I know, I know—criticizing WordPress feels like walking into a room and telling everyone that their favorite song is overrated. But we need to have an honest conversation about the platform and whether it's really the best solution for your website, especially if you're among the majority who use WordPress to display fewer than ten content pages with rare or no updates.
The Problem of Overengineering Simplicity
WordPress started as a blogging platform and evolved into a content management system (CMS) used by millions of websites worldwide. Its flexibility and user-friendly interface are undeniably appealing. However, the problem arises when people use WordPress for small, static websites that don't require its vast array of features. These sites might have 5–10 pages, are rarely updated, and serve a simple purpose—yet they're powered by an infrastructure designed for much more complex use cases.
The result? Overengineering. When you use WordPress for something as simple as a small business website or a personal portfolio, you're employing a solution designed for much larger needs. You're maintaining a system that involves databases, frequent updates, plugins, and security measures—all for a static site that doesn't require this complexity. It's like using a Swiss Army knife to open a letter: yes, it works, but it's far from the most efficient tool.
Performance Issues and Security Risks
One of the main drawbacks of unnecessarily using WordPress is performance. Every page load in WordPress triggers numerous database queries, which can slow down your site, especially if it's not properly optimized. For a static site, this is entirely unnecessary and can lead to sluggish performance that affects user experience and search engine rankings.
Moreover, security is a growing concern. WordPress sites, especially those that aren't regularly updated, are prime targets for hackers. An outdated plugin or an unpatched vulnerability can make your website an easy entry point for malicious actors. With a static site, this risk can be avoided by using simpler, more secure alternatives.
Alternatives: Static Site Generators to the Rescue!
If you're running a small website that doesn't need dynamic content or frequent updates, there are more efficient alternatives to WordPress. Static Site Generators (SSGs) like Jekyll, Hugo, or 11ty allow you to create fast, secure websites that don't rely on databases or complex infrastructures. These tools generate simple HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files, which can be hosted almost anywhere with little to no maintenance. Since there are no backend processes to manage, they also reduce security risks and performance issues.
The Hidden Costs of WordPress Maintenance
Many choose WordPress because it's free, but "free" is a bit misleading. Maintaining a WordPress site involves regular updates, plugin management, backups, and security measures. If you're not tech-savvy, you'll likely need to hire someone to manage these aspects, turning your "free" website into a recurring cost center.
By switching to a simpler solution, you can reduce the need for ongoing maintenance and save costs, while still having a website that serves its purpose.
Final Thoughts: Simplicity Is Key
WordPress is a powerful tool, but it's not always the right one for the job. If you're managing a small, static website with little need for dynamic features, you should consider switching to a simpler, more efficient solution. Eventually, you'll save time, money, and headaches.
At the end of the day, it's not about hating WordPress—it's about using the right tool for the job. And sometimes, less is more. Do you agree?
A guest post by Simon Jenny (b65.ch)