In this assignment, you will create an issue website using website-generating software. This task will provide you with an opportunity to learn about website-generating software. If you have previously created a site using a website builder, you may submit it, as the objective of this exercise is to demonstrate your familiarity with the technology.
Content Management Systems (CMS)
Most web sites in the real world are not hand coded, but use a Content Management System, or CMS. A CMS uses a database and a programing language to create the web pages. Sites like Amazon, Google, The NY Times, or financial institutions use proprietary CMSs. Most sites do not need that kind of performance or redundancy, and are built using open source software, usually PHP, Apache, and the database MySQL. While a CMS does not have to use a database, most do.
Open Source Solutions
WordPress, Drupal and Joomla are three popular open source CMS platforms. WordPress has become the most popular of these, with a 65% market share. It powers 45% of all websites. Another type of website builder is a CSS framework. These solutions are free, but require hosting.
Commercial Solutions
Website-generating software is typically free to try, but often require subscription fees. If the subscription fee is $10 a month, it is $120 per year, and $600 every five years. Many fees are higher. The subscription fee should be calculated based on the anticipated lifespan of your website.
The WordPress platform and CSS frameworksare free, but you need to secure hosting and a domain name, which typically costs from $16 per year if you use the $1 hosting plan recommended in the tools of the trade article. Adobe’s Express is also free, provided you have an Adobe subscription. Cargo is free for Parsons students (using the Cargo Student Code: 2905333d), but you will eventually transition out of student status. Wix and SquareSpace offer a 50% discount for the first year as a student, but they revert to regular pricing thereafter. If you intend to sell products on your website, Shopify, SquareSpace, and Wix offer commerce plans, but these plans typically cost over $25 per month or $1,500 over five years.
WordPress developed the Woo Commerce plugin, which is free. Please don’t confuse the free access to their software on WordPress.org with the commercial services offered by Woo Commerce plugin and WordPress.com.
Website-generating software does not provide the same level of control and customization as traditional coding languages. However, the templates and graphical user interfaces can make the process relatively straightforward.
I encourage exploration of the different website-generating software options. A manual ( source) for WordPress 6.5 will help get you started. Additional helpful guides and resources are available online for all of these options.