Week 1A: Choosing a Template

My first step into the exciting world of social media was to create a blog. I decided to go to blogger.com and get started there. After a few simple questions, I was asked to choose a template. There was a note saying I could change templates later so I just clicked on one and finished the sign in process.

Finally, I went back to the templates section of the site. I clicked on a couple of templates, but couldn't choose one because I didn't know what the posts would look like. At this point, I went back into the control panel and set up a couple of test posts with images, then went back to the templates and finally chose the template you see here. Below are some notes on the various templates.

In the end, I chose the Watermark template because I liked the dark colors, the intro to the blog was complete and the focus seemed to point to the actual posts. Remember though, with many of the templates, you can upload a background image of your choosing.

Simple

This template was appealing. I kept it in mind for consideration.

Dynamic Views

Dynamic Views was not so dynamic. The description of the blog was cut off. All the images suddenly jumped from the right side of the page to the left while the text was all over the place. Thumbs down on Dynamic.

Picture Window

Picture Window is a nice template, but I did not like the white text on this particular background. There were other versions of Picture Window, and you can change the background so I am keeping it in mind. The white text would work with a dark background.

Awesome, Inc.

Awesome seems too busy. I wanted this blog to focus on the posts. Of course, you can change the background, but even if you put black as the background, the elements are all over the place, color wise.

Watermark

Watermark seems simple and focused on the posts. I like it, but I'm not really sold on it. I may change to another template.

Ethereal

Ethereal was pretty and feminine. I loved the look, but not for a blog about business.

Travel



The Travel template has more promise than you might guess at first. Change the background and it might be a very nice look for a business blog.

Conclusion



The most important thing is to jump right in and try it for yourself. Nothing is set in stone so go ahead and try it. Remember, computers are just dumb machines. You and your creativity are in control so have a blast!