Stats & Facts Methodology

At WP Symposium Pro, trust is the foundation of everything we publish. Our “Stats & Facts” articles are designed to give readers reliable insights into WordPress, the wider CMS market, plugins, themes, hosting, and related technologies. We don’t just collect numbers—we carefully research, verify, and present them so developers, site owners, and businesses can make informed decisions.

Where Our Data Comes From

We prioritize primary, verifiable sources. That means official WordPress.org and WooCommerce statistics, Automattic and Jetpack data, hosting company transparency reports, peer-reviewed industry research, and reputable technology surveys. When primary sources are unavailable, we turn to established market research firms, credible news outlets, and trusted third-party providers with a track record in the WordPress or web technology space.

Every figure is linked directly to its source, so our readers can verify the data themselves.

What We Include With Each Statistic

Context is crucial in the WordPress ecosystem, where numbers can vary by version, region, or plugin type. For each statistic, we include the source name, publication or retrieval date, and definitions (for example, what counts as an “active install” or how “market share” was calculated). If multiple respected sources differ, we explain why and provide context to help readers interpret the variation.

Our Citation Style

We cite clearly and consistently. Each reference includes:

  • The source name (e.g., WordPress.org, W3Techs, Statista, hosting provider reports)
  • The title of the dataset, page, or report
  • The publisher or organization
  • The publication date or retrieval date
  • A direct link for verification

We avoid vague claims like “experts say” or “studies show.” Instead, we point you to the data itself so you can confirm it.

Fact-Checking and Review

Accuracy matters—especially when readers are making business or technical decisions based on WordPress data. Every “Stats & Facts” article goes through a two-step editorial process. One researcher compiles and formats the data; another reviewer independently verifies the numbers, checks links, and ensures that summaries are written in clear, practical language.

Our Research Workflow (at a glance)

  1. Collect statistics from WordPress.org, Automattic, or other primary/official sources.
  2. Record full citation details, definitions, and methodology notes.
  3. Cross-check key figures against at least one other reputable source (where available).
  4. Write clear explanations with context specific to WordPress and web publishing.
  5. Run an editorial review for accuracy, clarity, and relevance before publishing.

Updating and Maintenance

The WordPress ecosystem evolves rapidly—plugins gain or lose installs, hosting benchmarks shift, and adoption trends change year by year. We regularly review older “Stats & Facts” articles and replace outdated figures with current ones. Each article shows a “last reviewed” date so you know when it was most recently checked.

Handling Discrepancies and Uncertainty

WordPress data can vary depending on methodology. For example, W3Techs might report different usage figures than BuiltWith or Automattic. In these cases, we analyze definitions and scope before choosing the figure that best represents reality. If the variation is significant, we include both numbers and explain the differences.

Rounding, Units, and Dates

We present data in the clearest format possible without distorting meaning. Active installs are shown in the ranges used by WordPress.org. Market share percentages are rounded only when appropriate. Timeframes (for example, “2024 global hosting survey” or “stats from WordPress.org as of June 2025”) are always included so readers understand exactly what the numbers represent.

Independence and Conflicts of Interest

We do not accept payment or incentives to include specific statistics. If we use data from a company we also review—such as a hosting provider or plugin developer—we disclose that relationship clearly. All statistics must meet our sourcing and verification standards regardless of business relationships.

Corrections and Reader Feedback

If you spot an error or outdated figure, we want to know. Contact us at hello@wpsymposiumpro.com with the page URL and details, and we’ll review it within 48 hours. If a correction is made, we update the article and note material changes transparently.

Why This Matters

The WordPress community thrives on openness and reliability. By applying strict research standards—sourcing carefully, citing transparently, verifying rigorously, and updating regularly—we aim to provide a trustworthy reference point for developers, site owners, and businesses navigating the WordPress ecosystem.