If the internet is a country, websites are its cities. Initially, programming a website was equivalent to brain surgery. Today, content management systems have made the programming and management of such sights relatively easy. An example of this is WordPress, which is famous for powering around 41% of the modern content on the internet.
So, what’s the story? How did WordPress go on to dominate the production of the internet in such a powerful way? Designing a website is now done in 2 clicks, but this sure didn’t happen overnight. Here’s how WordPress gave birth to almost half of the internet.
What is WordPress
WordPress is a content management system. This means that it eliminates the need for advanced coding knowledge to build a website. Instead, all a user needs to pick is a domain and a hosting system.
WordPress has a web template system. Users can fill in the details they want in a template, and it automatically creates a webpage. They also have the option of themes. Themes can be changed even after launching the website, and it is a must for each website to have at least one composition. Themes alter the look of the website and are user-customizable.
Websites like https://omninoggin.com/ provide jobs for WordPress developers.
How did it come to life?
At the time of the development of WordPress, an existing software by the name of b2/cafelog had been discontinued by its developers. The core idea of WordPress was generated by two users of b2/cafelog, Matt Mullenweg and Mike Little.
A competing program had its terms of licensing changed which led to many of its users migrating to WordPress. This created a boost in the number of users.
History of development
The first version of WordPress came out in 2003. It was meant to follow the pattern of b2/cafelog but with significant improvements. This version immediately blew up amongst previous users of the b2/cafelog.
The second version of the program launched with plugin architecture. At the time, Movable Type was the hype in th blogging industry. However, they lost their glamour when the company included significant changes.
When the competitors changed their terms of licensing, most of its users also shifted to using WordPress. This resulted in a significant boost in it’s users. The newer version was safer and easier to use.
The 1.5 version came up with more developments like Pages, a comment system, a new theme and much more. Matt Mullenweg, the founder, announced the update and said the theme is programmed to match user preference instead of demanding the users to adapt to it.
Version 2.0
The 2.0 version came with a whole renovation of the initial design. A new admin dashboard was added. New coding languages like Javascript were added and users didn’t need to reload to see every change they made to his page. This version came with an anti-spam plugin too.
The company trademarked the WordPress logo in early-mid 2006.
In 2008, WordPress collaborated with a web design company called Happycog to design an admin interface. This design was based on a survey conducted to test the usability of this interface.
Version 3.0
WordPress came this time with even more improvements. This development came with custom post types and the option to customize backgrounds and headers.
SInce this update came in 2010, it was also the start of Twenty Ten, a project which aimed to launch a new default theme every year.
Around 2011, new plugins made their way into WordPress. These plugins allowed users to make online stores on WordPress. This diversified the range of functions WordPress can perform thus increasing its user base.
The version released in 2012 introduced theme previews and customizing themes and previews. This also allowed creating image galleries in the websites.
The next version allowed websites to update minor updates automatically. This update wasn’t well-liked amongst users and seeked to reverse the update.
The 3.8 version introduced the MP6, a new admin interface. This interface was highly interactive compared to previous versions.
WordPress 3.9 improved the post editor. Users could now edit images and previews were available within the editor. Added features included audio playlists and many more.
Version 4.0
In 2014, number of foreign language downloads surpassed the number of English downloads for WordPress. The subsequent versions related to emoji support and further enhanced existing features.
Further updates after 4.5. With each release, notable features were included. The final release enabled WordPress to support HTTP.
4.8 and 4.9 brought GIF support and and allowed photos, videos and audio files to be pasted in the website.
Till 5.0, the Gutenberg project was launched. That was a new editing feature. Continous improvements have been made in that department but the optimal experience is still yet to be achieved.
Wordcamp and user development
WordPress has always had a loyal user base. They provide constructive criticism and support which has helped WordPress develop in a way users preferred.
An annual Wordcamp event is held with everything related to WordPress. Users interact with developers and discuss further developments on the program. This camp is held in various locations worldwide, the first of which in San Francisco.
This camp has allowed a lot of progress into the program and encouraged use of the program. Over 1000 camps have been held since 2006 till date.
What’s next?
WordPress has evolved in dramatic ways over time. It is flexible to new technological advancements in medias. It is safe to assume that this program will continue to house more functions and even get close to all in one website designing program.
WordPress has been subject to constant criticism and support from its loyal user base and this has allowed it to grow with time. WordPress has a great future looking back at its growth from it’s first days. It’s user-friendly programming is one of the main factors of its growth. If this continues, WordPress will grow into a monopoly in the internet.
