WordPress reigns supreme as the most popular content management system (CMS) in the world. Consider these statistics:
Each day sees an average of 500 new websites built using WordPress
WordPress powers almost 15% of the world’s top websites
More than 22,000 plug-ins are available for WordPress
But while WordPress has an impressive reach, the CMS also has significant vulnerabilities. According to the technology news website ZDNet, “Attempts to hack into WordPress sites are like a constant hum in the background of all internet traffic, going on at any given time.” Yes, peaks and valleys in hacking happen, but WordPress’ massive scale makes the platform a perpetual target.
If you use WordPress, you need expert maintenance to safeguard your site. At a minimum, you need a maintenance plan with features like daily backups, 24/7 security monitoring, and managed site updates. Ecommerce sites or larger enterprises may need additional services. Read on to learn four qualities to look for in your WordPress maintenance partner.
#1: All Work and Support Handled by Experts
WordPress maintenance packaging and pricing can vary. It pays to shop around and make sure that you are getting good value for your money. If you find a bargain-basement provider, you’re likely going to get less value than you would by spending a bit more.
Why? Some WordPress maintenance organizations sign up customers and farm work out to the lowest bidder. This scenario can result in less experienced people working on your site. Also, low-cost providers may cut corners–and leave your site vulnerable.
When selecting a WordPress maintenance partner, look for a firm that has an expert in-house team. Typically, you’ll want to engage service providers with US-based professionals to ensure expert skill and timely availability.
#2: Multiple Plans and Value for Price
Websites have different maintenance needs depending on their scale. For example, a basic blog-centric site is more straightforward than an eCommerce site. And Enterprise sites often have the most complicated maintenance needs.
Your WordPress Maintenance provider should be able to support organizations of every scale. That way, they can assist you over the long term as your website requirements expand. Even if you have simple needs now, you can feel confident knowing that your provider has in-depth expertise with the most sophisticated WordPress sites.
Also, make sure that you are getting a good value for your monthly maintenance spend. Some companies overcharge for WordPress maintenance. Or they may offer a one-size-fits-all plan that is too much for smaller businesses with straightforward websites.
#3: Enterprise Options for Large-Scale Companies
As organizations grow, their maintenance needs typically grow as well. In addition to essential updates and security monitoring, small businesses or eCommerce sites may need uptime monitoring and speed optimization. Also, sites like these may need some focused developer time each month.
But larger enterprises have all these needs–and more. Enterprises may need expert planning and technical guidance to define a long-term site vision. And they’ll need dedicated developers who can evolve their sites as needed. Moreover, enterprises may also need cloud hosting and routine code review. Since enterprises vary, quality WordPress providers customize pricing and plans for each organization’s precise requirements.
#4: Deep Development Expertise
The best WordPress providers offer more than outsourced maintenance. They have robust application development experience and can create or update applications for clients.
Skilled developers excel at talking with clients to understand requirements and bringing their website visions to life. Also, they have experience with relevant languages and web frameworks, and integrations. They can build everything from custom blogging sites and eCommerce storefronts to learning management systems and more.
When you engage with a company that offers both WordPress maintenance and development, you can trust that your site is in good hands. You can receive expert consultation on your long-term vision and understand how to realize it. And you can benefit from a trusted technology partner beside you every step of the way.
Choosing the Right WordPress Maintenance Service Partner
No doubt about it: Regular maintenance is crucial for every WordPress site. Even if you have the web savvy to set up your website, you need regular upkeep to protect it from risks.
Think your site is too small to fall victim to cybercriminals? Think again. One study found that half of very small businesses reported a financial loss caused by hacking. And one in eight said that the loss totaled $5,000 or more. Larger organizations with more complex websites are likewise vulnerable.
When choosing a web partner, look for one that handles work in-house and offers a range of packages and prices. Companies that serve enterprises with experienced developers have strong, up-to-date WordPress knowledge. No matter the scale of your business or the size of your task, these experts can handle it all.
Ready to get started with WordPress maintenance? Review our risk-free service packages or contact us to discuss your unique needs. We’re here to help you keep your website operating effectively and take your business to the next level.
