How to Choose Website Design Packages

By Olivia Johnson - Trusted UK Business Expert

Last Updated 8th of December 2024

5 minute read

Choosing the right website design package is an important decision for your business. It can determine how well your website meets your needs and the impression it leaves on your customers. We’re here to guide you through the process of selecting the best package for your goals.

To choose the best website design package, you need to consider factors such as your business needs, budget, desired features, and the level of customisation required. Packages range from basic templates to fully customised designs, each offering different levels of support and functionality.

There’s a lot more to consider when choosing a website design package, and we’ll break down the essential aspects you should know. Keep reading to learn how to make the best choice for your business.

What to Consider When Choosing Website Design Packages

Choosing the right website design package can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. The package you select will affect not only the look and feel of your website but also its performance, user experience, and scalability. Let’s go through the key points you need to consider to make an informed decision.

• Understand Your Business Needs: The first step in choosing a website design package is to evaluate your business needs. Are you looking for a simple website with basic features, or do you need a more advanced platform with e-commerce functionality, booking systems, or custom integrations? Your specific requirements will shape the type of design package you should be looking for. For example, if you’re a small business owner needing an online portfolio, a basic package with a pre-designed template may suffice. But if you’re running an e-commerce site or a business that relies heavily on its digital presence, a more advanced package with customisation options and extra features would be better.
• Set Your Budget: Website design packages vary widely in price. The cost typically depends on the level of customisation, the number of features, and the amount of support included. Before you start exploring different options, it’s important to have a clear idea of how much you are willing to spend. Basic website design packages can cost as little as £300 to £1,000. These packages typically include pre-made templates and limited customisation. More advanced packages that include custom designs, e-commerce features, and ongoing support can range from £1,000 to £5,000 or more. Having a budget in mind will help you narrow down your choices and find the right fit for your business.
• Choose Between Templates vs. Custom Designs: One of the biggest decisions you’ll face when selecting a website design package is whether to go with a template or a fully customised design. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to weigh these carefully.
  • Template-Based Design: Templates are pre-designed website layouts that are easy to set up and customise with your own content. These are great for businesses with simple needs or those on a limited budget. They are typically more affordable and faster to implement, but they come with limited flexibility in terms of layout and design changes.
  • Custom Design: A custom-designed website is built from scratch according to your specific needs and preferences. This option is ideal for businesses that need a unique look or specific functionality. While more expensive, custom designs offer complete control over the appearance and user experience, which can better reflect your brand identity.
• Evaluate Features and Functionality: Every website has its own set of features, and the design package you choose should offer the functionality you require. Here are a few key features to consider:
  • Mobile Responsiveness: It’s crucial that your website works well on both desktop and mobile devices. Most design packages include mobile-friendly designs, but make sure this feature is included, especially if a large portion of your traffic comes from mobile users.
  • E-Commerce Integration: If you plan on selling products or services online, ensure the package includes e-commerce functionality, such as payment gateways, product pages, and inventory management.
  • SEO Optimisation: Search engine optimisation (SEO) is vital for driving traffic to your website. Many design packages offer SEO tools, but not all of them do. Check if the package includes SEO features such as meta tags, keyword placement, and fast loading times.
  • Content Management System (CMS): A CMS allows you to easily update your website’s content without needing technical skills. WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal are some of the most popular CMS options available. Make sure the package you choose is compatible with a CMS that meets your needs.
• Assess the Level of Support: Website design isn’t just about the build – ongoing support is essential to keeping your site up and running. Different packages offer different levels of support, from basic email support to full 24/7 customer service. If you’re not tech-savvy or need a lot of help maintaining your website, make sure to choose a package that includes a good level of support. For businesses with more complex needs, you might want to look into packages that include regular updates, security patches, and technical support. This can prevent potential issues and ensure your site is always up-to-date.

How to Choose the Best Design Features for Your Website

Now that you’ve considered the basics, it’s time to dive into the specific design features your website will need. Let’s look at the essential design elements that can enhance your website’s performance and user experience.

• Navigation: A well-designed website should have simple, intuitive navigation. Visitors should be able to find the information they need easily and quickly. When choosing a design package, check how flexible the navigation options are and whether you can customise menus, submenus, and site maps to suit your audience.
• Branding Elements: Your website is an extension of your brand, so it’s essential to maintain consistent branding across all pages. Choose a package that allows for customisation of colours, fonts, logos, and imagery to align with your brand identity.
• Call-to-Action (CTA): Effective websites guide users toward a specific action, whether it’s purchasing a product, signing up for a newsletter, or contacting your business. Make sure your website design package includes the ability to create strong, visible CTAs throughout your site.
• User Experience (UX): The best websites offer a seamless user experience that encourages visitors to stay longer and interact with content. When reviewing design packages, consider whether they offer tools to enhance UX, such as fast loading times, clean layouts, and engaging multimedia content.
• Scalability: Your website should be able to grow with your business. Choose a package that allows for scalability, whether through adding new features, expanding your product offerings, or improving the site’s infrastructure as your traffic increases.

FAQ

How much should I spend on a website design package?

The cost of a website design package varies depending on the complexity of your needs. For a small business, packages typically range from £300 to £5,000. More advanced custom designs can cost significantly more.

What is the difference between a template and a custom design?

Template designs are pre-made layouts that are quick and affordable to set up but offer limited customisation. Custom designs are built from scratch to meet your specific needs and branding but come with a higher price tag.

Do I need ongoing support after my website is built?

Yes, ongoing support is crucial to ensure your website stays updated, secure, and functional. Some packages include technical support, regular updates, and troubleshooting services.

Can I change my website design package later on?

Many design providers offer flexible options to upgrade or modify your package as your business grows. Check with your provider about their terms for making changes to your design package.

How long does it take to build a website?

The timeline for building a website depends on the package you choose. A template-based site can take a few weeks, while a custom-designed site can take several months.

Selecting the right website design package is an important decision that will shape the online presence of your business. By understanding your needs, setting a budget, and evaluating the features and support included in each package, you can find the perfect solution to create a professional and effective website.