Monthly fees for maintenance of WordPress Websites seem to be quite popular among web design companies, BUT are they worth it?
In the OLD days, which weren’t so long ago (we’re talking pre 2008), most websites were hand-coded via HTML. Most website owners didn’t know HTML, thus the need for a web developer to update photos and information. The alternative was building a backend that was database driven. For big companies with a large Internet budget, this wasn’t a problem, however for the mom and pop shop that needed to get online this would incur quite an expense.
GONE ARE THE DAYS OF MONTHLY MAINTENANCE FEES
The WordPress platform was originally built as a blogging tool. Anyone who wanted to talk about their passions, hobbies, political views etc. started using WordPress. Typically they could install it and start using it. Not always pretty but very functional.
Time passed and WordPress evolved and has become a content management system with a very intuitive user interface. Now businesses have an affordable way to enjoy the capability to update their own websites without knowing HTML.
WordPress’ dashboard alerts you to plugins that need to be updated when you are logged in. These alerts should never be dismissed. Updating plugins and the core of WordPress is key to ensuring your website cannot be hacked via security holes that these updates quite often address as well as glitches developers have worked out. Typically updating plugins are not a problem. AS THE WEBSITE OWNER, you can click on auto update and the whole process is taken care of in a few seconds.
When customization has been incorporated into a WordPress plugin, THEN you will need the assistance of your WordPress web developer or WordPress Consultant. It is best to use the WordPress web developer you used to build the site for these updates, as they are familiar with any plugin customization that has been performed.
WordPress updates should be performed monthly or more frequently as you log into your website.
Don’t be held hostage by a monthly maintenance agreement. Call ACA Web Consulting for a FREE assessment of updates that may be needed on your WordPress website and let me tutor you on how to perform those for yourself.
It’s YOUR website, be in charge!!!
