Using a web site template to speed up the development of your web site is a great idea. Just make sure that you personalize it. Both your product or service, and basic Search Engine Optimization should be considered during the planning of any web site. And the best time for implementing good SEO is during the initial design stage.

If you are using a custom web site template, always try and make enough changes to separate your site from others who may be using same professional web site template. Different colors, varied layout, different menus, all can help give your web site a different look and feel.

If you are using an Ecommerce web site template, make sure that your shopping cart and/or payment gateway is compatible. The payment process is a huge part of any web site that sells products. Making it as easy as possible for a visitor to buy should be on the top off your must do list.

If you plan on using a flash web site template, be aware that you will need special software to edit, change, or add any flash material. Normally flash templates come in both HTML web site templates and flash versions to make them more appealing and easy to use for a beginner.

Don't over design or use too many special design effects. If you look at some of the most successful web sites on the Internet you'll find that they keep it clean and simple. If you are in the entertainment business, then it's probably OK to use a little more flashy design. Or if the flash has some benefit to displaying products or explaining services, then use it. But don't over design just because you can.

Loud and unexpected music is always a turn off. Images and illustrations that take minutes to load are never a good idea. That goes for an entry page too. You normally have about 3-5 seconds to get the visitor's attention and any delays are not a good thing. Also try and observe the 2 click rule which is the visitor should be able to find exactly what they want in 2 clicks or less.

Proper keyword research and both on and off site SEO procedures is a requirement. I always recommend you combine elements for a great user experience with good search engine friendly components. Both types of visitors are important to the success of any web site. Since an overwhelming number of people use search engines to find what they want, making your web site search engine friendly is important.

Ignore the visitor or the search engines and you will be disappointed with your results. Some items that are necessary for users and search engines are:

Easy to understand and use navigation – Make it easy for people visiting your web site to find the information they want fast. Clearly name pages and links in accordance with the content.

Clear and concise information on products and services – Specifics about your products or services like color, size, availability, is important. A FAQ (frequently asked questions) web page can help visitors understand any common questions and answers.

Full contact and ownership information – Clearly stating who owns the web site and how to contact with any questions before or after the sale helps establish credibility. Make it easy for them to find contact information.

Easy methods to buy products if applicable or specific contact information – Make it easy to buy with clear instructions and shopping cart navigation. Display easy to understand navigation and check out options on every page of the buying process.

Clear and easy to understand guarantees, terms, and warranties – Another credibility issue is your guarantee and warranty. If you clearly state your terms for shipping, returns, or refunds it increases the buyer confidence.

Every web page within the web site should have a unique purpose and be clearly titled in menus or navigation links. Make it easy for the visitor to find the information they are looking for with navigation on every web page. If appropriate, use mouse overs (that's where the pointer passes over a word and sees a description or definition in a little pop up box) for additional information.

One of the most effective methods of communication on your web site is to use stories to explain your products or services. Instead of just listing your items or services, give examples of why, how, and what benefits are obtainable. It is a known fact that benefits sell better than features. By all means list the features but don't forget to explain the benefits.

Both visitors and search engines look for the same thing, content! Keep that in mind during the design and development stages of your web site. Illustrations, graphics, and photos can be of value if they are associated with the content. But don't let the design get in the way of your message or quality of the content.

Web site templates can speed up the design and implementation of any web site. I rarely start a web site without some kind of base layout and color scheme. But a good rule is to keep it simple and attractive. Give the visitor the content they are searching for quickly and make sure it has some value to the search term. Always personalize any professional web site template to your product or service.