Both WordPress and Joomla can be used to create amazing websites. Both are content management systems. Both can be expanded using plugins, which can easily be found on the Internet reaching to the far corners of the universe (maybe a slightexaggeration). Both can use themes or templates to change the look of the site. Both can be installed on your own server, so there are no specific hosts and subscriptions to deal with. Even the cost of ownership is similar. Both are free – WordPress under GPLv2 License and Joomla under the GNU Public License. Both have an active community that helps design, build, and support their favorite systems.
WordPress
- Open Source – The open source aspect of WordPress is what makes it a go to many begginer and advanced web developers. For the uninitiated, open source basically means you can download the source code for the CMS software, and modify it to meet your specific needs. This also means that the software itself doesn’t cost a dime.
- Easy Setup – This used to be a major marketing message attached to the platform, but the ease of setup is so commonplace that they’ve removed these advertisements from their marketing collateral. WordPress can be setup in as little as five minutes. Check out this course that shows you how to install and set up WordPress.
- Customization – There are hundreds upon hundreds of free themes – either through the WordPress site or through a third-party provider – available for WordPress users. This allows even the most inexperienced users to customizae their sites to meet their personal or business needs. Beyond themes there are thousands and thousands of plugins to choose from to enhance your site’s content.
Joomla
Pros
- Easy Setup – Much like WordPress, Joomla can be setup and deployed in a matter of minutes.
- Powerful Extensions – Joomla offers users a wide range of plugins to help enhance site content. This includes everything from plugins to site modules that are all open source in nature.
- Extensive User Permissions – If you’re running a site where a wide range of users access content, it’s important to have a way to setup dynamic user permissions. Joomla allows for up to nine different types of user permissions.
Whichever CMS you decide to use, you are going to need to spend a bit of time learning the ins and outs of the system, especially if you’re going to attempt developing it yourself. Yes, WordPress is a little more intuitive than Joomla, but the “complexity” of Joomla allows it to be a much more versatile system.
The fact is it comes down to personal preference. It’s a subjective decision and this is the reason why the WordPress v Joomla debate will continue. Decide which system suits your purpose and go for it.
