Choosing the right WordPress Theme is very important. Each theme developer integrates WordPress core functionality in different ways. Our job is to ensure the theme you choose supports the functionality, navigational structure, and overall layout you desire before we begin designing your site. Customizing a theme is doable to a point. We can easily customize:

• The header (top of page) graphic
• The color scheme and core graphics
• The sidebar layout (often called widgets)

Additional customizations can be made, however, what becomes costly is when you want to rework the actual structure of the site. Modifying sections of the site that are non-widgetized or increasing/decreasing the width of the site can create a domino effect of changes. In this case it would be more cost efficient to choose a more suitable theme.

We provide a list of themes we know and like below. Go through each theme’s demo and think about the following as they relate to your website needs:

• Navigation: Does the navigation bar support top level and secondary level navigation? Having both gives you more options as your business grows. Before we choose a theme, it’s important to list out the category and subcategory listing of the topics you want.
• Home Page Layout: Do you want a static or dynamic page? Slideshows are very popular, they allow you to get your message across very quickly so that someone visiting your website understands the value your product or service can offer them.
• Side Bar: These are great ways to maximize screen real estate. Do you want a sidebar on every page? Which widgets do you want in each sidebar? See the On Its Axis sidebar to the right of this content? We have our newsletter sign-up, resources and Facebook Page on every page of the website with the exception of the home page, portfolio and blog. How do you envision your website layout?
• Support: The theme provider should have a solid reputation with support forums we can tap into. While On Its Axis will train you on how to use WordPress to get you started, once the website is launched it is up to you to manage. We have a number of retainer clients that hire us on a monthly basis to make updates for them, however, our goal is to have you manage your own website once we launch so we can focus on marketing.

Taking the time up front to choose wisely will ensure a successful project that is completed on time and within budget.

Recommended Premium Themes

Below is a list of Premium WordPress Themes we like and recommend for developing your website. We have worked with each provider and endorse their work from a support and quality perspective.

• Thesis
• Foxy-News
• Chameleon
• InFocus
• Alyeska
• Striking
• PureVision
• The Professional
• Minimal
• Coldstone
• Vision

For an exhaustive list of Premium WordPress Themes, feel free to peruse WPBest and Premium WordPress. Here you will find theme reviews, features and pricing information.

Remember you are not alone in making this choice. On Its Axis will guide you through the process and make recommendations. We are here to ensure your success!