What is the purpose of the "Template" sites under "CMS Collection Pages" in Webflow and should I create my collections there before rebuilding them in the "Static" sites?

The "Template" sites under "CMS Collection Pages" in Webflow serve a specific purpose in the design and development workflow. These templates are pre-designed layouts that can be used to display and style your dynamic content from CMS collections.

When you create CMS collections in Webflow, you have the option to build collection templates within an existing dynamic page or start from scratch with a static page. The choice between using the "Template" sites or "Static" sites depends on your workflow preferences and the complexity of your project.

Here are some key points to consider when deciding whether to create your collections in the "Template" sites or "Static" sites:

1. Design Consistency: If you want to establish a consistent look and feel across multiple collection pages, using the "Template" sites can be beneficial. By designing and styling your collection templates in these sites, you ensure that all dynamically generated pages adhere to the same visual identity.

2. Time Efficiency: If you need to rapidly prototype or iterate on your design, starting with the "Static" sites may be more efficient. You can quickly put together a layout without worrying about dynamic content until you're ready to integrate the collections. Once you're satisfied with the static design, you can then transfer it to a "Template" site to make it dynamic.

3. Customization Options: "Template" sites offer more advanced customization options specific to working with dynamic content. They provide access to dynamic lists, collection lists, and dynamic embeds, which can help you create dynamic layouts that display information from your CMS collections in a structured manner.

4. Ease of Management: If you have an existing CMS collection and want to rebuild it to improve performance or make significant changes, starting with a "Static" site might be the better approach. This allows you to make modifications to the structure and design without directly affecting the live collection templates.

In summary, the "Template" sites under "CMS Collection Pages" in Webflow are designed to provide a dedicated space for designing and styling dynamic content layouts. Whether you choose to create your collections there or start with static designs depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like design consistency, time efficiency, customization options, and ease of management when making your decision.