The WordPress Controversy: Is Composable Architecture The Way Forward?

The recent tensions between WordPress and WP Engine have left many in the web development community questioning traditional website management methods.

For those out of the loop, the dispute between Automattic and WP Engine (its largest plugin) has elevated over recent weeks. Both companies have issued Cease and Desist orders to each other, leading WP Engine to remove the news feed from the WordPress admin dashboard. In response, WordPress.org banned WP Engine from utilising any of its resources.

All in all, there is much uncertainty at the moment inside the world's most used CMS, WordPress, which powers over 43% of websites globally and is a mainstay in standard web development.

So, how can businesses proceed through the confusion and ambiguity?

Enter composable architecture - a modern, flexible approach that allows businesses to build tailored web solutions using the best available tools.  

Is the traditional CMS Model Becoming Obsolete?

The WordPress controversy serves as a reminder that a more adaptable and scalable approach, such as composable architecture, may be better suited for web developers.

Key Issues at Play 

1. Centralised Control vs. Open-Source Freedom: The WordPress dispute highlights the risks of centralised control in an open-source community, where trademark decisions by a few can affect millions.
2. Composability as the Future of Digital Experiences: Composable and headless CMS platforms are on the rise, offering a dynamic alternative to traditional platforms.
3. Sustainability of Open-Source Models: WordPress also highlights the challenges of maintaining open-source communities when commercial interests dominate. 

These limitations illustrate that while traditional systems like WordPress can be convenient, they may lack the flexibility, scalability, and control that businesses need to thrive in an increasingly complex digital environment.

Why does the Future of Web Development rely on a Composable Approach?

The most successful open-source platforms often face challenges when it comes to commercial interests clashing with community-driven values.

Composable architectures are modular, flexible systems built from independent, interchangeable components (microservices or APIs) that can be combined, reused, and adapted as needed.

Conclusion

If you are facing challenges with this dispute, we suggest considering a composable architecture – such as Storyblok.

At Resolution Digital, we provide tailored strategies and cutting-edge technologies to help businesses with today’s complex digital landscape. Whether you want to transition from traditional CMS systems or adopt a composable architecture, our technology strategy services can chart a clear path forward. We craft solutions that integrate the latest tools, helping your business operate more efficiently and scale effectively.

Learn about our MarTech services.