Templates, layouts, themes, whatever you want to call them, determine how your website looks and feels. osCommerce is a great e-commerce platform, but the default installation yields a relatively so-so looking websites. A template is a way to take that so-so looking website and make it look completely customized and professional. The content and functionality of your website will remain the same -- the template just changes the way it all appears (in the form of attractive new imagery and a great layout. A layout can then be further customized with your own logo, company name, etc.
Freeoscommerce.com is a place where you can find a number of great templates (including many free ones) -- osCommerce 2.3 templates, osCommerce 2.2 with STS templates and osCommerce 3 templates.
Installing the osCommerce and the free layouts is a relatively easy process even for a novice web user. All you need is your own domain name and hosting account with php and mysql support. Many web hosts even have an auto-install feature for osCommerce. osCommerce is open-source and completely free. If you're willing to take a few minutes to set everything up yourself, having a great online store/website doesn't have to cost a penny!
To find instructions explaining how to install osCommerce and the templates, go to the installation section of the website.
The Simple Template System (STS), a free osCommerce add-on, is the template system osCommerce 2.2 should have come with. It makes using templates and editing your store's appearance easy. Read more.
Need help installing STS or an STS template? Contact us with your needs and we'll quote you a reasonable price.