Template or custom? Two paths for the corporation's websites
Blog
2 min
Blog
2 min
All companies in a group do not have the same needs. A smaller subsidiary may need a simple website that can be set up quickly, while a larger company may require a completely custom solution. In this blog post, we describe how groups can combine a common template with tailored solutions.
When a template is enough
Many companies within a corporate group have similar needs. They need to present their business, showcase products or services, publish news and make it easy for visitors to get in touch. For these companies, a shared template works well. The website can be launched quickly, costs are lower and the template is updated centrally. Each company retains its own visual identity and content.
When a custom solution is needed
Other companies have requirements that a standard template cannot meet. These might include e-commerce, integrations with ERP systems or product data, customer portals, or a brand that requires a completely unique design. In these cases, a custom-built solution is often the right choice. It can still be built on the same CMS and technical foundation as the group's other websites, making ongoing maintenance easier.
The benefits of combining both approaches
When a corporate group offers both options, each company gets a solution that matches its needs, without unnecessary complexity or limitations. Every improvement to the shared template also benefits all websites using it. This means a feature requested by one company can become available to everyone.
How we helped Weland and Industrireklam
The Weland Group uses two approaches. The first is Weland Light, a shared Umbraco template developed by Toxic, where updates are automatically rolled out to all connected websites. More than ten websites have been launched using the template so far.
The second approach involves custom-built websites for companies with their own brands or more specific functional requirements.
When one company requested a new feature, such as a video hero section, it could be made available to all companies using the shared template.
Jenny Wilde, CEO and Managing Director of Industrireklam, says: "We see a major advantage in having many of the companies within our group use the same structure and layout for their websites." Read the full case study.
Want to find the right balance?
At Toxic, we help corporate groups find the right balance between shared solutions and individual needs. Learn more about how we help corporate groups.
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