What is WordPress
WordPress (WP, WordPress.org) is a free and open-source content management system (CMS) written in PHP [4] and paired with a MySQL or MariaDB database with supported HTTPS. Features include a plugin architecture and a template system, referred to within the platform as Themes. WordPress was initially created as a blog-publishing system but has evolved to support other web content types including more traditional mailing lists and forums, media galleries, membership sites, learning management systems (LMS), and online stores. One of the most popular content management system solutions, WordPress is used by 43% of all websites on the internet today. In Tanzania, WordPress is used by at least 6000 websites builtwith.
Benefits of using WordPress
The platform is an established and well-respected platform that has been around since 2003, and there is a good reason. We will be sharing some benefits which may lead you to consider switching your website to WordPress if you already have one or building your first website on the platform.
Management
A WordPress website can be managed from any computer as the platform is web-based. As long as you have an internet connection you can update your website whether you are in Dar Es Salaam or by the beach in Zanzibar, development continues.
Minimal Coding
Like most people when you think about web development the first thing that comes to mind is lines of code. With WordPress you can get away without ever having to write a line of code by using the CMS and builders just as Elementor.
Google Friendly
When you build a website, you want it to be found by your target audience otherwise its of no use to you. The code the platform uses makes it easy for search engines such as Google & Bing to read and index your website. SEO plugins such as Yoast also make it possible to conduct precise search engine optimization.
Unlimited Functionality
Whether you want the ability to sell your products and services online or have your customers book appointments with you. There is a plugin that can help you achieve your needs.
Performance
WordPress will allow you to have hundreds of pages and blog posts without compromising the performance of the website. This makes scaling your platform a friendly experience.
Multi User Platform
With WordPress you can have multiple users of with different roles from Administrators, Contributors and Subscribers (Customers).
Design
WordPress is a design-friendly platform meaning there is little to no limitation to what you can design and implement. If you have seen it on the internet before 99% chance it can be done on WordPress.
Types of WordPress Sites
WordPress was initially designed as a blogging tool now; you can use WordPress to build a variety of website. You will require a hosting package, domain name, branding, content and you are good to go. WordPress gives you the power to implement practically any idea from your imagination, especially when you realise the power of plugins. You will now learn about the types of websites you can build in Tanzania today using WordPress.
A Blog
From a simple blogging platform, fast forward nearly 20 years the platform is now a powerful CMS. The platform is still very popular amongst bloggers and the most used platform globally for this purpose. Being in Tanzania a nation blessed with so much culture, wildlife, beautiful beaches, and people. You might be inspired to start sharing Tanzania with the world with your WordPress blog.
eCommerce Website
WordPress is one of the worlds most used platforms for buying and selling online, by installing a plugin called WooCommerce you give your site the ability to provide your users a product catalogue online, add those products to a virtual shopping cart and pay securely using credit/debt card or mobile money if you are in a country that supports this payment method in Tanzania, we would recommend Pesapal. There is no better time than now to innovate and bring your business online with global eCommerce skyrocketing you can take this opportunity to sell your products from Tanzania to the world using WordPress & WooCommerce.
Business Website
WordPress allows you to build professional-looking business website, you should know the purpose you need the website for and what goals you are trying to achieve as this will allow developing a website that is fit for your purpose. Your target market must also instantly recognize what your business is about as soon as they land on your website. A simple call to action for example “Request A Quote” are a good way to engage users and capture leads using the website.
Portfolio Website
Perhaps you are a talented photographer or videographer and you want a website to showcase your work to fans and potential clients, WordPress gives you the ability to do so using beautiful galleries and sliders. This is definitely the best way to have your work noticed and taken seriously apart from using social media platforms such as Instagram, it really adds to your professionality. It’s a good way to really tell people about yourself and what you do.
To Conclude
Now that you have a better understanding of what WordPress is and some ideas of how you can use it and implement it to scale your business you should also know the platform is not limited to what we have covered in this article it has vast functionality and unlimited opportunity for growth. Should you have an idea which you would like to implement feel free to request a quote our team of experts would be happy to work with you.
WordPress Sites in Tanzania
We wanted to share with you 4 examples of WordPress sites currently live in Tanzania today by some big recognizable brands, personalities, organizations, and companies.
CRDB Bank
CRDB Bank Plc is the largest, wholly-owned private universal bank in Tanzania. The bank uses the platform for its customer-facing website crdbbank.co.tz
Millard Ayo
Millard Ayo is an award-winning TV/Radio Personality and Journalist from Tanzania who covers East Africa and international stories. Millard Ayo’s news feed website millardayo.com is built on the WordPress platform.
The Open University of Tanzania
The Open University of Tanzania is a distance learning public university in Tanzania. The university makes good use of WordPress in Tanzania to engage students across the country see their website on out.ac.tz
Public Service Social Security Fund
The Public Service Social Security Fund is a social security scheme established by Public Service Social Security Act of 2018. PSSSF is developed on the WordPress platform psssf.go.tz
What do you need to get started?
A domain name
Hosting
Content