What is WordPress and how to start using it: A beginner’s guide
What is WordPress and how to start using it
WordPress is a leading open-source content management system (CMS) that empowers users to create and manage websites without extensive coding knowledge. Initially launched in 2003 as a blogging platform, it has evolved into a versatile tool supporting various website types, including blogs, portfolios, business sites, and eCommerce stores. Its user-friendly interface and extensive customization options have contributed to its widespread adoption, powering approximately 43.4% of all websites globally.
WordPress.org vs. WordPress.com
WordPress is available in two distinct platforms:
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WordPress.org: This self-hosted version requires users to obtain their own web hosting and domain name. The software is free to download, offering complete control over website content and design through a vast selection of themes and plugins.
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WordPress.com: A hosted solution that manages the technical aspects of website creation. It offers a free basic plan with limitations, such as displaying ads and restricted theme and plugin access. Premium plans are available to unlock additional features.
Themes and Plugins
A significant advantage of WordPress is its extensive library of themes and plugins:
Themes: These pre-designed templates allow users to customize the appearance of their websites without coding. The official directory offers over 11,000 free themes catering to various needs, from blogs to online stores.
Plugins: Plugins extend the functionality of WordPress sites, enabling features like SEO optimization, eCommerce capabilities, and enhanced security. The WordPress Plugin Directory contains thousands of free plugins, with additional premium options available from third-party developers.
Why Choose WordPress?
WordPress offers several benefits that make it an ideal choice for website development:
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User-Friendly Interface: Its intuitive dashboard allows users to manage content effortlessly, making it accessible even for beginners.
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Customization: With a vast array of themes and plugins, users can tailor their websites to meet specific requirements and branding guidelines.
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Scalability: WordPress can handle various website sizes, from small blogs to large eCommerce sites, making it suitable for businesses of all scales.
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SEO-Friendly: The platform is designed with search engine optimization in mind, helping websites rank higher in search results.
Getting Started with WordPress
To create a WordPress website, follow these steps:
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Choose a Domain Name and Hosting Provider: Select a unique domain name and a reliable hosting service that supports WordPress installations.
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Install WordPress: Many hosting providers offer one-click WordPress installations, simplifying the setup process.
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Select a Theme: Choose a theme that aligns with your website's purpose and customize it to reflect your brand identity.
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Install Plugins: Add plugins to enhance functionality, such as contact forms, SEO tools, and security features.
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Create Content: Develop engaging and relevant content for your audience, organizing it into pages and posts as appropriate.
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Launch Your Site: After thorough testing, make your website live for the public.
Kulmi Digital's Web Development Packages
At Kulmi Digital, we offer comprehensive WordPress website development packages tailored to meet diverse business needs:
Main Features | Silver ($650) | Gold ($1,250) | Platinum ($2,500) |
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Go-Live Time | 1-2 Weeks | 2-3 Weeks | 3-6 Weeks |
WordPress Version | Latest | Latest | Latest |
Design | Theme-Based | Custom Design per Requirements and Brand Guidelines | Custom Design Planned by Experts Based on Client Requirements |
Design Process | - Client suggests reference URLs- Our team provides 2-4 theme options for approval- Approved theme implemented with suggested changes | - Client completes briefing form and provides brand design ideas- After research, our team develops 1 custom homepage design- Upon approval, the rest of the required homepage design is developed | - Client completes briefing form and provides brand design ideas- After research, our team develops 2 custom homepage designs- Upon approval, the rest of the required homepage design is developed |
Design Revisions | 1 Maximum | 2 Maximum | 3 Maximum |
Mobile Responsive | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Megamenu System | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Banner Slider (Homepage) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Extra Website Pages | Up to 5 | Up to 15 | Up to 30 |
Blog (CMS) | Based on Purchased Theme | Custom Design Matching Homepage Design | Custom Design Matching Homepage Design |
Caching | On Demand | On Demand | Free |
Legal Pages | Privacy Policy | Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions, Return and Refund Policy (Ecom) |
Hosting | Client Pays | Client Pays | Yes, Free (6 months included) |
Content Upload | Yes, Client to Supply Content | Yes, Client to Supply Content | Yes, Client to Supply Content |
SEO | Search Engine Friendly URLs, Google Sitemap, Meta Tag Management, Canonical Tag Settings, Google Rich Snippet Markup | Search Engine Friendly URLs, Google Sitemap, Meta Tag Management, Canonical Tag Settings, Google Rich Snippet Markup | Search Engine Friendly URLs, Google Sitemap, Meta Tag Management, Canonical Tag Settings, Google Rich Snippet Markup |
Google Analytics & Tag Manager Integration | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Lead Capture Forms | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Newsletter Setup | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Social Media Sharing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Cross-Browser Compatibility | IE 11+, Edge, Chrome, Firefox, Safari | IE 11+, Edge, Chrome, Firefox, Safari | IE 11+, Edge, Chrome, Firefox, Safari |
Device Optimization |
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Kulmi Digital website packages
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