Managing WordPress websites for your business is a crucial part of maintaining a strong online presence. However, the upkeep can be time-consuming and technical, which is why many businesses turn to professional WordPress maintenance plans.
These plans keep your WordPress sites running smoothly, securely, and efficiently. That being said, with so many maintenance service providers out there, how do you select the right maintenance plan for your business?
Here are a few tips to guide you through the process.
Assess Your WordPress Sites’ Specific Needs
Consider the size of your site, the complexity of its design, and the functionality it offers to visitors.
For instance, an e-commerce site with multiple plugins and daily transactions will have different maintenance needs than a simple blog. That’s because these sites tend to have between 1500 and 3500 URLs. Hence, these sites are bigger and require more maintenance work than your usual WordPress blog sites.
Consider how frequently you update content, the amount of traffic your site attracts, and how many WordPress websites you oversee. Once you’ve assessed your site’s specific requirements, you can start exploring maintenance services that meet those needs.
Some WordPress maintenance plans offer basic updates and security checks, while others provide more comprehensive services like performance optimization, regular backups, etc. Matching your site’s needs with the right maintenance plan is key to ensuring your WordPress sites operate seamlessly.
How much does a WordPress website maintenance plan cost?
According to Belov Digital Agency, the cost of WordPress website maintenance plans varies from $150 to $500 per month. These costs are for just one WordPress website. For more than one site, the costs will go up. The costs cover services like WordPress updates, regular maintenance, security updates, cloud backup, and so on.
Understand What’s Included in the WordPress Maintenance Plans
WordPress maintenance plans can vary significantly in terms of what they offer.
The very best WordPress website maintenance plans usually cover core updates, theme and plugin updates, security monitoring, and regular backups. Some of these plans go above and beyond by offering additional services like uptime monitoring, malware removal, SEO optimization, and even content management.
These extra services can be particularly valuable for businesses that lack in-house technical expertise or have multiple WordPress websites to manage.
How much does a WordPress website cost?
On average, the upfront cost for a WordPress website can be between $100 and $100,000. Sometimes, you might have to spend even more on your site, particularly if you’re using a lot of plugins. Maintenance costs for these WordPress websites can go up to $10,000 or more per year.
Evaluate the Cost of WordPress Maintenance Plans
Cost is always a significant factor when choosing a WordPress maintenance plan. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s important to remember that you often get what you pay for.
Cheaper maintenance plans might only cover the basics, leaving your site vulnerable to issues that could have been prevented with more comprehensive coverage.
When evaluating the cost, consider the value of the services provided. For example, if a maintenance plan offers daily backups and 24/7 support, it might be worth paying a bit more.
Additionally, some WordPress maintenance plans offer discounts if you manage multiple WordPress websites. Hence, be sure to inquire about any potential savings if you have more than one site to maintain.
How much do full-time WordPress developers cost in the US?
The average base salary of a WordPress developer in the US is something around $59,696. Breaking it down, these professionals make $33.10 an hour. Freelance developers might charge between $20 to $250 per hour. How much they are paid depends on the type of work they have to do. From WordPress security to ensuring regular WordPress updates, these freelancers can help you with them all.
Consider the Level of Support Offered
Every good WordPress maintenance plan must include reliable and, if possible, 24/7 support. This support is vital to address any WordPress site-related problem that may occur. Some providers offer different levels of support depending on the plan, with higher-tier plans offering faster response times and more personalized assistance.
In essence, choosing the right WordPress maintenance plan for your business, from the plethora of options available, is a decision that requires careful consideration. By assessing all these details, you can find a maintenance plan that keeps your WordPress websites running smoothly and securely. Investing in the right maintenance services protects your site and gives you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on growing your business.
