Since its release in mid-2003, WordPress has become the most widely used content management system since it’s scalable, flexible, easy to use and more affordable than other website builders such as Square, WIX and Shopify.
In this article we’re going to explore 5 reasons why WordPress is the ideal solution for small business websites.
- WordPress is FREE
Not to be confused with WordPress.com which is a hosted platform, WordPress is a content management system or software that can download for free through their official website. At the time of this writing, it has over 16 million downloads.
Once downloaded you can installed it on a web hosting package, however most web hosting companies, such as SiteGround, now offers a Quick Install Tool that allows anyone to install it in a few clicks through the hosting dashboard.
If you’re not familiar with WordPress, not to worry; hiring a seasoned WordPress developer can ensure higher quality work, customization, implement innovative tools and internet marketing capabilities such as SEO & PPC; and lastly get you online faster so you don’t have to give up more of your personal time.
- Its User Friendly
Whether you’re technically-savvy or a newbie, WordPress is easy to use and figure out. From a secure dashboard, users can create pages, posts, forms and even control the design & layout. This is one of the main reasons why WordPress is so favorable across the globe.
- Beautify your site with WordPress Themes
If you’re looking to update the appearance of your website, WordPress themes are a combination of files such as images, code and stylesheets that can be installed to provide custom design and functionality.
Even though themes can be installed through the dashboard with a couple clicks for free, premium themes are recommended for small business websites as they can provide additional features and customization options.
Many include their own page builders which allow anyone to easily build stunning landing pages using a drag-and-drop interface. Premium themes can be purchased from websites such as ThemeForest.com for around $60 USD. Premium themes are usually fully responsive which means they look great on all major devices and if they don’t there’s a plugin for that.
- There’s a plugin for almost everything
A plugin is a piece of code which integrates into WordPress to extend existing functionality or add new features and installed without writing a single line of code.
Currently there are over 58,000 plugins available for download through the official WordPress directory and thousands more can be purchased through third-party websites.
Plugins can also be installed by visiting the plugin directory through the WordPress dashboard with just a few clicks.
There is a plugin for almost anything you can think of. Whether you’re looking to create custom forms, sell products online or create a member portal – it can be easily done through plugins.
- Sell Online with WooCommerce
If you’re looking to start an online store or create an online catalogue, WooCommerce is the perfect for small businesses and the leading ecommerce solution.
WooCommerce currently boasts over 28% market share of all websites using ecommerce, even beating ecommerce competitors such as Shopify and Squarespace.
Hosting companies now offer WordPress + WooCommerce through one-click installs; however it can be easily added through the plugin library.
Once installed, you can easily configure store parameters such as shipping, payment processors such as Paypal or Stripe and start adding products. If you need custom functionality for your store there is probably a plugin for that.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a small business or large corporation, WordPress is an ideal solution.
Today it’s used by big brands such as Disney, Bloomberg, Sony and celebrities such as Beyonce Knowles.
Even though getting a WordPress website off the ground is simple, hiring a WordPress developer can help make the right decisions that can impact your online presence and grow your business.
An expert WordPress developer can help you choose the right hosting company, best plugins, optimize site performance, integrate SEO and other digital marketing considerations that can boost your online presence and gain market share.
NexToronto is a web design & digital marketing company that helps businesses in York Region and surrounding areas. We specialize in WordPress development services and build highly engaging websites, integrated with SEO that help businesses grow.