WordPress in 2025: the heated debates, the foreseeable future, and its implications for you
In a dramatic turn of events, Matt Mullenweg, co-founder of WordPress and CEO of Automattic, publicly criticized WP Engine as a 'cancer to WordPress' during WordCamp US in September 2024. This criticism marked the beginning of an ongoing legal conflict that has since escalated, leading to mutual accusations, lawsuits, and a ban on WP Engine from WordPress.org resources.
The controversy centres around allegations of profiting off WordPress and WooCommerce trademarks without contributing back to the ecosystem. Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com, amended the terms around these trademarks after the accusations were made. WP Engine, in response, issued a Cease and Desist letter and later filed a lawsuit.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, WordPress remains largely unaffected for users and developers. This is due in part to the GNU Public License, which ensures freedom to use, study, and modify the software, and share it with others. The platform continues to be widely adopted, with agencies like KOTA, a company that builds WordPress websites, still using it as a core platform for their projects.
When it comes to choosing a Content Management System (CMS), agencies like KOTA prioritise the right fit for each project, not just the one making headlines. Every project at KOTA starts with a CMS discovery process to determine the best platform for the project's needs. They analyse requirements and recommend the best fit, whether that's WordPress, Statamic, or a headless CMS such as Storyblok. KOTA does not push one solution, ensuring they remain platform-agnostic.
If you're considering a new website and aren't sure which CMS is best for you, KOTA can help break down your options and find the right fit. If there's a clear winner, they make a single recommendation. However, when there are multiple viable options, they outline the pros and cons so clients can make an informed decision.
The legal battle between Mullenweg and WP Engine is ongoing and could stretch into 2027 or beyond. While the drama continues, the world of CMS selection and project development moves forward, with agencies like KOTA focusing on finding the best solutions for their clients, regardless of the headlines.
A dedicated website, wpvswpe.report, has been documenting the unfolding drama. Key factors that influence CMS selection include functional requirements, budget, timescales, regulatory and compliance needs, and customer preference. As always, it's essential to consider all aspects before making a decision.
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