WordPress began in 2001 as a simple concept to create software that was both simple to use and provided features that users would enjoy. Officially released in May of 2003, this blogging software quickly rose as one of the most popular blogging formats for users. Over the years, WordPress has evolved from a basic software platform to an elaborate and fully functional cheap host. By August 2010, the WordPress software had been downloaded over 12.5 million times by users looking for blogging software.
WordPress is often used as a form of CMS, or, Content Management System. This is most often used by larger companies to create content that will be viewed by customers or clients. A CMS differs from a blog in that it is often is more professional in appearance and serves content that is relevant to the services offered by the company. Posts are often referred to as articles, and may be updated on a regular basis. Additional content pages are also managed through the WordPress software to enable clients to create a uniform and professional look for their website content.
WordPress comes in many different forms, thanks to the plug-in design and the large amount of themes available. During its early origins in 2003, WordPress was available as a very basic blogging software package. Its updated release in 2004 included the ability to use plug-ins, marking the beginning of plug-in support for WordPress.
Changes to WordPress in 2005 brought new templates as well as major improvements to the overall system. This included changes to the uploading system to give users faster uploads for pictures and files. Better administrative tools and rich editing were also included in the 2005 updates. These changes were implemented through several releases during 2005. During 2007, the WordPress CMS underwent a number of improvements that carried over into 2008. The 2008 updates included the ability to track changes to any post or article, giving users greater control over their content. In 2009 and 2010, WordPress was given many updates and changes to improve security and speed.
Themes have been a large part of the WordPress experience for both casual blogging and those needing content management. These themes are easily customizable to make each page have the same appearance or to create wildly themed sites. Themes may be user created, or templates may be chosen from a number of WordPress template sites.
In addition to the frequent updates and releases for WordPress software, the company also offers one of the best web host options to customers. The WordPress.com website offers the use of the powerful blogging software without the need to install it on a personal website. This can help any blogger or company seeking a cheap host to find high quality software and a large number of features without having to compromise.
Upcoming WordPress releases for 2011 will include new features that will focus on community satisfaction. In addition to this new focus, the minimum requirements for MySQL and PHP will be increased to reflect the new changes.
