If you are thinking of upgrading your website, you’ve probably heard a lot about WordPress. My husband, the web mechanic, specializes in WordPress websites, so I hear a lot about them.
They are touted as being beneficial because they are easier to use for people who haven’t been living with computers for 30+ years like I have, and sites built in WordPress are search engine optimization friendly.
What Exactly Is WordPress?
WordPress is a framework. Think of WordPress as the basis for every car made for the United States. The standard car has four wheels, two axels, a drive shaft, an engine, steering wheel, brakes, horn, etc.
When you get WordPress, which is a free, downloadable piece of software code, you get the basic structure. Your WordPress “car” has no design, no flare. It’s just a hunk of metal.
What is a WordPress Theme?
A WordPress theme is the design. Think of car models. Even though a Volkswagen and a Hummer have the same basic frame, they look totally different. A theme is what makes your WordPress website look different from my WordPress website.
A WordPress theme is a downloadable piece of software code that talks with (integrates) the WordPress basic code.
Themes can be free or you can pay for them. They are created by people outside the organization that built WordPress.
Once your website designer has the WordPress framework and theme, he or she can make changes to it. Think about choosing a car—you pick colors, sizes, add-ons, etc. Some car models have more choices of colors and add-ons than others. It works the same way with themes.
What is a Plug-In?
Think of a plug-in like a car add-on, like an upgraded stereo system or four-wheel drive. Plug-ins are little bits of code that integrate with WordPress and the WordPress theme to perform a specific function. A plug-in can be for many different things like a shopping cart, security, calendar, etc.
Plug-ins can be free or you may have to pay a nominal fee for them.
Hosting Service (Server)
WordPress websites live “in the cloud.” The physical location (the garage for your car) can be anywhere in the world. When you need to view or make changes to your site, you provide the key (your URL) and the website or administration panel appears, like a Zip car.
You do not need to keep your website in the WordPress garage. You want to find the server (garage) with the most security, lowest cost for the value you receive, and an attendant that is easy to work with and understand.
Choosing a Theme
Your web designer will probably pick a theme that he or she likes to work with. Here are some questions to ask your web person before you agree to work with them and their chosen theme:
- When was the last time it was updated? Is it current with the latest WordPress release?
Some themes were created and maintained for a while and then neglected. If themes don’t get their regular service maintenance they will eventually break, just like a car.
- How much will the theme cost you? Is it a one time or an annual fee? Do you have to pay to talk to the theme’s support team?
There are many low-cost and free themes out there that can do everything you want. You don’t need to pay for a Cadillac if all you need is a Smart Car.
- How flexible is the theme? Will it do everything you want? Has your web designer created what you need with the theme before? Can he or she show you an example?
Sometimes the latest model from an auto company takes a while to work out the kinks. Same with software and web designers.
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