WordPress popularity is sky high. It’s used by large, medium and small companies. But is it right for everyone?
Speaking from my experience in training companies on how to use WordPress websites, both custom made and off the shelf themes, I often asked myself…How has WordPress achieved such status and is it deserved?
Comparing Open Source providers, in my opinion, the learning curve of Drupal and the reliability of Joomla has set the stage for WordPress. WordPress (WP) is much more user friendly and easier for non-developers then Drupal, and it’s a much better product then Joomla due to its capabilities in both simple and complex sites.
There are a number of commercial systems with big brand names and heavy fees that can provide a steep learning curve, paired with a tiered and feature heavy platform, that can make updates crazy expensive. Not much DIY with these types of systems.
So WP is arguably a better product then its open source and commercial competitors.
At a small business conference recently, someone re-iterated that the most powerful part of WordPress is its community.
WP has thrived due to its welcoming nature and DIY community who provide free support, along with plenty of free information and tutorials, that empower you to build your own site. This suits small businesses, and SMEs make up 97% of all Australian businesses.
Small business owners get really busy running the business and often don’t have a lot of time, but the WP community is loud and there is a always a specialist WP developer and designer on hand to help. It’s worth looking up WordPress teams or trainers in your area, to help you navigate the platform and get the best out of it.
Overall, medium sized businesses with a budget is where I think WP is the best fit. Having a bit of budget will tick all the boxes;
- Competitor analysis
- GA review (Google Analytics, if it exists)
- Strategy
- Wireframes,
- Content,
- UX (User Experience),
- Website Design,
- Web Development
When done properly the impact should be powerful and often is.
Whats the greatest risk with WordPress?
Many budgets have gone to waste because the project structure was wrong, for example creating content last, or not doing any research and just building what you think the customer wants. Know what you want and justify it with data. Look at what your competitors are doing. Get some ideas. And execute with a solid process.
WordPress is an enabler for great ideas and good strategy. It’s not a magic pill that will bring customers to your door instantly but it is a powerful tool, the rest is up to you and your strategy.