Custom Websites, like Way Custom.

 

Custom, like Way Custom – Websites

So using Divi Builder is awesome. Overall, this is a great theme with a ton of appeal. One thing I've noticed though is that when creating a custom website, and by this I mean without the structure of a template, things can be tricky at first.

The first thing that I found when creating a 'from-scratch' website is that it can be difficult to find that initial foundation of consistency. This was mainly due to what I would consider a 'hidden' global section.

Global Sections – Divi Builder.

The premise for using global sections, such as headers and footers is such that you can edit once and update all. For example, if you have 50 pages all with the same global footer, you can edit one of these footers, and it would automatically update on all of the other 49 pages. Pretty convenient.

There are instances, though, where a global header can be hidden in the sense that it does not show in your builder as a 'global section'. This bit of unfound information bit me, right in the quota!

The Global Lowball.

So in the midst of the foundation of one of my websites, I found myself victim to this venomous global jackal. I had began creating my 2^nd page, which was completely different from my 1^st variation and had published and tested. Looked great. I then started in on my 3^rd page, a little more tricky, but hey I got the solution I needed.

Then, it happened! When I went back to check the other previously completed pages, all content (and formatting for various devices) had been replaced with the content of my 3^rd page. I immediately said "what in the divi privi is going on here". After much verbal fumigating, I finally realized that my original header (no, it wasn't green) was in fact a global header.

At this stage, the frustration (and lack of trustation) was concerning because I had recalled checking during the 1^st page stage to see if the header was global, and, though it didn't show in the builder templates, it also did not exhibit the color green which symbolized a global header. Thought I was safe, Not.

The main reason why I am telling this gruesome, time-killing story is that if it can help just one designer not go down this global road, it will be a message well served. Let's be clear though, global sections can be great, but you have to Really be careful.

The Safe Solution.

If you are taking on a website design, completely from scratch using divi builder, create a builder template for each page.

This will allow you to:

• duplicate a theme template you want to use for the next/another page

• then, apply that template to a page you already have created (before making Any edits)

• you can still use a Global Footer (even if you header is not)

The Checklist to Avoid the Global Jackal:

• test all Headers (even if they are blue)

  • even if they are black, blue or pooka-dot

• create a new template duplicate for each page

  • unless you have a simplistic header (separated distinctly)

  • unless you have every intention of duplicating

• Be organized

  • don't stray from your structure

• If you are new to Divi Builder

  • backup your pages

  • though, global will reach your backup pages as well

• Be diligent, if you are designing from scratch

  • like, way scratch

This has been a PSA to all those out there in Diviland. All the best.

We design websites in Saskatoon, and across North America.