We often get asked why we use WordPress as our content management system for client websites. Many people think that because WordPress is free, and because it started as a blogging platform, that it is not robust enough to adequately serve larger businesses or e-commerce websites.
But, with over 30% of CMS-based websites around the world built on the WordPress platform, it certainly is capable of supporting even the largest enterprises. In fact, large companies such as The New Yorker, The Walt Disney Company and TechCrunch all use the WordPress platform for their websites.
Like some of its competitors, WordPress is free to use. But unlike other competitors, WordPress is much more user-friendly for novices. The WordPress platform can be easily updated, even without the help of a web designer or developer.
Here are just some of the reasons why we here at ACA Web Consulting use the WordPress platform for our client websites.
Easily Make It Your Own
There are tens of thousands of options for customizing the look and functionality of your site. Plugins, which are small bits of code that are easily uploaded to your site for specific functionality, can add features such as contact forms, social media sharing options, e-commerce and photo galleries. As your business grows, plugins allow you the convenience and flexibility to improve your site’s features without having to start fresh or pay a ton of money to a developer to build it for you.
No Experience Necessary
It is easy to get started with WordPress even if you’ve never dabbled in web design before. The platform is easy to navigate, making it relatively straightforward to set up a basic website. And because of its popularity, there are thousands of online tutorials that can help you set up different aspects of your WordPress website on your own. Additionally, WordPress is open-source software, which means that there is a very strong and enthusiastic WordPress community who is always available to help if you get stuck.
Search Engines Love WordPress
Google and other search engines like WordPress websites. There are multiple built-in tools and uploadable plugins that can help you manage and improve your search engine rankings. Plus, the WordPress platform itself is updated regularly, something that search engines favor. Most WordPress themes are mobile responsive, which means that they look good on any sized device, from smartphone to tablet, laptop to desktop. Any good WordPress web designer or developer will make sure that your site is mobile responsive.
Built In Blogging Feature
Because WordPress started as a blogging platform, it is simple to include a blog feature on your website. And because of the intuitive nature of the dashboard, it is easy to create and post new blogs on your own without the help of a professional. Publishing relevant, information-rich and well-written content on your blog also helps to improve your search engine rankings.
Not only do we enjoy building WordPress sites, but we love to help our clients learn the platform and feel confident maintaining and updating it on their own as their business grows. If you have an existing WordPress website and would like to learn how to better use it, don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about our WordPress Website Consulting services.