Is WordPress Still the Best Tool for the Job?

WordPress has been a cornerstone of my web development journey for decades. From its early days to its dominance in the website-building world, it’s been my trusted companion. But lately, something feels different—off. And it’s led me to question whether WordPress is still the best tool for the job.

The Golden Years

There was a time when WordPress was a game-changer. It allowed developers and non-developers alike to quickly build functional, beautiful websites. Its plugin ecosystem was innovative, enabling users to extend functionality with just a few clicks. It wasn’t just a CMS; it was a movement.

I could have a site up and running in minutes, no problem. Whatever the need—e-commerce, blogging, or a full-fledged business website—WordPress had a plugin for it. But like all things, what once felt empowering now feels cumbersome.

The Cracks Begin to Show

Today, WordPress feels… bloated. The reliance on plugins has grown out of control. Simple features often require third-party add-ons, many of which come with a price: your data. It’s no longer about just building websites; it’s about feeding the ecosystem.

And the security risks? They’re always looming. Being one of the most popular website platforms also makes WordPress a prime target for hackers. The constant updates, patches, and plugin maintenance have turned what was once a joy into a chore.

The Overkill Factor

For larger, dynamic projects, WordPress still shines. But for smaller, simpler sites? It’s like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. I’ve often found myself questioning whether I really need WordPress for projects like club pages or basic information-sharing sites.

Even using popular tools like Divi or Elementor can feel excessive—powerful, yes, but almost too much for the task at hand. Add in the burden of maintaining these systems to avoid hacks, and it’s clear something has to change.

Enter Hugo

While working on an automation project, I stumbled across Hugo, a static site generator (SSG). At first, it seemed unrelated to what I needed, but the more I explored, the more I realized it might be the answer I’ve been searching for. Its simplicity, speed, and no-bloat philosophy were refreshing.

Tomorrow, I’m diving in. I’ll spend the day tinkering with Hugo and see if it lives up to my expectations. Can it really replace WordPress for smaller projects? Is it as good as it seems?

Stay tuned as I share my first impressions.