Here at Magna Technology, WordPress is our go-to content management system (CMS), as it’s a versatile and user-friendly platform that allows individuals and web developers alike to build and manage websites. Some of the features we like best include its easy-to-use interface, customization and flexibility, mobile responsiveness, strong security features, and scalability. But, many clients wonder if there are limitations they need to be aware of. The good news is that WordPress is not limited. It can be used for pretty much anything, from ecommerce sites to membership sites. However, there are a few considerations, which we will touch on below.
Adding Too Many Plugins
Plugins are software additions that allow you to customize your website. They can do some pretty amazing things, such as allow forms on your website, optimize web content, and improve security. But, it’s important not to choose too many plugins, as it can slow down your site’s response time and hinder its overall performance. While there is no set number for how many plugins you can have, the golden rule is to have as many plugins as you need, no more and no less. On average, most sites have around 30 plugins.
Some Tasks Require Coding
While you can technically use WordPress without having a background in coding, it is helpful to have some basic knowledge. This is why it’s worth having a WordPress developer! However, if you want to do things on your own, we recommend having a basic understanding of HTML and CSS styling, as well as some knowledge of PHP. Coding is necessary when creating themes and plugins, customizing your website, and adding new functions or editing existing ones.
Updates are Frequent
It’s important to update WordPress (and its plugins) to keep it compatible with the latest browser and mobile devices. We recommend setting a schedule, such as weekly or monthly, to prevent update backlog. Having an updated site reduces security risks and keeps your site current with the latest features and fixes. Also, before each update, be sure to back up your entire site in case the update corrupts your website. This will save you from having to start from an earlier version.
SEO Requires a Dedicated Plan
While there are plugins for SEO—our favorite being Yoast SEO—there are limitations. Yoast only allows a certain subset of elements to be optimized, which means you can’t optimize all of your content. It’s also important to note that just becuase you have an SEO tool installed on your website does mean that your content is automatically optimized. You will need an SEO plan to accomplish your goals.
Wrapping Up
On the surface, WordPress is an easy, flexible, and user-friendly platform that most people can pick up relatively quickly. However, there are some limitations to keep in mind. Fortunately, Magna Technology can help with most of them. We monitor websites 24-hours a day, schedule regular backups, and ensure that your site is always up-to-date and secure. Our team also designs websites that exude trust and professionalism. To learn more about our web development and web management services, contact Magna Technology today.