template (n)
Synonyms: pattern, master, stencil, model, prototype, original, outline, shape
What really is the best word to use in describing so-called template holes?
Template has always (in my profession as well as engineering, manufacturing) indicated an exact copy to be replicated, inserted, manufactured or to use as preparation to replicate as near exactly as possible.
In software as a quick example it is a "bones" to be built upon.
CB Macdonald was inspired by these holes to create his own.
Template holes are a reference for inspiration - so of the above thesaurus "synonyms" outline probably comes closest as what one is really trying to do is be inspired by the strategies of great holes and reproduce their character, not to copy them.
Anyone better with coming up with a word that's more specific? (Funny that Jason is the word-splitting attorney, not me!) I've never really been inspired by "Template" and do confess to being a word freak as it is necessary for me to be as specific in terminology as possible.