Evaluating Your Options for Updating an Inherited Website: A Strategic Guide for Nonprofits

Introduction

Managing a nonprofit museum’s digital presence can be a challenging yet rewarding task, especially when resources are limited. If you’ve inherited an outdated website built on ExpressionEngine (EE) and are contemplating a rebuild, it’s crucial to approach this transition thoughtfully. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of your options, considerations for DIY approaches, and practical guidance for migrating to a more user-friendly and maintainable platform—especially when working with a lean budget.

Assessing the Feasibility of a DIY Website Rebuild

For individuals with limited technical experience—say, a high school-level understanding of Web Design supplemented by self-taught skills—embarking on a website rebuild is both ambitious and achievable with careful planning. However, it’s important to recognize inherent risks:

• Technical Challenges: Without advanced knowledge, you may encounter difficulties in ensuring site stability, security, and performance.
• Maintenance Concerns: Keeping the new platform secure and updated, especially with PHP version changes, requires ongoing effort.
• Scope Creep: Underestimating the complexity of features like event calendars, e-commerce, and integrations can lead to delays and frustrations.

If you choose to proceed independently, start small. Focus on creating a minimally viable product that meets core needs before expanding features.

Exploring Hybrid Solutions

A balanced approach might involve handling core content updates and initial site setup yourself, while seeking expert assistance for more complex tasks such as custom integrations or advanced security. This hybrid model allows you to develop familiarity with the platform and ensure critical components are professionally managed, reducing long-term risks.

Migrating Out of ExpressionEngine: Practical Pathways

Transitioning from EE to a more modern platform can seem daunting, but several strategies exist:

• Identify Your Priorities: Determine the essential features required—event management, e-commerce, accessibility, ease of use—and these will inform your platform choice.
• Evaluate Platforms: Consider user-friendly systems such as WordPress, which boasts extensive plugin ecosystems and community support. For nonprofit-specific functionality, plugins like The Events Calendar, WooCommerce, or GiveWP can be invaluable.
• Content Migration: Plan a structured migration of content to minimize downtime. Some migration plugins or professional services can facilitate this process.

Choosing a New Platform: Recommendations

Given your requirements—handling exhibit pages, events, memberships, donations, and future POS integrations—a flexible yet manageable system like WordPress is often