WordPress has come a long way since its first release 21 years ago. The early success of the platform was built on simplicity and fun elements like blogging, commenting, and pingbacks. The focus on dynamic websites, easy-to-edit documentation, and community involvement through forums like bbPress and BuddyPress has been crucial. Themes and plugins should have solid infrastructure and diverse options, with an emphasis on marketplace dynamics. Setting boundaries, quirky design choices, and feedback loops are all important for continued growth. Matt Mullenweg reflects on the unexpected journey of WordPress, from a late-night blog post to a global phenomenon.
https://ma.tt/2024/05/wp21/