WordPress

Definition

WordPress is a popular open-source content management system (CMS) that allows users to create and manage websites without needing advanced technical skills. Launched in 2003 as a blogging tool, it has since evolved into a flexible platform used for blogs, corporate websites, e-commerce stores, portfolios, and more.

It is built on PHP and MySQL and provides an intuitive interface for content editing, supported by themes for design and plugins for extended functionality. WordPress powers more than 40 percent of websites globally, making it the most widely adopted CMS.

Advanced

At an advanced level, WordPress supports custom post types, taxonomies, REST API integration, and multisite capabilities. Developers can create bespoke themes and plugins to tailor functionality, while businesses can integrate third-party services for SEO, analytics, or e-commerce.

The WordPress ecosystem includes WordPress.org (self-hosted version with full customisation) and WordPress.com (a hosted service with managed infrastructure). Advanced setups may use headless WordPress with APIs to deliver content across web, mobile, and connected devices.

Why it matters

• Provides a cost-effective and scalable solution for website management.
• Offers flexibility with thousands of themes and plugins.
• Supports SEO optimisation and responsive design.
• Enables businesses to build anything from simple blogs to enterprise websites.

Use cases

• Building company websites and blogs.
• Running e-commerce stores with WooCommerce.
• Creating membership sites or learning management systems.
• Launching marketing campaigns with landing pages and integrations.

Metrics

• Website traffic growth from WordPress SEO tools.
• Plugin and theme adoption rates.
• Site performance benchmarks, such as load speed and uptime.
• Security monitoring for vulnerabilities in plugins and core updates.

Issues

• Outdated plugins or themes may expose security risks.
• Performance challenges with heavy customisation or large databases.
• Requires regular updates and maintenance for stability.
• It can become bloated without proper optimisation.

Example

A small retailer launches an e-commerce site using WordPress and WooCommerce. By installing SEO plugins, customising a theme, and integrating payment gateways, the retailer builds a professional online store at a fraction of the cost of custom development. Sales increase by 30 percent in the first year thanks to an easy-to-manage platform.