WordPress is ideal for business and personal websites, as it is a full-featured software program that allows you to customize everything from how content is displayed to how visitors can interact with you. If you do not have any coding experience or experience managing a blog, working with a WordPress consulting company can make the process of starting a new site easy and painless. Not all consulting companies are created equally, however, so review each option carefully before making your final decision. These are just some of the things you need to look for in a consulting company.
Software Installation
Many blog owners use content management systems to organize their content. This is especially beneficial for people who post new content daily and need to organize several hundred pieces of content. Traditional installation of this software involves creating SQL databases and configuring the software packages by hand. If you do not have experience doing this, it can take you hours to figure out how to configure the software properly. Look for a consulting company that can handle the installation process for you or at least give you access to one-button installation tools that completely automate the process. This will save you a lot of time and frustration.
Experience
Experience is one of the most important considerations when choosing a WordPress consulting company. Although WordPress has only been on the market since 2003, there are thousands of people who have used the software to create full-featured websites. Choose a consulting company that has employees with experience installing and configuring WordPress, selecting WordPress themes and plugins, and managing websites powered by WordPress. Working with someone who has this expertise will make it easier to get your site up and running.
Project Variety
Since experience is so important, look for a WordPress consulting company that has completed a variety of projects. If every project a consultant completes is the same, you will not be able to tell if the consulting company has the skills needed to help you get your site up and running. Ask to see examples of past projects so that you can see if the consultants have a variety of skills. A varied portfolio should include personal and business blogs, e-commerce sites, and sites that have customized features. If a company is able to show you a variety of samples, there is a good chance the consultants on staff do not have a lot of experience with different types of sites.
Pricing
Although pricing is an important consideration for business owners, it should not be the most important consideration. In some cases, an extremely low price means that you will not get the support and assistance you need, making it difficult to succeed with your business or personal blog. Many consulting companies offer several different packages at different prices, making it possible to pick the package that has all the features you need at a price you can afford. When comparing prices, make sure you know exactly what is included so that you are not surprised by extra charges later on.
Services
Make sure you work with a consulting company that offers a variety of services. If you work with a company that only offers blog setup services, you will not have the support you need once your site is up and running. If the company only offers services for existing blog owners, you will not have the help you need to install your blog software and get the site set up according to your expectations. A good blog consulting company should offer services for new and existing blogs. Custom blog design, software installation, and blog hosting are just some of the services you should look for if you have not started your blog yet. If you have an existing blog, you may want to work with a consulting company that offers template customizations, software upgrades, blog hosting, platform migration, and monthly blog maintenance services.
Picking the right WordPress consulting company right from the beginning can help you eliminate some of the frustration associated with starting a blog. The right consultant can also save you time and money by offering professional support and advice throughout every stage of the blog setup process.
