There are many ways to build a website. You’ve probably seen some even advertised on TV … Squarespace, Wix, or perhaps GoDaddy.
If you’re reading this post, chances are you’re looking at hiring ARTILLERY to build your website and you’re wondering why we use WordPress.
In this post, I’m going to highlight the top 5 reasons we use WordPress.
First, let’s get a couple definitions out of the way.
There are 2 versions of WordPress.
WordPress.com
WordPress.com is a DIY (do-it-yourself) website builder product like Squarespace, Wix, and Weebly. You build the site yourself. If you run into issues, you contact WordPress.com for help.
WordPress.org
WordPress.org is the same website building technology, but you download it and host it yourself. By hosting yourself, you have more capabilities … more on this in reason #4.
ARTILLERY uses WordPress.org … and so do millions of others. For the rest of the article when I say “WordPress”, I’m talking about the WordPress.org version. We host WordPress for you so no need to worry about that piece.
Another term to get clear right away is “CMS”. CMS stands for Content Management System. A site allowing a client to login and make updates is built with a Content Management System. Most modern websites are built using a CMS. An example of an exception may be a tech startup who happens to have a web developer on staff who can make changes to code every time something needs updated on their website.
We build websites our clients can easily log into and make changes through an easy-to-use graphic interface provided by the Content Management System (CMS).
Now that we have definitions crystal clear, let’s get to the 5 reasons we use WordPress.
1. It’s #1.
Of all websites built with a CMS, WordPress powers 41% … and growing.
https://joost.blog/cms-market-share/
WordPress is by far the leader at 41.7%.
Shopify is the next leader at 3.6%. You would only use Shopify if you’re going to sell products online.
Squarespace and Wix are in a race for 3rd place at 1.7% and 1.6%. Most of the sites being built with Squarespace, Wix, Weebly, and Blogger are DIY folks building their own site.
Joomla and Drupal are 2 other CMSs web design agencies will use to build sites. These are usually used for sites that require advanced functionality. Using these CMSs on a marketing site for a company would be a bit overkill and expensive.
If you’re a business needing a marketing site, WordPress is the most popular route … by far.
2. We’re experts in WordPress.
We’ve been building sites with WordPress for over 10 years. We’ve also developed WordPress products other web designers purchase and use. We manage over 250 sites (and growing) built with WordPress.
3. It’s supported.
WordPress is supported by the company that made it, Automattic, but it’s also open-source. The open-source approach allows many developers to submit enhancements, security fixes, etc. Think of it like being “crowd-funded” … but rather “crowd-enhanced”. Thousands of developers are constantly working on WordPress developing more features, strengthening security, and improving WordPress. Code undergoes a rigorous peer review system and code reviews before it’s added to WordPress.
Because of WordPress’s popularity, thousands of designers and developers are skilled within WordPress. In over 15 years of building websites, I personally do not know a single web designer who has built their business on Squarespace (Wix, Weebly, GoDaddy, etc.) … however I know many who exclusively use WordPress.
This wide adoption means if you go with us for your new site, you’re not “stuck” with us … although we think you’ll enjoy working with us for the long term!
4. It’s scalable.
The popularity of WordPress has caused companies to develop products solely for the WordPress ecosystem. These products bring a wide range of options to scale and enhance your site. Need a business directory feature? No problem. Need a membership area of your site? Yes, we can do that. Need an online store? Absolutely. Need a custom way to showcase your showroom of products? Let’s get started. WordPress can be scaled and feature-enhanced to serve many purposes.
5. We can secure it.
We manage and host hundreds of websites. Not a single site on our watch has been hacked. We know how to secure WordPress and have it be a safe environment for you and your site visitors.
First impressions matter. A visitor’s first time to your website matters. If that first visit to your website ends up showing them something you did not intend … or them being forwarded to a dangerous website … that’s a first impression you do not want. It is vital to know your website is safe and reliable.
WordPress is the #1 CMS on the planet. If you need a marketing website, a WordPress-powered website is the best fit for you.
The reasons above allow me to confidently say WordPress is the #1 CMS on the planet. If you need a marketing website, a WordPress-powered website is the best fit for you.
Feel free to reach out if you have additional questions on why we use WordPress to power the websites we build.