If you are new to SEO, then you are sure to have questions about what some of the jargon means. Here you will find a list of the most common terms you are likely to encounter. Do you want to optimize your website but have trouble communicating with the technical folks running it?
What is WordPress – WordPress is an Open Source blogging platform or application that is installed on your web host server. Currently, it is the most popular software used for self hosted blogs. It is free to use and most web hosts with cPanel access will have a one-click installation. WordPress functions as not only just a blog, it has a powerful database and acts as a full CMS (content management system). This makes it possible to build an entire website using this software.
One of the reasons that WordPress is so popular is because it is very easy to use. It also has thousands of plugins that can be installed to perform just about any function you could ever need to add to your site. These range from shopping carts, article directories and membership scripts to powerful SEO features, contact forms and automated social bookmarking.
There are literally thousands and thousands of plugins available. There are also thousands of video tutorials to teach you how to use WordPress which is also a really plus. Although it is really very easy to use, there is a small learning curve to it. If you want to improve the functionality through plugins, you might want to watch a few of the tutorials although all plugins can be installed with the click of a button because the installer is built into the dashboard in the admin area.
If you do not have a web host, you can get a free WordPress blog at www.wordpress.com. This might be a good place to start by testing out the software before setting up a paid hosting site for your business. Even if you have an existing website, you can add a WordPress blog to your website.
Another advantage of using WordPress is that it is completely customizable. You can install themes the same way you install the plugins. One click and you can change the look of your site or you can hire someone to design a custom theme for your site.
Personally, I don’t understand why anyone would want a website that is not powered by WordPress. The search engines love this platform and it makes it possible for a business owner to maintain their website themselves if they so choose. Even if you are paying someone to design your site for you, it is generally much less expensive to have a WordPress site designed than it is to have a static or other CMS site created. Then you are able to take over and make any small changes and updates to your site yourself.