Recently, I set myself a challenge to build a WordPress website in just 30 minutes using the block editor, and I documented the entire process on YouTube. The idea behind the WordPress Speed Build Challenge is to demonstrate how much you can accomplish within a tight timeframe and showcase the block editor’s capabilities when under pressure. As someone who’s been working with WordPress for over two decades, I thought it would be a fun experiment—and a bit of a training exercise for myself too!
The Setup
The challenge was simple: build a pre-determined website design in 30 minutes using the WordPress block editor. To speed things up, I used InstaWP to quickly deploy the WordPress environment, preloaded with a few assets like images and content. This saved me a lot of time on setup, allowing me to focus solely on building the layout.
Block Editor Proficiency
One of the key takeaways from this challenge was how essential it is to be familiar with the WordPress block editor if you’re trying to build something quickly. I’ve spent countless hours in the editor, but even I felt the pressure when the clock was ticking. The block editor allows for a lot of flexibility with features like pre-built templates, block duplication, and group blocks. These tools were invaluable for getting a functional site up and running in such a short time.
The Challenge
The real test of the challenge was not just building the site but doing so within a tight deadline. This 30-minute constraint forced me to think fast, prioritise tasks, and make quick decisions on design and layout. While it was certainly fun, I have to admit, it was far from perfect. I’d rate myself a solid 6 out of 10 on this one!
I focused on the core structure—header, content sections, and footer—and tried to make use of global styles to maintain consistency. But the finer details, the little design flourishes that take a site from functional to fantastic, had to take a back seat due to the time constraints.
Takeaways and Workflow
In the video, I demonstrate several techniques to help speed up site building:
- Pre-built templates: Using these allowed me to get a basic structure in place fast.
- Block duplication: A real lifesaver when you need to replicate elements across the site.
- Global style adjustments: This helped me maintain consistency across the layout without spending too much time on individual blocks.
While these tools are great for building efficiently, they can only take you so far in a 30-minute build. There were moments when I found myself sacrificing design quality for speed, but that’s part of the challenge!
Announcing the Live Speed Build Challenge
If you enjoyed watching my attempt at the WordPress Speed Build Challenge, why not join me for a live version? I’m hosting a WordPress meetup in Cheltenham, UK, on 16th October 2024, where we’ll be running a live Speed Build Challenge. Two contenders will go head-to-head, each trying to build a nominated site within 30 minutes. It’s a fun, fast-paced event, and it’s a great way to learn and share tips on how to work effectively with the block editor.
Whether you’re a seasoned WordPress user or just starting out, this is a fantastic opportunity to test your skills, pick up some new techniques, and meet other WordPress enthusiasts.
WordPress Speed Build Challenge Conclusion
The Speed Build Challenge was a valuable exercise for me. It tested my ability to work quickly and make snap decisions, all while using the block editor. It’s not just about how fast you can build but also about how resourceful and efficient you can be. While there were definite limitations due to time, I think it’s a fun way to explore the block editor’s potential.
If you’re curious to see how it all went down, be sure to check out the video on my YouTube channel. And if you think you can beat my time, come join the live event in Cheltenham—you might just surprise yourself!
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