An Introduction to WordPress Frameworks

• As mentioned above, some of these frameworks do cost money. Two examples of the most popular paid frameworks are Genesis and Thesis. Unfortunately, most of the feature-packed frameworks are not free. Some of them cost a one-time or recurring fee. In some cases you’ll have to pay for additional upgrades as well. This reinforces the need to conduct research based on the functionality you’re looking for and deciding which option is best for your business.
• As also mentioned above, working with frameworks has a bit of a learning curve. All frameworks are coded differently, and if it has a unique interface, it will take time to learn. After you allocate some time to learn the framework you picked, however, it will actually save a lot of time going forward.
• Nothing is perfect, and frameworks are no exception. They might force you to overwrite core files in WordPress, and you need to be aware of this when you’re looking for a framework to use. Most of the time, you’ll receive a warning from the framework if it’s replacing WordPress files. We highly recommend making regular WordPress backups just in case.

Overall, the pros definitely outweigh the cons for WordPress frameworks. While we were hesitant at first to use frameworks, we now love using them. After getting used to using the framework, it nearly cut our development process in half.  As you get started in WordPress, hopefully you’ll give frameworks a try. In our experience, they can definitely make things more efficient (and save a few headaches as well). We’ll be covering more on frameworks in the future, so stay tuned!

Have a question about WordPress frameworks? Ask away in the comments below!