WordPress is an increasingly popular web publishing platform. Based on open-source PHP code and the MySQL database, WordPress has grown far beyond its humble beginnings as a blogging tool. With an enormous array of plug-ins and themes available, and more being added all the time, WordPress is fast becoming the default self-publishing tool.
Once up and running, a WordPress site makes publishing and editing online content a breeze. And while setting up a basic WordPress blog is a simple process, more advanced customisation — allowing much of the power of WordPress to be exploited — can still be tricky. It’s also a good idea to customise the theme — the look and feel — of a WordPress site to ensure it stands out from the rest.
I’ve been using WordPress, and tinkering with it, for a few years and have recently decided to make it my primary development platform (which isn’t to say that I’ve left ColdFusion behind completely… I’ll gladly discuss any CF work that you may have).
While it may still be primarily a blogging system, the vast array of plugins and themes now available; along with the ease with which it can be customised, make WordPress appropriate for a wide range of different projects (this site, for instance, is powered by WordPress).
Once up and running, keeping a WordPress site up-to-date is simplicity itself. The site content can be edited and updated by almost anyone who has ever used a Word Processor.
Setting up a basic WordPress site can be done at little or no cost, but many people want to ensure that their site is tailored specifically to their needs. I can produce custom themes and specific functionality (using plugins) to make your WordPress site distinct.
WordPress Themes
As mentioned, this site is powered by WordPress. For an example of some of the other custom themes I’ve produced, check out the following sites…
- Los Divulgadores. Spanish language site investigating Forteana and esoterica. Theme built to a supplied design.
- The Divulgers. English language version of the above site. Built to the same design.
- Hive Health. London-based healthcare communications agency. Theme built to a supplied design.
- CampbellReith. Leading international firm of consulting engineers.
- Valoro VGW. London-based reputation management consultancy. Theme built to a supplied design.
- Time to Change. UK segment of a pan-European initiative to help tackle climate change by encouraging the upgrade of old appliances.
- Joanna Pawlowska. Portfolio, gallery site and blog from the London-based artist. Theme built to a supplied design.
- my2mommies. The destination site for lesbian mommies.
- BozAround. The personal blog of travel writer Vanessa Boz.
- Creeping Toad. Author, artist and educator Gordon MacLellan. Theme built to fit an existing design.
- Typecast Creative. A portfolio site and blog run by the London-based graphic design agency. Theme built to fit an existing design.
- Granular Investments. Small brochure site for Investment Management firm.
- Sophia Bennett. A showcase for the work of the successful novelist, and a news source for fans.
- Revitalise. A simple brochure site for an Holistic Massage Therapist based in South Dublin.
- The Quiet Road. Back to WordPress basics. A personal weblog theme.
- Fitzsimons Crafts. Brochure site for a producer of handmade crafts and accessories. Includes slideshow and image galleries.