This post is written for informational purposes.
In website development, WordPress is by far the most commonly used content management system (or CMS). A CMS is the framework on which a website is built. WordPress powers almost half of the websites in the U.S.
Within the WordPress ecosystem, plugins play a pivotal role in expanding the functionality of websites. A plugin enhances a website by adding specific features or extending its capabilities. Plugins integrate seamlessly with WordPress, allowing users to customize and improve their site’s functionality without modifying the core code.
What is a Plugin?
A WordPress plugin is similar to a smartphone app. Just as apps add new features to your phone, plugins add new features and functionalities to a WordPress website. A plugin can include a simple contact form or a full-fledged online store. Third-party developers develop plugins that are available through the WordPress Plugin Directory or private vendors.
What Does the Beaver Builder Plugin Do?
Beaver Builder is a popular WordPress page builder plugin that enables users to create their own web pages through a drag-and-drop interface. It makes web design easier for people with little technical knowledge who aren’t familiar with web development. With Beaver Builder, users can construct pages visually, seeing changes in real time without writing code. It has different modules for adding text, images, sliders, and more, making it a flexible tool for creating professional websites.
Issues with the Beaver Builder Plugin
Like any software, Beaver Builder has drawbacks. One common issue is performance. To simplify the process, Beaver Builder generates complex code instructions called shortcodes. These “shortcodes” can lead to slower page load times, especially on more complex websites.
Additionally, while it offers extensive customization options, navigating the many settings and options can be overwhelming for beginners. Another concern is compatibility; as WordPress updates other plugins or the core theme, conflicts or bugs can affect Beaver Builder’s functionality.
How Can the Plugin Fail Over Time?
Over time, several factors can lead to the failure or degradation of a plugin like Beaver Builder:
- Updates and Compatibility: WordPress is continually updated, and these updates can sometimes break plugins if they need to be updated to be compatible with the latest version of WordPress.
- Security Vulnerabilities: All software can have vulnerabilities, and plugins are more prone to security issues. If you do not address these vulnerabilities through updates, malicious actors can exploit them.
- Performance Issues: As websites grow and more content or plugins are added, the performance of existing plugins can be affected. Beaver Builder’s resource-intensive nature might contribute to slower website performance over time.
- Support and Maintenance: If the developers behind Beaver Builder were to cease support or updates, the plugin could become obsolete or dysfunctional over time.
How to Know When It’s Time To Build a New Website
Spending over an hour monthly on website repairs is excessive. Websites require regular updates and maintenance, ideally taking at most an hour per month. If you have a retainer with your provider, monitor the time resolving issues with Beaver Builder. You should also assess your website developers as well.
A site audit is optional for evaluating Beaver Builder, but it offers valuable insights into your website’s condition. Use free tools like Google’s Page Speed Insights or Ubersuggest’s Site Auditor. For a comprehensive audit, consider contacting a reputable digital marketing agency. Some agencies offer free audits, but detailed audits typically cost $300 – $500.
If you would like a free site audit of your website, Power Marketing will provide one at no charge. If you are interested in transferring your Beaver Builder website to a custom WordPress platform or a theme-based WordPress platform like Elementor or Divi, give us a call or drop us an email.