Design and Development

Remote Web Developer vs Freelance Web Developer: Pros and Cons

September 27, 2023

8 min read

Remote Web Developer vs Freelance Web Developer: Pros and Cons

Choosing Between Freelance Web Developers and Full-time Remote Developers: Pros and Cons Introduction In the wake of the significant shift towards remote work and the growing importance of user-friendly interfaces, businesses face a crucial decision when seeking skilled web developers. The question that arises is whether to hire a freelancer or a full-time remote web […]

Choosing Between Freelance Web Developers and Full-time Remote Developers: Pros and Cons

Introduction

In the wake of the significant shift towards remote work and the growing importance of user-friendly interfaces, businesses face a crucial decision when seeking skilled web developers. The question that arises is whether to hire a freelancer or a full-time remote web developer. While they both serve the same purpose, they are fundamentally different in terms of their employment arrangements. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the distinctions between freelance web developers and full-time remote web developers, helping you make an informed decision when expanding your development team.

1. Understanding Remote Developers

A full-time remote web developer is an integral part of your company who actively contributes to projects while operating from a remote location. Despite not being physically present in your office, they remain deeply engaged with your team and projects.

2. The Role of Freelance Developers

A freelance web developer, on the other hand, is a self-employed individual who collaborates with your team on specific projects. This arrangement is typically project-based, differing significantly from the long-term commitment of a full-time remote developer.

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Freelance Developer

Pros of Hiring a Freelancer

Cost Efficiency: Hiring a freelancer can be more cost-effective for your company, as it eliminates expenses like health insurance, retirement savings, and benefits. Freelancers are usually compensated on an hourly or project-based basis, avoiding overtime and holiday costs.
Flexibility and Independence: Freelancers have the flexibility to manage their schedules and workload based on project deliverables and deadlines. This flexibility allows them to work on multiple projects simultaneously without requiring additional resources from your end.
Expertise: Freelancers often specialize in specific aspects of web development, making them valuable for filling skill gaps in your team. Their ability to work independently can save time and resources on training and supervision.

Cons of Hiring a Freelancer

Quality Control: Assessing a freelancer’s skills can be challenging, and you may only discover knowledge gaps once a project is underway. Additionally, freelancers may use different technology stacks or outdated software, potentially slowing down development.
Lack of Commitment: Freelancers prioritize multiple clients, and your project may not be their top priority. This can lead to difficulties in managing timelines and deadlines, potentially impacting project quality.
Limited Post-Launch Support: Freelancers may provide limited post-launch support for a website, making it challenging to implement changes or updates after the project is completed.
Marketplace Challenges: Finding a qualified freelance web developer can be a daunting task, often requiring navigating chaotic freelance marketplaces where quality can vary significantly.

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Remote Web Developer

Pros of Hiring Full-time Programmer

Accountability: A full-time remote web developer becomes an integral part of your team, aligning with your company’s culture, goals, and values. This accountability ensures consistent commitment to your projects.
Skill Set Development: You can thoroughly assess a remote developer’s skills through pre-hire testing and provide training in essential areas as needed. Self-discipline, time management, and proactive reporting are valuable traits that remote developers bring to the table.
Integration with Your Team: Remote web developers are active team members who understand your site’s intricacies, internal structures, and company processes. This familiarity facilitates seamless collaboration and support.
Streamlined Hiring Process: Finding and hiring a remote web developer is simplified by partnering with specialized recruiters who can connect you with suitable candidates efficiently.

Cons of Hiring Remotely

Cultural Differences: Hiring remotely allows you to choose candidates from around the world, but it also introduces potential cultural and language differences that must be managed. Ensuring alignment with your team’s values and convenient time zones is essential.
Discipline Challenges: Remote web developers require self-discipline and commitment. Without proper communication and team-building efforts, they may struggle with deadlines and quality.
Higher Costs: Hiring a remote web developer involves additional expenses such as benefits, holidays, and HR costs compared to freelancers. However, this investment often results in a valuable long-term team member.

Conclusion

In summary, the choice between hiring a freelance web developer and a full-time remote web developer depends on your specific project needs and company goals. Freelancers offer flexibility and cost savings but may lack long-term commitment and support. On the other hand, full-time remote developers provide accountability, skill development, and integration with your team but come with additional costs.

Understanding these pros and cons will help you make an informed decision when expanding your web development team. Ultimately, your choice should align with your project’s scope, timeline, and the level of commitment you seek in a developer.

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Design and Development

HOW I GOT OUT OF DEBT WITH A WEB DESIGN SIDE HUSTLE

September 27, 2023

8 min read

HOW I GOT OUT OF DEBT WITH A WEB DESIGN SIDE HUSTLE

Achieving Financial Freedom: A Comprehensive Guide to Debt Reduction with a Side Hustle Subtitle: Strategizing, Budgeting, and Staying Motivated on Your Journey to Debt Freedom Introduction Achieving financial freedom is a goal that many couples set for themselves long before they tie the knot. As soon as the engagement ring is on the finger, it’s […]

Achieving Financial Freedom: A Comprehensive Guide to Debt Reduction with a Side Hustle

Subtitle: Strategizing, Budgeting, and Staying Motivated on Your Journey to Debt Freedom

Introduction

Achieving financial freedom is a goal that many couples set for themselves long before they tie the knot. As soon as the engagement ring is on the finger, it’s essential to sit down and discuss finances, creating a game plan for a debt-free future. This proactive approach ensures that both partners are on the same page and have clear expectations for the journey ahead.

1. Crafting a Comprehensive Budget

Taking the First Step Towards Financial Freedom

Creating and adhering to a budget is the foundational step in your journey to becoming debt-free. No matter how much extra income you generate, without a well-structured budget, you’ll always feel like you’re struggling to keep up. This section delves into the importance of budgeting, offering practical insights and tips for getting started.

2. Setting Tangible Goals

The Power of Specificity in Achieving Financial Milestones

Setting clear and measurable goals is vital for maintaining motivation on your debt reduction journey. This section emphasizes the need for specificity when establishing financial targets. Learn how to calculate your debt payoff timeline, factoring in your side hustle income, and understand the importance of adjusting your goals when necessary.

3. Managing Expectations with Loved Ones

Building a Supportive Network for Your Debt-Free Journey

While working on your side hustle and paying off debt, it’s crucial to communicate your expectations with loved ones. This section explores how to navigate relationships, whether you’re single or married, and the importance of setting realistic expectations with your spouse and family members.

4. Staying Organized

Efficiency and Organization: Keys to Maximizing Your Side Hustle

Effective organization is key when juggling a full-time job, side hustle, and debt repayment. Learn how to keep your schedule and priorities in check, how to maintain a work-life balance, and how to manage your clients and projects efficiently to ensure your side hustle remains profitable and sustainable.

5. Maintaining Focus and Motivation

Overcoming Challenges and Staying Committed to Your Goals

Staying motivated on a long-term journey like debt reduction can be challenging. This section provides strategies to maintain focus, including the importance of having a compelling “Why,” creating visualizations, and staying resilient when faced with obstacles. Discover how to build mental fortitude to ensure you stay committed until you reach financial freedom.

Conclusion

Becoming debt-free through a side hustle is not just a dream; it’s an achievable reality with the right plan in place. By crafting a comprehensive budget, setting tangible goals, managing expectations with loved ones, staying organized, and maintaining focus and motivation, you can embark on a successful journey to financial freedom. This comprehensive guide equips you with the knowledge and tools to take control of your financial future and build a life free from the burdens of debt.

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Design and Development

IS WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT COST A CAPITAL EXPENSE?

September 27, 2023

8 min read

IS WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT COST A CAPITAL EXPENSE?

Navigating the Complex World of Taxation for Small Businesses Small business owners are no strangers to the complexity of tax forms and regulations. While it may seem daunting, mastering this intricate landscape is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your business. The dynamic nature of technology has further compounded this complexity, as tax laws struggle […]

Navigating the Complex World of Taxation for Small Businesses

Small business owners are no strangers to the complexity of tax forms and regulations. While it may seem daunting, mastering this intricate landscape is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your business. The dynamic nature of technology has further compounded this complexity, as tax laws struggle to keep pace with evolving business practices driven by technological advancements.

The Enigma of Capital Expenses

In this segment, we will delve into the concept of capital expenses, exploring whether website development costs can be categorized as such and the implications this has on your tax filings and returns.

Web and Mobile Development: Taxing Questions

Frequently, clients seek answers about the tax implications of web and mobile development, a realm in which we excel as app developers, though not as tax experts. However, through interactions with clients and their accountants, we have gleaned valuable insights.

Untangling Business Expenses for Taxation

Business expenses can typically be divided into two primary categories: Capital Expenses and Operating Expenses. While most expenditures neatly fit into one of these categories, the landscape becomes murkier when dealing with technology-related expenses like website development and app development.

Tax Implications of Website and App Development

The IRS does not offer specific guidelines for classifying website and app development expenses. This leaves us pondering whether these expenses align more with operational or capital expenditures, a question that hinges on the nature of your business and your approach to these investments.

Navigating the Ambiguities: Other Considerations

Apart from capital and operational expenses, several other tax fields come into play when considering website and app development costs. These nuances add complexity to the classification process and necessitate a closer examination of your unique circumstances.

The Complexity of Capital Expenses

Capital Expenses Defined: Capital expenses encompass significant purchases that yield benefits in future tax periods. Typically, this category includes acquisitions such as buildings and hardware.

These investments are recorded on tax forms as assets and are subject to taxation as investment activities. This is because the capital items are now owned by your company, making them assets, and are anticipated to either save money or generate revenue, making them investments.

The Case for Website as a Capital Expense

We might argue that a website fits this definition. However, websites may not depreciate in value as traditional assets do. Nevertheless, some businesses can sell their websites, particularly if the website is integral to their operations and significantly enhances their overall value.

Operational Expenses: The Day-to-Day Costs

Operational Expenses Defined: Operating expenses comprise smaller, day-to-day expenditures that deliver shorter-term benefits, such as payroll and utilities.

For software development, a substantial portion of the costs typically goes towards compensating developers, akin to operational expenses. However, from a tax perspective, funding website development and paying for operational services may present differing implications.

In-House vs. Third-Party Development

If you employ in-house web developers or freelancers, these expenses are generally considered operational costs, as you are essentially compensating employees for their services. While operational expenses are tax-deductible, they may portray your business as having expenses rather than investments and assets.

Conversely, when collaborating with third-party development teams, the expense may be classified as a capital investment since you are essentially purchasing a product or service from an external provider. Capital expenses, while not tax-deductible, categorize costs as assets and investments, potentially enhancing your business’s perceived value.

The Ambiguity of Marketing and Advertising Expenses

Marketing and Advertising Expenses: A Gray Area

Depending on your approach to website and app development costs, they may qualify as either operational or capital expenses. However, when considering additional website-related expenses like web hosting and maintenance, they may align more closely with marketing costs.

Marketing expenses, while not tax-deductible in the same way as operational expenses, often qualify for various tax benefits. Yet, the criteria for defining a marketing expense are more stringent, requiring a direct contribution to the revenue generated through sales and services.

In certain scenarios, the costs associated with website development and other software development outsourcing may be classified as marketing expenses, bypassing the capital versus operational expense dilemma altogether.

Navigating the Taxation Maze: A Recap

In conclusion, it is imperative to emphasize that this article does not provide tax, financial, or legal advice. While it offers valuable insights, consulting a tax preparation expert is essential if you are uncertain about classifying your website or app development expenses.

As you’ve discovered, classifying these expenses is a nuanced endeavor, influenced by factors such as the development team, payment structure, intended use of the website or app, and your overall business strategy.

Ultimately, your classification decisions can impact your business in various ways, influencing tax returns, financial perception, and future prospects. These intricacies provide opportunities for strategic maneuvering but also underscore the need for cautious navigation in the ever-evolving landscape of business taxation.

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Design and Development

How Do You Book a Capitalized Software Journal Entry?

September 27, 2023

8 min read

How Do You Book a Capitalized Software Journal Entry?

Exploring Software Capitalization in Accounting In the dynamic world of business, sometimes, off-the-shelf software just doesn’t cut it. When your company’s unique needs demand tailored solutions, you might find yourself in a situation where custom software development becomes necessary. However, it’s crucial to understand how to manage the financial aspects of this process. In this […]

Exploring Software Capitalization in Accounting

In the dynamic world of business, sometimes, off-the-shelf software just doesn’t cut it. When your company’s unique needs demand tailored solutions, you might find yourself in a situation where custom software development becomes necessary. However, it’s crucial to understand how to manage the financial aspects of this process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of software capitalization, covering everything from what costs should be capitalized to the journal entries required for proper accounting treatment.

1. Software Capitalization: What Qualifies?

Before we dive into the specifics of journal entries, let’s establish a foundation by discussing the criteria that determine whether software costs should be capitalized or expensed. Accounting standards distinguish between software developed for internal use and software intended for external users.

1.1 Internal Use Software

For software developed or acquired for internal use, the key considerations revolve around the project’s stage:

a. Project Stage: This initial stage involves researching various alternatives, evaluating vendor proposals, and selecting the most suitable option. All costs incurred during this phase are expensed.

b. Application Development Stage: At this stage, coding and testing are performed, and costs related to the asset include programmer compensation, payments to contractors, travel expenses, interest incurred for development financing, testing, overhead costs, server installation, and software purchases. These costs are capitalized.

c. Implementation Stage: After the software is live and in use, any costs associated with training and maintenance are expensed.

Subsequently, the capitalized software development costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software, typically two to five years, using the straight-line method. Both depreciation and amortization spread the cost of assets over their benefit-providing years.

2. Dealing with Abandoned Software

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, software projects can be abandoned prematurely. In such cases, any unamortized balance is expensed, and both the capitalized asset and the associated accumulated amortization are removed from the balance sheet. However, it’s essential to be aware that significant upgrades or enhancements may trigger a restart of the application development stage, leading to the capitalization of new costs.

3. Tax Considerations

It’s worth noting that tax rules for software development may differ from accounting standards. Nevertheless, segregating software development costs in your general ledger can be beneficial, especially given potential tax credits for software R&D.

4. External Use Software

Accounting standards also distinguish between software developed for internal and external use. When it comes to software intended for external users, similar principles apply, with costs divided into three phases:

4.1 Pre-Technological Feasibility

This phase encompasses research and development, and under U.S. GAAP, research and development costs are expensed as they are incurred, unlike IFRS, which allows capitalization.

4.2 Technological Feasibility

Here, research and development are substantially completed, but the software is not yet ready for sale. From this point until the software is available for general release, all costs are capitalized, although this can be a gray area that some companies choose to bypass.

4.3 Available for Sale

Once the software is ready for sale, all costs, including maintenance, training, minor upgrades, and customer support, are expensed. Amortization of any capitalized costs begins at this point.

5. Capitalization Journal Entries

Now that we’ve covered the principles, let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of capitalization journal entries, assuming that labor costs are the primary expenses to be capitalized.

5.1 Data Gathering

Gathering the necessary data for the journal entries is crucial. For costs from contractors, simply request invoices, distinguishing development work from bug fixes and maintenance. For employee-generated data, consider tracking hours worked on software development or requesting estimates from engineering management. Some companies leverage data engineers already use, like “story points” in Agile development, and apply weighted salary rates to the development time.

5.2 Journal Entry Details

Journal: Capitalized Software

Frequency: Each reporting period (e.g., monthly)

FloQast Folder Location: ‘Fixed Assets’

Journal Entry 1 (To capitalize software internally developed during June 2020):

Date	Account Name	Debit ($)	Credit ($)
6/30/20	Internally developed software asset – Project XYZ	$42,375
	Internally developed software asset – Project ABC	$15,000
	Payroll accrual/clearing		$57,375
Memo:	To capitalize software internally developed during June 2020

Journal Entry 2 (To record June 2020 amortization of internally developed software asset):

Date	Account Name	Debit ($)	Credit ($)
6/30/20	Amortization expense	$1,584.00
	Accumulated amortization, internally developed software		$1,584.00
Memo:	To record June 2020 amortization of internally developed software asset

6. Additional Considerations

As you navigate the complexities of software capitalization, keep these points in mind:

Capitalizing software can be time-consuming but offers stability to your company’s net income by spreading salary expenses over time.
Depending on your company’s tax status, there may be IRS R&D credits and payroll tax credits to benefit from.
Maintain meticulous documentation to satisfy auditors and tax authorities, ensuring that your capitalization entries have ample supporting evidence.

7. Reconciliation

To effectively manage your capitalized software, consider implementing these reconciliation practices:

Maintain a running list of additions and disposals by project.
Calculate your net asset balance by rolling forward the additions, subtracting amortization, and accounting for decommissioned software.
Avoid common pitfalls, such as failing to credit a contra expense account or not capitalizing assets by the specific project.

In conclusion, understanding software capitalization is vital for responsible financial management. By adhering to accounting standards and best practices, you can navigate the complexities of software development costs, potentially benefiting from tax credits and ensuring your financial statements accurately reflect the value of your software assets.

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Design and Development

What is Software Capitalization?

September 27, 2023

8 min read

Unlocking Business Value: The Significance of Software Capitalization The Essentials of Software Capitalization Software Capitalization: Understanding the Basics Maximizing Business Potential The Benefits of Software Capitalization Overcoming Hurdles Challenges in Capitalizing R&D Costs A Roadmap to Effective Capitalization Strategies for Successful Software Capitalization The Solution at Hand Leveraging Engineering Management Platforms for Software Capitalization The […]

Unlocking Business Value: The Significance of Software Capitalization

The Essentials of Software Capitalization Software Capitalization: Understanding the Basics

Maximizing Business Potential The Benefits of Software Capitalization

Overcoming Hurdles Challenges in Capitalizing R&D Costs

A Roadmap to Effective Capitalization Strategies for Successful Software Capitalization

The Solution at Hand Leveraging Engineering Management Platforms for Software Capitalization

The Essentials of Software Capitalization

As a technical leader, your primary focus may not have initially included collaborating with finance teams on software capitalization strategies. However, this practice plays a pivotal role in the success of your company by increasing valuations and attracting investment. In this section, we’ll delve into the fundamentals of software capitalization and why it’s crucial.

What is Software Capitalization?

Software capitalization is an accounting practice that transforms software research and development (R&D) costs from immediate expenses into long-term investments. Instead of recognizing these costs as losses on a profit and loss (P&L) sheet, they are treated as assets on a balance sheet, amortized over time.

The rationale behind this approach is that R&D expenses do not necessarily align with the periods when revenues are generated. Thus, matching these costs with future revenues becomes essential. For example, if your company invested $1 million in 2020 to develop groundbreaking software, the logical choice might be to offset this expense against revenues realized in 2021 and beyond, when the software becomes market-ready.

Maximizing Business Potential

The Benefits of Software Capitalization

The true value of software capitalization becomes apparent when considering its impact on business valuation. In the tech industry, investors often assess a company’s worth based on its revenues or profits, with Ebitda (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization) being a common profitability indicator. By capitalizing R&D costs and spreading them over time, these expenses are excluded from the Ebitda calculation. This adjustment increases profits, ultimately enhancing the company’s value. For startups heavily invested in R&D, this can be a game-changer, attracting more capital for growth or benefiting shareholders in potential acquisitions.

Is It Legitimate?

R&D capitalization isn’t a dubious practice but rather a well-established one. It adheres to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in the United States and the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), which may even mandate its application in specific cases. Surprisingly, approximately 57% of public U.S. software companies capitalize a portion of their R&D expenditures. However, some notable companies like Salesforce, Amazon, Workday, and Atlassian capitalize less than 1% of their R&D expenses. The question arises: why don’t more companies capitalize on this opportunity?

Overcoming Hurdles

Challenges in Capitalizing R&D Costs

While capitalizing R&D costs seems like a prudent decision, the challenges lie in determining which projects will yield future revenues and quantifying those revenues accurately. Furthermore, when your software team works on multiple projects concurrently, accurately measuring the development costs for each project becomes a daunting task.

Addressing Uncertainty

To tackle the first challenge, developing or adopting an appropriate framework for valuing and capitalizing intangible assets similar to yours may require time and research. Different industries employ distinct methods, often necessitating consultation with industry experts.

Managing Multifaceted Development

Handling concurrent projects necessitates a rigorous approach. Traditional methods, such as manual spreadsheet tracking or requiring engineers to log their time, can be cumbersome and unreliable. Alternatively, an Engineering Management Platform (EMP), like Jellyfish, offers a streamlined solution by automatically measuring engineers’ time spent on specific tasks and projects, providing an auditable record of engineering efforts for capitalizable projects.

A Roadmap to Effective Capitalization

Strategies for Successful Software Capitalization

Software capitalization, though challenging, can significantly benefit tech companies with substantial R&D investments and future revenue potential. To gain deeper insights into software capitalization and discover how Jellyfish can assist in this process, explore our website and request a demo today.

In this comprehensive article, we’ve explored the essentials of software capitalization, the substantial benefits it offers, the challenges involved, effective strategies for capitalization, and the role of Engineering Management Platforms in simplifying the process. By understanding and implementing software capitalization strategies, technical leaders can contribute significantly to their company’s growth and financial success.

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Design and Development

WordPress Deployment Workflow

September 25, 2023

8 min read

Streamlining Your WordPress Deployment Workflow In the realm of WordPress development, the process of deploying your website can be as varied as the themes and plugins available in the vast WordPress ecosystem. Each developer may have their preferred tools and strategies. In this guide, we will explore my personal WordPress deployment workflow as a solo […]

Streamlining Your WordPress Deployment Workflow

In the realm of WordPress development, the process of deploying your website can be as varied as the themes and plugins available in the vast WordPress ecosystem. Each developer may have their preferred tools and strategies. In this guide, we will explore my personal WordPress deployment workflow as a solo developer, with a focus on different scenarios and the tools I employ to make the process seamless.

Situation 1: The Inaugural Deployment

Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” plays in the background

When it comes to deploying a brand-new WordPress site to a live server, I have a go-to solution that has never failed to impress me – DesktopServer. This tool not only facilitates the creation of development sites but also provides a fantastic method for deploying a WordPress site to a live server.

The magic lies in its “quick deploy” feature, which requires only a live server with WordPress pre-installed. Simply provide the admin credentials for the destination site, press a button, and watch the magic unfold. Your local site seamlessly replaces the destination site. It’s so effortless that it almost hurts.

Situation 2: Updating Theme or Plugin Files

Now, let’s consider a scenario where I’ve made alterations to theme or plugin files on my local site that need to be pushed to the live server. Unfortunately, DesktopServer’s quick deploy won’t work here, as it replaces the entire live site. I need a more precise solution for pushing only the changed files.

Option 1: Quick and Dirty

For simple projects where fancy solutions are unnecessary, I opt for the good old plain FTP/SFTP method. It gets the job done with minimal overhead, making it perfect for straightforward file transfers.

Option 2: Version Control with Git

When dealing with projects that involve ongoing changes, Git push is my weapon of choice. Although it requires more initial setup than an SFTP client, it pays off in the long run, especially when working in a live staging environment where frequent file tweaks are the norm. For a detailed guide on using Git push with WP Engine, check out my article here.

Option 3: Automated Deployment

Although I no longer use this method, automated deployment is still worth mentioning. Automated deployment involves triggering actions that deploy code to a server when it’s pushed to a specified repository. Tools like DeployBot and Beanstalk have served me well in the past, allowing for advanced actions like script execution and code compilation during deployment. If you’re seeking a simpler “push to deploy” solution with extra features, consider the WP Pusher or Github updater plugins.

Situation 3: Syncing Content Between Local and Live

Historically, syncing content between a local WordPress install and a live server has been a tedious task, particularly when it involves database synchronization. However, a game-changer has arrived in the form of WPSiteSync by Dave Jesch.

Imagine effortlessly pushing new posts with media attachments from your local environment to your live site—it’s now possible with WPSiteSync. This plugin supports bi-directional syncing, allowing content to flow both ways between local and live. Currently, it can sync regular posts, custom post types, and authors, with plans to expand its support for other content types like menus, users, and comments. Additionally, the Beaver Builder extension makes working with Beaver Builder smoother in a local development environment.

Situation 4: Database Replacement

In situations where you need to build a new WordPress theme or modify an existing one for a client with an existing WordPress site, it’s crucial to work with their actual content and media files, not placeholders like bacon ipsum or placeholder kittens. This is where Migrate DB Pro steps in as the ultimate solution.

When faced with this scenario, I install Migrate DB Pro on both my local and live sites. This versatile tool enables me to seamlessly pull down the entire database, along with media files if needed, to my local installation. Of course, you can also push changes from local to live. While there are various scenarios for its usage, I find Migrate DB Pro most valuable when initially accessing an existing WordPress site.

Situation 5: Merging Two Databases

Merging two databases in WordPress has historically been a headache without an elegant solution—until now. Allow me to introduce you to MergeBot, a game-changing product developed by the same team behind Migrate DB Pro.

MergeBot is designed to tackle the challenge of merging two WordPress databases seamlessly. This innovative solution resolves one of the most significant pain points in WordPress site management. To illustrate its relevance, let’s examine a real-world example:

Suppose you’re tasked with merging two WordPress sites, each with its unique content and configurations. MergeBot simplifies this complex process, ensuring a smooth transition and eliminating the need for manual data manipulation.

In conclusion, your WordPress deployment workflow can greatly benefit from these tools and strategies, tailored to your specific needs and project requirements. Whether you’re a solo developer or part of a collaborative team, optimizing your deployment process is essential for delivering efficient and reliable WordPress websites.

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Design and Development

What Happens to Your Websites When You Die?

September 22, 2023

8 min read

What Happens to Your Websites When You Die?

“Preserving Your Digital Legacy: Planning for the Inevitable” Introduction What happens to your digital life when you’re no longer here to manage it? In today’s hyper-connected world, your online presence continues even after you’re gone. This article explores the importance of planning your digital succession, understanding your digital assets, and ensuring your digital legacy lives […]

“Preserving Your Digital Legacy: Planning for the Inevitable”

Introduction

What happens to your digital life when you’re no longer here to manage it? In today’s hyper-connected world, your online presence continues even after you’re gone. This article explores the importance of planning your digital succession, understanding your digital assets, and ensuring your digital legacy lives on. Discover how to safeguard your online footprint for the future.

The Digital Afterlife Dilemma

Invisible Threads That Connect Us

Imagine you’re reading this article and suddenly, the unthinkable happens. What if you were to pass away at this very moment? Your Facebook and Instagram profiles would persist, oblivious to your departure. People might unknowingly “like” your last selfie, unaware it’s your final photograph.

Meanwhile, WhatsApp group notifications would continue to pop up, inviting you for coffee next Tuesday. Your Gmail inbox would fill with unread messages, and clients would grow frustrated with the radio silence that you can’t break.

Hidden within your device lies an extensive archive of photos, locked away with no one to share them. Software licenses remain active for now, thanks to this month’s direct debit, but that can’t go on indefinitely, potentially causing your website to wither away.

Planning Your Digital Succession

Embracing the Inevitable

As a society, we often shy away from discussing death, and it’s reflected in our reluctance to draft conventional wills. Shockingly, fewer than half of US adults have a will according to Caring.com. If you run a blog, own a small business, or moderate an online community, your passing affects not only you but also your customers and subscribers. They’ve invested in services they expect to last beyond your lifetime.

To ensure the continuity of these services, it’s crucial to formulate a plan for your digital assets.

Understanding Your Digital Assets

Beyond the Catchy Label

The term ‘digital assets’ is catchy but encompasses a complex array of elements:

Ownership:
- Personal assets (email accounts, chats, texts, social media accounts)
- Financial assets (online bank accounts, PayPal, Bitcoin, etc)
- Business assets (eBay, Spotify, customer orders)
- Intellectual property rights (domain names, images, blogs, e-courses, podcasts, books, and computer files)

Knowing what can and cannot be redistributed after you’ve passed is essential for preserving your legacy or business.

Ownership of Your Data

The Fine Print of Digital Services

Surprisingly, when it comes to digital assets, you often don’t truly own what you use on social platforms. Accepting a tech company’s terms and conditions often means you’re subscribing to a ‘digital service’ rather than owning the content outright. This can become particularly important if you’ve created online courses or content with commercial value. Who will inherit the income generated from these assets?

Each platform has its own terms and conditions, making it necessary to explore your rights and potential income distribution after your passing.

The Importance of Passwords

The Keys to Your Digital Kingdom

People underestimate the number of accounts they accumulate over a lifetime, from online banking to social media pages. Each requires a password, often with two-factor authentication tied to your phone. Without a will in place, your digital assets may vanish upon your sudden demise, leaving savings, memories, and online ventures in jeopardy.

Ensuring Your Digital Assets Live On

The Internet and Its Silent Departures

While we don’t typically associate the internet with mortality, people go offline daily. Facebook alone has seen an estimated 30 million users pass away in its first eight years, leaving behind photos, chats, and comments. Facebook does offer memorialized accounts, but there can be a delay, leading to posthumous friend requests and messages.

To gracefully exit the digital world, consider appointing someone to manage these matters on your behalf. Different companies have varying policies regarding death and privacy, so knowing which platforms you use most is a crucial first step in managing your digital legacy.

Preserving Your Digital Footprint

Three Essential Steps

Preserving your digital legacy can be broken down into three straightforward steps:

Make a Digital Inventory:
- Document all your digital assets, including online accounts, passwords, and associated contact information. Ensure that those you trust know how to access your accounts when you’re no longer here.
Write a Digital Will:
- Choose who should inherit your digital assets upon your passing. This could be an individual, an organization, or both. If you select a sole digital executor, you’re entrusting them with the responsibility of managing and distributing your digital assets.
Store Your Passwords:
- If you prefer not to document all your passwords, consider using a digital storage service that can securely manage them on your behalf. This streamlines access for your chosen executor, requiring only one account and password for access to your assets.

Why Nominating a Digital Executor Matters

Ensuring the Continuation of Your Digital Presence

If you’re serious about safeguarding your digital assets, a digital executor can play a crucial role in preserving your content after you’re gone. To grant them access to your accounts, they will need a death certificate, a grant of probate, and their executor’s ID. The responsibilities of a digital executor include:

Managing your digital files, photos, videos, podcasts, and other online assets.
Transferring your phone’s data, including photos, voice messages, and texts, to your chosen beneficiaries.
Maintaining your business’s online presence, which may involve handling web hosting services and domain renewals.
Managing financial assets, cryptocurrency, vouchers, and distributing them to your designated beneficiaries.
Informing social media platforms, online communities, digital friends, and business contacts (if applicable) of your passing.

Naming a Digital Executor

Ensuring Your Wishes Are Carried Out

If you already have a traditional will but haven’t included your online passwords or designated a digital executor, you can rectify this by seeking legal assistance. A lawyer or legal services can help you make a ‘codicil amendment’ to your existing will.

Embracing the Inevitability of Death

Preparing for the Unavoidable

Death is a topic that many find uncomfortable to confront, especially in the context of their digital legacy. The ephemeral nature of the internet and its relentless drive towards the future contribute to our neglect of this aspect of life. Yet, irrespective of wealth, beliefs, or background, we all face the certainty of death.

As time passes and we age, our bodies undergo changes. It’s a universal truth that we must eventually pass the baton to those who can continue our work when we’re no longer here.

Conclusion: Embrace the Opportunity to Plan

If you’ve reached the end of this article, you’ve realized the importance of planning for your digital legacy. While the internet may feel eternal, your time here is not. By taking the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your digital presence continues to shine even after you’ve left the stage. Don’t wait; start planning your digital succession today.

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Design and Development

Is WordPress PHP based (and is that important)?

September 21, 2023

8 min read

Is WordPress PHP based (and is that important)?

The Influence of PHP on WordPress: An In-Depth Analysis 1. Introduction to WordPress WordPress, the Powerhouse of the Internet WordPress, often dubbed the engine driving the internet, is not just a content management system (CMS); it’s a fundamental part of thousands of the world’s most prominent websites. Its flexibility is so remarkable that many sites […]

The Influence of PHP on WordPress: An In-Depth Analysis

1. Introduction to WordPress

WordPress, the Powerhouse of the Internet

WordPress, often dubbed the engine driving the internet, is not just a content management system (CMS); it’s a fundamental part of thousands of the world’s most prominent websites. Its flexibility is so remarkable that many sites using WordPress aren’t immediately recognizable as such until you delve into the backend.

2. The Importance of Understanding WordPress Crucial Knowledge for Developers

In the digital landscape, it’s essential for developers to grasp the intricacies of WordPress, including its core languages. Among the frequent inquiries is whether WordPress is PHP-based. In this article, we’ll delve into the languages WordPress employs and their pivotal roles in powering this esteemed web publishing system.

3. Unveiling WordPress: A Closer Look The WordPress Ecosystem

WordPress stands as the reigning champion among content management systems on the web. Beyond its primary function of providing a backend for content publication, it boasts an intuitive WYSIWYG editor and extensive media support. It’s renowned for its user-friendly interface and adaptability, making it the backbone of modern and visually appealing websites. With over 60,000 plugins available, WordPress’s functionality extends beyond imagination, including e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce.

4. The PHP Universe Demystifying PHP

PHP, a popular open-source scripting language, has a fascinating history dating back to its inception in 1993. Originally created to build simple web applications, PHP has evolved into a versatile language. Operating server-side, PHP combines HTML with embedded code, processing tasks on the server before delivering the final HTML to users. Its compatibility spans operating systems, servers, browsers, and databases, making it a favorite among developers for performing a wide array of tasks.

5. WordPress: A PHP Powerhouse The PHP Backbone of WordPress

In a word, yes, WordPress is PHP-based. PHP plays a central role in WordPress, from its core files to themes and plugins. While HTML, CSS, and JavaScript also have roles, PHP takes the lead. MySQL complements PHP by storing and retrieving crucial data for both the frontend and backend, enabling dynamic website functionality. Essentially, PHP acts silently in the background, ensuring that your website functions smoothly.

6. Evaluating PHP in WordPress Efficiency and Challenges

While PHP is integral to WordPress, some argue that its implementation could be more efficient. Plugins, in particular, may suffer from infrequent updates, leading to inefficiencies and security risks. However, it’s important to note that both PHP and WordPress have their quirks. WordPress’s popularity has also attracted a wide range of developers, including entry-level ones, which has implications for the quality of WordPress sites.

7. Harnessing the Power of PHP Building Exceptional WordPress Sites

To create exceptional WordPress sites, developers must rely on their PHP expertise. Custom code and limited plugin usage are key to building on WordPress’s foundation. Additionally, a strong grasp of PHP has applications beyond WordPress, extending to other CMSs and frameworks like Joomla, Drupal, and Laravel. Developing in PHP for WordPress sets the stage for a versatile portfolio.

8. The Future of PHP in WordPress Challenges and Opportunities

WordPress’s long legacy and immense popularity have led to some challenges in integrating new PHP features promptly. These idiosyncrasies can also find their way into plugins, potentially promoting suboptimal coding practices. Nonetheless, developers can navigate these challenges by leveraging their PHP skills and customizing WordPress to create responsive and visually appealing websites.

9. Conclusion Mastering PHP for WordPress Success

In conclusion, PHP is at the core of WordPress, driving both the intuitive backend user interface and the appealing frontend experiences. While WordPress may have its development quirks, developers can harness their PHP proficiency to create efficient, beautiful, and user-friendly websites. By minimizing plugin usage and incorporating custom PHP code, developers can take full advantage of WordPress while expanding their horizons in the world of web development.

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Design and Development

Setting up a PHP development environment for Symfony with Windows and WSL2

September 13, 2023

8 min read

Setting up a PHP development environment for Symfony with Windows and WSL2

Developer Experience with WSL2 for PHP Development on Windows The PHP development Experience Triad Provides a Seamless Developer Experience Improving PHP Development on Windows Improving PHP development on Windows can significantly enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow. While traditionally associated with Unix-based systems,development on Windows has become increasingly popular due to the […]

Developer Experience with WSL2 for PHP Development on Windows

The PHP development Experience Triad Provides a Seamless Developer Experience

Improving PHP Development on Windows

PHP Development on Windows

Improving PHP development on Windows can significantly enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow. While traditionally associated with Unix-based systems,development on Windows has become increasingly popular due to the widespread use of Windows among developers and the advancements in tooling and compatibility. Here’s how you can optimize your development experience on Windows:

Use WAMP or XAMPP: These are popular stacks that include Apache, MySQL, and PHP bundled together for easy installation and configuration on Windows. They provide a complete environment for development without the need to install and configure each component separately.
Upgrade to PHP 8: Keeping your PHP version up-to-date ensures you benefit from the latest features, performance improvements, and security enhancements. PHP 8 offers significant performance boosts and introduces several new language features like JIT compilation and union types.
Leverage Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): IDEs such as Visual Studio Code, PhpStorm, and NetBeans offer robust features like code completion, debugging, and project management tailored for PHP development. They can significantly improve your coding speed and accuracy.
Utilize Composer: Composer is a dependency manager for PHP that simplifies the process of installing and managing libraries and packages. It’s an essential tool for modern development and works seamlessly on Windows.

The Quest for Native-Like PHP Development Introducing WSL2: Bridging the Gap The Evolution of WSL2

Setting Up Your Development Environment

Enabling WSL2 and Virtual Machine Platform Selecting and Installing a Linux Distribution Configuring System Software for Development Installing Symfony CLI for PHP Applications Adding Symfony Local Web Server

Creating a Development Environment Verifying the Linux Environment Installing Additional Dependencies Setting Up a Database for Symfony Applications Running Symfony Applications

Accessing and Developing with WSL2 Accessing and Managing Files Exploring the Possibilities

Conclusion

WSL2: A Game-Changer for Development on Windows Extending Your Development Environment Towards a Seamless Development Experience on Windows

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Design and Development

How to Install PHP on Any Server (Linux, macOS, Windows)

September 11, 2023

8 min read

How to Install PHP on Any Server (Linux, macOS, Windows)

Comprehensive Guide to Installing PHP for WordPress Development Subtitle: Mastering the Installation of PHP for Your Server and WordPress Setup 1. Introduction to PHP Installation Setting up a server can be a daunting task, especially when installing languages like PHP. If you want to get a WordPress test server up and running, it’s a necessary […]

Comprehensive Guide to Installing PHP for WordPress Development

Subtitle: Mastering the Installation of PHP for Your Server and WordPress Setup

1. Introduction to PHP Installation Setting up a server can be a daunting task, especially when installing languages like PHP. If you want to get a WordPress test server up and running, it’s a necessary skill to learn.

2. Understanding PHP and Its Significance Learn what PHP is and why it’s crucial for web development. Discover its server-side functionality and seamless integration with HTML, making it an excellent choice for web development projects, especially for beginners.

3. Why Your Server Needs PHP Explore the importance of PHP for running WordPress, as it powers essential functions, themes, and plugins. Understand how PHP is a stepping stone for both beginners and aspiring WordPress developers.

4. PHP Prerequisites for Your Server Before diving into PHP installation, ensure your server meets the necessary prerequisites. This section covers the basic requirements for Linux, Windows, and macOS systems, providing guidance on server setup.

5. Downloading and Selecting the Right PHP Version Learn where and how to download PHP safely, emphasizing the significance of obtaining it from official sources. Understand which PHP version to choose, considering factors like stability and WordPress compatibility.

6. Installing PHP on Different Operating Systems Detailed installation guides for Linux, Windows, and macOS. Step-by-step instructions for each OS, including command-line usage and package managers for Linux distributions.

7. Exploring PHP Extensions Discover the world of PHP extensions, essential add-ons that enhance PHP’s functionality. Learn about extensions like Apache, .NET, and MySQLi, and how to enable them for optimal performance.

8. Conclusion and Next Steps Summarize the key takeaways from this comprehensive guide and encourage readers to take their PHP and WordPress development skills to the next level. Provide additional resources and tools for further exploration.

This 1000-word guide breaks down the PHP installation process, making it accessible for beginners while also offering valuable insights for advanced developers. By following the steps outlined in this guide, readers can confidently set up PHP for WordPress development on various server configurations.

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Remote Web Developer vs Freelance Web Developer: Pros and Cons

Choosing Between Freelance Web Developers and Full-time Remote Developers: Pros and Cons

1. Understanding Remote Developers

2. The Role of Freelance Developers

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Freelance Developer

Cons of Hiring a Freelancer

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Remote Web Developer

Cons of Hiring Remotely

Conclusion

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Achieving Financial Freedom: A Comprehensive Guide to Debt Reduction with a Side Hustle

1. Crafting a Comprehensive Budget

2. Setting Tangible Goals

3. Managing Expectations with Loved Ones

4. Staying Organized

5. Maintaining Focus and Motivation

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IS WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT COST A CAPITAL EXPENSE?

Navigating the Complex World of Taxation for Small Businesses

The Enigma of Capital Expenses

Web and Mobile Development: Taxing Questions

Untangling Business Expenses for Taxation

Tax Implications of Website and App Development

Navigating the Ambiguities: Other Considerations

The Complexity of Capital Expenses

The Case for Website as a Capital Expense

Operational Expenses: The Day-to-Day Costs

In-House vs. Third-Party Development

The Ambiguity of Marketing and Advertising Expenses

Marketing and Advertising Expenses: A Gray Area

Navigating the Taxation Maze: A Recap

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How Do You Book a Capitalized Software Journal Entry?

Exploring Software Capitalization in Accounting

1. Software Capitalization: What Qualifies?

1.1 Internal Use Software

2. Dealing with Abandoned Software

3. Tax Considerations

4. External Use Software

4.1 Pre-Technological Feasibility

4.2 Technological Feasibility

4.3 Available for Sale

5. Capitalization Journal Entries

5.1 Data Gathering

5.2 Journal Entry Details

Journal Entry 1 (To capitalize software internally developed during June 2020):

6. Additional Considerations

7. Reconciliation

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Unlocking Business Value: The Significance of Software Capitalization

The Essentials of Software Capitalization

Maximizing Business Potential

Overcoming Hurdles

A Roadmap to Effective Capitalization

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Streamlining Your WordPress Deployment Workflow