Why Use WordPress?

WordPress open source software

We proudly use WordPress to build websites. Sometimes people ask, “Why use WordPress?” After all, there are several other options for creating websites. Hosting companies like GoDaddy offer their own website builder software. SquareSpace, Wix and Weebly provide an opportunity for “DIY” business owners to create a decent website without being tech savvy.

There are 3 main reasons why we use WordPress exclusively:

  1. Content Management System
  2. Open Source Software
  3. Community

Content Management System

A Content Management System (CMS) is software used to create and manage digital content. This type of software for websites supports the separation of content and presentation. The benefits of a content management system are that they allow a user to edit content without the need for special software or technical coding knowledge.

Open Source

WordPress is open source software, and currently runs  35% of the internet. Open source products and software include permission for all to use the source code, design documents, or content of the product. This means anyone in the world can contribute to the code used for WordPress. In many cases this makes open source software like WordPress better. Instead of a corporate structure like SquareSpace or Wix dictating what important features and enhancements are worth developing, users of open source software can solve problems on their own. If you Google “Is there a WordPress plugin for ____ (pick something you might want your website to do)” … the answer is probably YES. With WordPress, since you control the code used on your website, you don’t have to wait for a feature to be created – you have permission to create it or hire someone to create it for you.

Community

Tara Claeys at WordCamp DC
Tara Claeys, Speaker at WordCamp DC 2017

Part of the character of open source and WordPress is that there is a large and collaborative community of users and developers. Because of the open nature of the code, the community is based on the concept of sharing and working together. This environment inspires collaboration and involvement. I have spoken at several WordPress Meetups and conferences, called WordCamps, to share knowledge and information with others. This connection allows us to work with the best  contractors for advanced projects, and to be on the cutting edge of new industry developments as an active member of the WordPress community.

Technology changes quickly, and WordPress may not be the best solution for websites in the future. But we believe WordPress has the staying power to continue to grow beyond its 35% of web. Even if it evolves and changes, the community will change with it, and direct it to where it will be most useful and effective.

Wondering if your site should be on WordPress? Let’s chat!