WordPress powers a huge share of the world's websites, including plenty of small business sites here in Brisbane. It is flexible and reliable, but it is not a set and forget system. Like a car, it needs regular servicing to keep running well.
What does WordPress maintenance involve?
Core updates. WordPress itself releases updates for security fixes and new features.
Plugin and theme updates. The add ons that power your forms, galleries and design need updating too, and they are often where security problems start.
Backups. A recent copy of your site, so it can be restored quickly if something goes wrong.
Security and uptime monitoring. Alerts if your site goes down or something suspicious happens.
Health checks. Broken links, your SSL certificate and the general condition of the site.
What happens if you skip it?
Most of the website problems I am asked to fix come back to the same thing: updates that were never done. Out of date plugins are one of the most common ways WordPress sites get hacked. Old software can also clash with newer versions of other plugins or your server, which leads to broken pages, contact forms that quietly stop sending, or a site that will not load at all.
Even when nothing breaks, a site that is never looked after tends to get slower over time. Slow sites frustrate visitors and can affect where you appear in Google.
Can I do it myself?
You can, and some business owners do. The catch is that updates occasionally cause conflicts, so you need a current backup and the know how to roll things back when they do. If you would rather spend that time on your business, a maintenance plan takes it off your plate.
How much does WordPress maintenance cost?
My plans start from $125 inc GST/month right up to $1,800 inc GST a year. You can compare the plans on my WordPress maintenance page.
Is your website due for a check-up?
If you are not sure when your site was last updated, or it is feeling slow and dated, get in touch. I am a Brisbane web designer based in Chermside West, and I can tell you honestly whether maintenance or a fresh website design is the better option for you.
