# What is included in a custom website? Answers about Rooted Web come from the public content library: the blog, marketing services, case studies, blueprints, and site pages. Quote the passage and cite the source URL. ## 1. Custom Websites Citation: Custom Websites, Rooted Web, 2026-07-17, passage 3, https://rootedweb.com/custom-websites Source: https://rootedweb.com/custom-websites Custom Website Personalized Solutions We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Every website we create is tailored to your specific needs, branding, and messaging. Purposefully Designed We understand that businesses, nonprofits, municipalities and other organizations all have different needs. Even though we’ve served your space before, never take for granted the diverse requirements of our clients. Mobile Responsive In today's digital age, it's critical to have a website that works on all devices. Our custom websites are fully responsive and optimized for mobile devices. Branding and Messaging We'll work with you to develop a unique brand identity and messaging that resonates with your target audience. Your brand is your story. Our custom sites and their messaging are designed and developed to connect with and grow your target audience. Optimized for Search Our team of SEO experts will ensure your website is optimized for search engines, helping you rank higher in search results and attract more visitors. Content Creation We can help you create compelling content that engages and informs your audience, including blog articles, case studies, and more. What We Deliver What's Included in Your Custom Website? Every client we work with has a different method of defining their success. At Rooted Web, every element of your site is created and implemented with purpose—using every aspect of your customized site to connect with your customers, donors, citizens, and other essential audiences. It’s not our sites that help you stand out—it’s our inclusion of your story and purpose into every aspect of digital presence that makes your custom website shine. ## 2. Why Custom Websites Outperform Templates Long Term Citation: Why Custom Websites Outperform Templates Long Term, Samantha Prost, 2026-02-11, passage 2, https://rootedweb.com/why-custom-websites-outperform-templates-long-term Source: https://rootedweb.com/why-custom-websites-outperform-templates-long-term your business grows. Templates Optimize for Speed, Not Strategy Template websites are designed for quick deployment. That speed comes from standardization. Most templates: - Use generic layouts - Assume a broad audience - Follow one-size-fits-all content structures - Prioritize visual appeal over conversion logic This approach works when your needs are simple. It becomes limiting when your business evolves. As soon as you need to: - Support multiple services - Target different customer segments - Create content tailored to buyer intent - Improve conversion rates intentionally The template starts to work against you. Custom websites are built around strategy from the start. Pages are structured based on how your customers think, search and decide. That foundation pays dividends over time. Custom Websites Reflect Your Brand, Not Someone Else’s One of the biggest long-term drawbacks of templates is brand dilution. Even with customization, templates often look and feel familiar. Prospective customers may not consciously recognize the design, but they sense sameness. When your website looks like dozens of others: - Trust is slower to build - Authority is harder to establish - Differentiation becomes unclear Custom websites are designed to express your brand intentionally. This includes: - Unique layout choices that guide attention - Messaging hierarchy that reflects your value - Visual design that supports credibility - Content structure aligned with your voice Over time, this consistency strengthens brand recognition and trust, especially in competitive or relationship driven industries. SEO Performance Is Stronger with Custom Builds Search engine optimization is not just about keywords. It is about structure, performance and relevance. ## 3. Template vs Custom Website: Creating the Site of Your Dreams Citation: Template vs Custom Website: Creating the Site of Your Dreams, Ryan Berger, 2022-01-25, passage 2, https://rootedweb.com/template-vs-custom-website-creating-the-site-of-your-dreams Source: https://rootedweb.com/template-vs-custom-website-creating-the-site-of-your-dreams that is reused on many websites with some minor changes. This option usually comes at a lower cost and can be faster to produce—if you’re fairly tech-savvy and have dependable computer hardware. Simply pick a template that appeals to you, put in your pictures and business details, and there’s your website. Well, at least a website; unfortunately, dozens to hundreds of other people have the exact same website, just with different pictures and phone numbers. Custom Built The alternative is a custom website. This means that everything on the site is unique to you—and not just the images you choose to use. This is great because it allows you to give the first impression that you truly want, separating you from the pack and allowing customers to understand exactly how and why you’re unique. However, this can be a lengthier and more expensive process. The firm you hire to design and develop your custom website will need your feedback throughout the process in order to ensure that the final product is right for you. If this seems like a hassle, know the benefits it offers are well worth it. Only when a developer truly understands your company can they make the right website for it. So, if you do go this route, be sure to give open and honest feedback throughout the process. You’re not going to hurt the developer’s feelings; they won’t be offended that you didn’t like the shade of green they chose because they can’t make the best website for your small business if you don’t tell them what you like and, more importantly, don’t like. The Ultimate Choice So what’s the better choice? ## 4. Copyright Infringement: It’s Not a Good Thing Citation: Copyright Infringement: It’s Not a Good Thing, Ryan Berger, 2022-04-07, passage 2, https://rootedweb.com/copyright-infringement Source: https://rootedweb.com/copyright-infringement your own content. It can be time consuming, and even the smartest person in the world doesn’t know everything. Sometimes, it’s best to leave content creation to experts in their respective fields. If you’re going to use someone else’s content, be sure to ask permission. The worst they can do is say no. When you do use others’ content, be sure to backlink to their original publication and give them credit for their work. Are there times when copyright doesn’t apply? Great question! There absolutely are times when copyright doesn’t apply. For instance, you’re always allowed to use items that fall under “public domain.” These include facts, discoveries and works dating before 1926. Most Sherlock Holmes stories, for example, are public domain works. There are several additional exemptions to copyright law, including a commonly used phrase known as “fair use.” Fair use allows for the unlicensed use of copyrighted materials in certain circumstances. Some common cases that fall under fair use include educational purposes, criticism, commentary and research. However, fair use does not provide blanket protection, and there are instances where copyright still may apply. Ultimately, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Copyright truly is an instance where it’s better to ask for permission rather than forgiveness. The best way to avoid copyright issues is to create and post original content. However, that can be daunting. That’s where we come in. We provide clients with original content, custom websites and full-scale digital marketing solutions. Contact us today. To learn more about copyright law, visit copyright.gov. ## 5. Does a Business Website Save You Money? Citation: Does a Business Website Save You Money?, Samantha Prost, 2020-10-30, passage 1, https://rootedweb.com/does-a-business-website-save-you-money Source: https://rootedweb.com/does-a-business-website-save-you-money Having a website for your company isn’t marketing, it’s business. It’s just as important as having a phone number or a product to sell. And I don’t mean a Facebook page that solely holds all your information—I mean a dedicated business website that either completes the sale, provides information about your product or service, or provides contact information to further the discussion with you. Initial Costs As with everything in life, there is a cost for web design. Depending on your hosting provider and the design firm you choose, the cost varies tremendously. You can design a functional business website through services like Squarespace on the cheap or you can hire a custom website design company for several thousand dollars. Even if you go with a template design, adding widgets and plugins can drive up the price. But what is the true cost of a website? Time and effort. What are the rewards? Bunches! Save on Marketing Dollars When you take the time to design a custom website, you control your marketing. This tool is an extension of you. It’s a billboard, a radio spot, a TV commercial and a print ad all rolled into one. You should use other forms of marketing too, but with a great website, most of the work is done. While you sleep, people can visit that website, place sales and spread the word about you! Plus, you don’t have to have astronomical printing costs. No more rack cards sitting on a shelf collecting dust; you are constantly using your marketing materials now! Save on Time Wasted