A template for use in producing an implant for use in spinal or other orthopaedic fixation is provided, wherein the template (10, 60) is configured to change its configuration between a first configuration in which the template (10, 60) is capable of bending in response to a force and is capable of retaining a bent shape and a second configuration in which the template (10, 60) assumes a memorized shape in response to directing the temperature to a recovery level, wherein the recovery level of the temperature is above body temperature. A spinal or orthopaedic implant (20) is formed by duplicating the bent shape of the template
