Choosing the right WordPress website templates depends on your specific needs and preferences. Look for templates that match the style and functionality you want for your site. Consider factors like responsiveness (how well it works on mobile devices), ease of customisation, and compatibility with essential plugins. Reading reviews and checking ratings can also help you make an informed decision.
Can I use multiple templates on a single WordPress site?
Yes, you can use multiple templates on a single WordPress site. Most themes come with various templates for different pages and posts. For example, you might use one template for your homepage, another for your blog posts, and a different one for your contact page. This flexibility allows you to create a unique and cohesive design across your site.
How do WordPress website templates affect SEO?
WordPress website templates can significantly impact your site’s SEO. Well-designed templates ensure that your site loads quickly, is mobile-friendly, and has a clean and organised structure. These factors are important for search engine rankings. Additionally, some templates are specifically optimised for SEO and come with built-in features to help improve your site’s visibility.
Can I create my own WordPress website templates?
Yes, you can create your own WordPress website templates if you have some coding knowledge. You can start by creating a child theme and then designing your own templates using HTML, CSS, and PHP. Alternatively, you can use page builder plugins to design custom templates without needing to code. This allows you to tailor the design and functionality to meet your specific requirements.
What kind of support is available for WordPress website templates?
Support for WordPress website templates varies depending on the source. Free templates from the WordPress repository typically come with community support through forums. Premium templates often include dedicated support from the theme developer, including documentation, tutorials, and direct customer service. When choosing a template, consider the level of support available to ensure you can get help if needed.
What are the best practices for using WordPress website templates?
Best practices for using WordPress website templates include keeping your WordPress installation, themes, and plugins up to date to ensure security and compatibility. Regularly back up your site to prevent data loss. Customise your templates to match your brand identity, but avoid making too many changes that could complicate updates. Test your site on various devices to ensure it is fully responsive and provides a good user experience.
Entities to include in articles about WordPress website templates
When writing about WordPress website templates, include entities such as WordPress, content management system (CMS), themes, templates, customisation, page builders, Elementor, Beaver Builder, SEO, responsiveness, mobile-friendly design, WordPress Customizer, child theme, premium templates, free templates, WordPress repository, support, community forums, customer service, and best practices.
WordPress itself
Official Website
wordpress.org – This is the official website for WordPress, where you can download the software, find documentation, and learn more about using it.
WordPress Codex
codex.wordpress.org/Main_Page – This is a comprehensive documentation resource for WordPress, covering everything from installation and configuration to specific functionality and troubleshooting.
WordPress Theme Directory
wordpress.org/themes – The official WordPress theme directory is a great place to find free and premium WordPress themes. You can browse themes by category, feature, and popularity.
maxiblocks.com/go/help-desk
maxiblocks.com/pro-library
www.youtube.com/@maxiblocks
twitter.com/maxiblocks
linkedin.com/company/maxi-blocks
github.com/orgs/maxi-blocks
wordpress.org/plugins/maxi-blocks
Kyra Pieterse
Author
Kyra is the co-founder and creative lead of MaxiBlocks, an open-source page builder for WordPress Gutenberg.
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