Stating requirements for installation

  • xtallman

    (@xtallman)


    12 years, 5 months ago

    This is more in the “why on earth” category instead of asking for help.

    I don’t understand why wordpress.org does not state simply and clearly on the front page, “If you want to install this, it will require some knowledge of hosts, servers, unix, and database implementations.” Since 87% of internet users use a Windows platform, and most of them don’t even know what a server is, writing as if you’re writing to an experienced unix audience seems pretty silly. The average Windows user who knows how to browse and edit documents, and maybe do a spreadsheet, and wants to use Blogger, for example, can expect that he needs no special training, and expects to be successful within a few minutes, and rightfully so. That’s the standard for most user-friendly software out there.

    I’m a Windows user with just enough knowledge about servers, hosts, file permissions, mySQL, php, FTP, Unix, etc., to hopefully get this installed. I found almost no indication looking at wordpress.org that any of this specialized knowledge would be required of me. I happen to be a computer professional. Most people using the internet are not, and would not have a hope in installing this software in a million years. Wouldn’t it be helpful to the majority of users out there to warn them of the level of technical knowledge required of them before they get lost in terminology that only programmers would understand?

Viewing 2 replies - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
  • WP Hosting Australia

    (@wphaustralia)

    12 years, 5 months ago

    Hi xtallman,

    You’re right, in some cases the end user does need to know some simple FTP and database creation to get started. However, I don’t think it’s as problematic as you describe.

    The fact that the end user even downloads the WordPress installation files implies they are ready to give it a go. If they download the zip file, chances are they know they are expected to unzip it and upload the files to a web server. The rest is just like installing a majority of PHP scripts – create a database, edit a config file, and you’re good to go.

    If the end user does attempt to install WordPress and they have no technical knowledge what-so-ever, one of two things will occur:

    1. The end user will research (this forum, blogs, google) until they learn the process required to complete a successful installation. This is great as it empowers the end user and adds to their technical ability and confidence.

    2. The end user will find it too complicated and ask their web host for help or find a host with easy installation tools (ie. Fantastico, zero click installs)

    If the end user really wants to get something up and running with zero effort, they’ll just pay someone to do it for them 🙂

    Also don’t forget this is why wordpress.com exists. You can create a blog with no technical knowledge in a matter of minutes. There are some limitations to wordpress.com, but changes are a non-technical end user won’t find this an issue (initially anyway).

    This is just my take on it anyway. There’s always more than one point of view 🙂

    Good luck with your installation!

    WP Hosting Australia

    (@wphaustralia)

    12 years, 5 months ago

    Forgot to mention the Codex contains a wealth of information for all WordPress users, novice to expert. This is the first place you should look for installation Instructions – http://codex.wordpress.org/Installing_WordPress

Viewing 2 replies - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
  • The topic ‘Stating requirements for installation’ is closed to new replies.