WordPress is a web based application used to publish content on the internet.
It allows a user to set up a feature rich website without having to learn any programming.
I've helped some small organisations take control of their website by using WordPress.
By using WordPress:
- They do not have to rely on external volunteers or agencies.
- They do not require in-house IT expertise to maintain the site.
- They do not need a large budget (the WordPress software is open source or free to use).
You can create simple websites (these two took me a few hours to set up)
Gravestones Installation Notes
Ariel Contact Manager
WordPress can be extended to create sophisticated websites: e.g. Wall Street Journal magazine
WordPress has the following advantages:
- It is web based. You only need a web browser can maintain a WordPress based website.
- Some 200 million websites are based on WordPress. There are many forums where you can ask for advice. You can purchase books on how to manage WordPress.
- Basic WordPress is designed to be used by non technical users who just want to publish content.
- It is easy to upload content into WordPress (text, photographs, video).
- WordPress has built in templates or themes which control the appearance of the website (colour scheme, layout etc.). The operator just selects which theme they would like which then changes the appearance of the website.
- You can add extra functionality using plug in modules. Many of these modules are free. This extra functionality ranges from a simple contact form to e-commerce.
- WordPress supports users with special needs. For example it allows text to be resized, has text based menus etc.