What level of WordPress expertise do I need for basic business website management versus complex e-commerce?
Basic business sites need someone comfortable with content management, plugin installation, and minor customizations - typically intermediate level. E-commerce requires advanced skills including WooCommerce expertise, payment gateway integration, security hardening, and performance optimization. Complex stores often need custom development work that requires expert-level knowledge.
How can I tell if a WordPress developer actually knows what they're doing versus just claiming expertise?
Ask them to explain their troubleshooting process for common issues like plugin conflicts or slow loading times. Real experts will mention staging environments, backup procedures, and systematic approaches. Check their portfolio for custom work, not just theme installations. Have them explain the difference between WordPress.com and .org, and ask about their experience with child themes and security practices.
Can WordPress handle enterprise-level functionality or is it just for small business websites?
WordPress powers major sites like The New York Times, Sony Music, and Microsoft News. With proper development, it handles enterprise needs including multi-site networks, advanced user management, API integrations, and high-traffic loads. However, it requires expert-level implementation for enterprise use - it's not just about installing plugins. The platform's flexibility is both its strength and potential weakness if not properly architected.
How well does WordPress integrate with our existing CRM, email marketing, and analytics tools?
WordPress integrates excellently with most business tools through plugins and APIs. Popular integrations include Salesforce, HubSpot, Mailchimp, Google Analytics, and hundreds of other platforms. Many integrations work through Zapier for tools without direct plugins. The key is having someone who understands how to implement these integrations properly without creating performance or security issues.
How long should I expect a WordPress website project to take from start to finish?
Simple business sites typically take 2-4 weeks including content migration and customization. Custom e-commerce stores usually require 6-12 weeks depending on complexity. Large migrations or custom development can take 3-6 months. Timeline depends heavily on content preparation, revision rounds, and scope changes. Experienced developers will provide detailed project timelines upfront.
What ongoing maintenance will my WordPress site need after it's built?
WordPress requires regular updates for core software, themes, and plugins - typically monthly. You'll also need ongoing backups, security monitoring, and performance optimization. Expect 2-5 hours monthly for basic maintenance, more for complex sites. Many businesses hire developers for monthly maintenance retainers rather than trying to handle updates internally, as improper updates can break functionality.