After lots of reading and conversations with my fellow VA's, I'm just about to order HostGator as a reseller; I decided against GoDaddy, which I now use for my own website. I need to know, though, the difference between WordPress.org and WordPress.com. (Yes, I googled and read some, but need VA-specific wisdom.) I will be offering website design using WordPress instead of Godaddy, but want to be sure i get it right.

WordPress.com is hosted by Automattic (the creators of the WordPress Platform), so it similar to setting up a blog using Blogger or something similar. They have limited capabilities if you want to expand and use the site as a website and blog. When you set up a blog on WordPress.com you are also giving Automattic the right to use your content how they see fit, it's part of their terms of service.

Always, always use WordPress.org, the self hosted (simply means you hosted it on your own Web host service - like Hostgator) version and this gives you complete control over your site, design and how you use it.

I always suggest to clients that it's important to have control over your content and business property and with a self hosted version of WordPress you can do regular backups, adjust your site, add value and extras that you likely won't be able to do with WordPress.com.

There are a lot of resources out there to help you through learning everything there is to know about WordPress and reach out if you have questions.

__________________
Renee Shupe, Redhead Business Solutions & Ripple Action Marketing
New Program starting Feb 11Ripple Action Client Attraction

Thank you so much! One last question. As a reseller, do you design their WordPress site and then turn it over to them for ongoing upkeep; or is that an optional service/choice based on the customer?

Well, I don't actually have a reseller account set up, so I help them choose their hosting service and help them get it set up. At the same time I'll create a sample site on my own hosting service for them to review, once that has all been finalized I will then transfer the site to their own hosting service.

Depending on my client, I will either provide some training for them on how to use the site focused on the maintenance as well a editing or I will go ahead and take care of the maintenance myself for a monthly fee. As a re-seller you could look at bundling that together in the cost of hosting the site and handling maintenance for some recurring income.

__________________
Renee Shupe, Redhead Business Solutions & Ripple Action Marketing
New Program starting Feb 11Ripple Action Client Attraction

You're absolutely wonderful, Renee! I'm on my way now . . . just completed my HostGator reseller order. The maintenance will actually be a value added feature. Thanks again.

Well, I'm back to needing clarification on WordPress. I ended switching back to GoDaddy with web hosting account. Is the WordPress application I install through that link .org or .com?

I've been with GoDaddy for years and use wordpress.org. It was a long time ago but I seem to think they set it up. I don't recall having to install it myself. Maybe give their help desk a holler.

Lynne

__________________
The Wordpro Wizard
www.wordprowizard.com

I can do the install, but can't determine. My next step is to call the host. Also, have been trying to find a contact number for WordPress, but no success. And, their forum is quite dated. I'll forge ahead. Thanks.

Originally Posted by dotyel

I can do the install, but can't determine. My next step is to call the host. Also, have been trying to find a contact number for WordPress, but no success. And, their forum is quite dated. I'll forge ahead. Thanks.

Good luck - if you find a phone number for them, I will check back to see what it is. I have had issues with Wordpress and have been trying to contact someone as well. From what I found on their site - they do not even take email questions, much less phone calls. I am still researching. I decided to host with BlueHost and they have been wonderful in helping me figure out what the problem is. I really like what WordPress has to offer so will continue forging ahead.

__________________
Jill Alward
Administrative Expertise

I highly recommend BlueHost for anything related to your Website. I have been with them for the past 5 years, and only have good things to say about the service etc.

As for the installation of your WordPress platform, (if they are your hosting company) simply give them a call, and they will help you every step of the way!

__________________
Christiane Jechoux / Certified Social Media & Internet Marketing Consultant
Virtual Managing Associates