WordPress is the undisputed leader in CMSs or Content Management Systems. One of the many reasons WordPress is such a popular platform is that it is constantly evolving to include new technologies. However, with so much innovation, keeping up with the latest developments can be difficult. To best serve your clients, it’s a good idea to look ahead and see what web design and development trends are likely to dominate the market. This will make it easier to adapt and gain a competitive advantage.
In this blog, we’ll look at some highlighted WordPress development trends to watch for in the coming year, as well as some examples of how they can be used.
1. Integration of Chatbots
Automation and assistive technologies are appearing in a variety of forms on websites these days. Chatbots are one of the increasingly popular applications of this technology. These web-based messengers automate a variety of administrative and customer service tasks. They can assist with:
- Customer Service Automation
- Click Tracking
- Obtaining Leads
- Improving User Experience (UX)
Chatbots aren’t necessarily novel. On the other hand, Chatbots are becoming more ‘human-like’ as Artificial Intelligence (AI) advances.
As a result, businesses can use them in a variety of environments and applications, and will most likely continue to do so in the future. Indeed, at least 85% of businesses are expected to use it.
If you want to explore chatbots for your client’s websites, we recommend using a tool with simple WordPress integration. You could use Botsify. You can build a chatbot on their website and quickly integrate it into WordPress sites using a plugin or code.
The IBM Watson plugin is another option to consider. On the IBM Cloud, this tool makes use of IBM Watson Assistant (previously Watson Conversation). It has a steeper learning curve but provides nearly limitless customization options.
2. Voice Search Optimization
Speaking of AI, voice search is quickly becoming a standard technology for both business and personal use. Voice-activated search assistants like Siri and Alexa are also becoming more popular.
According to research, roughly half of all searches will be voice-activated. Furthermore, one-third of browsing sessions will take place without the use of a screen at all. In particular, voice shopping is expected to disrupt the retail industry in the coming years. The adoption of smart home speakers is expected to rise from 13% to 55%.
Voice search is also expected to have an impact on and improve SEO. When conducting a search query verbally rather than typing it, people tend to use more natural language. As voice search becomes more popular, we can expect search engines to produce results that are more in line with user intent.
Consider using a voice search plugin to get started with voice search optimization using the WordPress plugin WP Fastest Site Search. This plugin replaces WordPress’s default search widget. It allows you to create and customize your own WordPress search user interface without requiring any custom coding.
3. Blockchain Technology Innovation
Blockchain technology is becoming increasingly popular in financial sectors as a result of the adoption of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. However, we can expect it to have an impact on plugin development and content monetization on WordPress sites. It can be especially useful for increasing on-site security and speeding up payment transactions for e-commerce sites.
WordPress launched Newspack, a new platform with blockchain features, this year. This product’s primary goal is to improve the dependability and security of publishing outlets. It should eliminate many of the difficulties associated with back-end site maintenance and development.
There are also numerous WordPress cryptocurrency themes and plugins available. For example, to build a cryptocurrency website, you could use a theme like Cryptic. It is a cryptic WordPress cryptocurrency theme that can be used to verify reviews for blockchain plugins. WordProof Timestamp is also worth a look because it allows you to timestamp your WordPress content on any EOSIO blockchain.
4. Virtual and Augmented Reality
Businesses can now offer interactive experiences with advancements in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology. Both take a person’s physical environment and superimpose layers of digital information on top of it to simulate real-world scenarios.
The IKEA Place app is just one of many examples of how AR and VR can be used to improve consumer experiences. It allows users to preview how furniture will look in their homes by placing it in a room using their smartphone camera.
Another application is the ability to ‘virtually visit a location and take a tour without physically being there. Realtors, for example, can offer 3D VR tours to clients via their websites.
WordPress now allows 360-degree images and videos to be used in VR content. There are several approaches you can take if you want to add AR and VR features to your client sites. You should also think about using the Ozisti Theme. The Ozisti WordPress Theme is one of the simplest ways to integrate AR functionality into WordPress sites. It was designed specifically for e-commerce, but it can be used for a variety of projects.
5. Progressive Web Applications
Last but not least, Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) give mobile users an app-like experience without requiring them to install anything. They run in mobile browsers and function similarly to native apps.
Aside from creating your own PWA from scratch, you can also convert a site into a PWA using WordPress plugins. You can, for example, look at Super Progressive Web Apps. Users who visit the site from a mobile device can add this plugin to their home screens after installing it. Each page they visit will then be saved locally and accessible offline.
Conclusion
WordPress is always adding new features and functions. Of course, keeping up with the latest developments is critical. However, in order to truly enhance your offerings and better serve your clients, it is beneficial to become acquainted with the most anticipated trends.
