Help with a little web design dilemma please?

[zpivat]

I normally design websites for my clients by hand coding (i.e: from scratch), but right now I am faced with a situation where purchasing a template would be a better/most optimal solution.

Now, for those of you who use templates for your clients, how do you tell your clients to choose the template? Do you direct them to the website where the template is sold? Do you take a screenshot of the templates, paste them onto MS Word and then show to your clients? Paste the screenshots, compile them into a PDF and show them to customers?

What would be the best way to do this?

Thanks!

[ZenDude]

I'd say: do what looks most professional. Make it easy for your client to pick a template. Pick a couple of templates YOU think are good and good looking. Don't try to hide the fact that you're using a template. Also make clear that buying a template is far from having a complete website.

Good luck

[moltar]

Yes, pick a hand-full of templates, maybe 5 at most that you think are good. Don't give the client the option of all TM database. I know that it sounds counter-intuitive, but less options is better. And as ZenDude mentioned, don't hide the fact that you are using templates.

As for how, I think it all depends on how you usually conduct your business. If you are writing a proposel, then definetely insert the screenshots in the document. Make sure you print them on glossy paper though, otherwise it will look rubbish.

[zpivat]

Thanks a lot for the feedbacks! They're greatly appreciated .

I, too, don't really feel good about hiding the fact that I'm using a template. The only reason why I thought I shouldn't tell about it is because I feared the client would think I'm incompetent "hey, he's trying to cheat me!! If all to be done is put some text onto a pre-made template, then even a child could do it too!"

But if you guys think that letting them know is okay, then I guess I'd just do it too.......

Hmmm.....!!

[zpivat]

and by the way, how should I "defend" myself if I'm asked why use template and not design things from scratch?
I don't think it's "illegal" to use/buy a template, as I know many web designers do it too, but some clients could misunderstand things, if you know what I mean?

[Jon]

Originally Posted by zpivat

and by the way, how should I "defend" myself if I'm asked why use template and not design things from scratch?
I don't think it's "illegal" to use/buy a template, as I know many web designers do it too, but some clients could misunderstand things, if you know what I mean?

So why DO you want to use the template and not design it yourself?

[Brutha]

Just tell them that it would be cheaper for them when the buy the templete than when you build the site from scratch.

[Nemo]

I would ask the client if it is ok to use a template. Be open about it. Perhaps the client explicitly wants a custom website, and would reject a template. If it makes no difference to him, tell him about the cost difference.

[aussieNickuss]

Pick the template you like the most and then offer it as your own design...maybe slightly modified.

Is that corrupt...or a good business strategy?