WordPress is the leading open source content management system. More than 50% of the world’s websites run on this content management system, making it an ideal choice if you want to create a new site. Being an open source platform has its limitations, one of which is that most websites look like the users of the site. This can be a disadvantage, especially if you want a unique, big-brand website that stands out from the rest. Fortunately, you can still have a unique, highly rated site that runs on the WordPress platform thanks to custom themes.
What are custom WordPress themes?
The themes for blogs based on this content management system are generally classified into free and premium themes. They are usually publicly available for download. Custom WordPress templates, on the other hand, are premium templates that are not publicly available for download. These themes are developed specifically to suit the needs of a particular company.
Who creates custom WordPress templates?
Individual developers or agencies can develop custom templates. The main qualification for a WordPress template developer is an understanding of the content management system and the technologies used to build it, such as PHP, JavaScript, and CSS. The developed template must be compatible with one or more of the existing versions, as well as with the plugins and widgets available.
How much will it cost to develop a theme?
As with other web design and development projects, a number of factors will go into determining how much a custom WordPress theme will cost. These factors include:
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Theme Specifications
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Expected duration of the project
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Whether you hire an individual developer or agency
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Any additional services needed in addition to development.
Based on these and other factors, WordPress template development can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. It is also more expensive to have a custom theme developed compared to buying a premium theme.
Is it worth investing in a custom WordPress template?
While the high cost is the main disadvantage associated with developing a custom theme, it becomes a worthwhile investment if you want the following.
1) A WordPress theme that you really own
Premium themes offer partial ownership. That is, you can customize the theme to meet the specific needs of your website. However, the theme remains the property of the developer who created it. Custom WordPress templates give you full ownership. Once the template is complete, the developer transfers ownership to you. Besides making modifications, you can now offer the theme for free or as a premium theme to others.
2) You need a unique and branded WordPress website
If you want a theme that has a unique feel and doesn’t look too much like the premium and free templates available, a custom template is a great option. Custom design templates give you more control over how your WordPress site will look once it is complete. It also allows you to focus on specific functionalities that you would like to have on your website, but are not handled well with free or premium themes.
If you want to launch a WordPress site and have financial resources, getting a custom template developed for the site is a good option. A custom theme offers better control and gives you full ownership over the template.