WordPress is a content management system, a CMS, which can be used to get a basic website up very fast. With a CMS such as it or Joomla you get an administration panel which you can log into to make content updates. Typically your website designer or developer is responsible for the initial installation and configuration which includes selecting, installing and customizing a theme. Your WordPress website designer or agency should also be adequately familiar with the framework so that he/she/they can customize the theme as necessary. They will also be familiar with great extensions (aka plugins) to expand your website's functionality. In some cases the designer will create a theme from scratch.
Joomla and WordPress
Historically there are some notable differences between Joomla and WordPress. Joomla was built as a true CMS from the onset whereas WordPress was built as a blogging application which morphed into a full-fledged CMS. WordPress has a reputation for being easier for the administrator than Joomla - but each has its place.
There are many content management systems available and up until a few years ago Joomla had the market share. New Joomla installations have taken a dip. Drupal is another familiar name in the CMS world but it has a reputation for being targeted for a technical audience. Each of the popular content management system has pluses and minuses, just as developing your own has such benefits.
WordPress Themes
A theme is a template structure that defines a website's look and feel. Most contemporary WordPress themes are fully responsive, some based on the Bootstrap framework and grid system. Some of the variances in themes include:
- Main navigation menu look and feel - horizontal vs vertical, location, how it displays on mobile vs desktop computers, how it is activated.
- Banner options including height/width, set up like 3-4 horizontal spotlight (this website), a single panoramic image, a slideshow, or a combination.
- Columns - with or without left and right sidebars - as an example I enabled the right sidebar on this page.
- Lower spotlight.
- Lower sitemap just above footer - can include various functions such as list of articles, popular pages, contact information, contact form, a map, etc.
- Footer with copyright, top panel, etc.
- Page load speed - and this is a big deal. Not all themes and extensions are built equal - some have a lot of baggage that will turn away visitors.
Demo WordPress Website Designs
All the websites on this page are based upon a half dozen different themes. With any website I build I provide administration FAQ documentation and training as needed. In addition to being a WordPress specialist (and historically Joomla) I do custom PHP/MySQL web development. If you're a contractor, an automotive shop owner or any of a thousand other business owners that need a good website and personable support give me a call at 303-926-0167 or fill out my contact form. Yours does not have to be a local to Colorado business.
Some of the local communities I do business for include Brighton, Erie, Niwot, Louisville, Lafayette, Denver and Longmont.
