This page documents the tools I currently use to run my WordPress sites and how each component fits into the system.
It is not a comparison guide or a list of the best plugins available. It simply explains the stack I rely on and the role each tool plays.
Each tool solves a specific problem. The goal is a stable website that loads quickly, remains easy to maintain, and avoids unnecessary complexity.
How the Stack Fits Together
The tools I use follow a simple structure:
Theme Foundation
GeneratePress
GeneratePress is the theme I use across my sites. It provides a lightweight foundation and avoids the complexity that comes with heavier multipurpose themes.
WordPress Blocks and Layout
GenerateBlocks
GenerateBlocks handles layout and block structure inside the editor. It allows me to build pages cleanly without relying on heavy page builders.
Performance
Perfmatters
Perfmatters handles performance optimisations such as script management and asset control. It allows unnecessary WordPress features to be disabled and reduces page weight.
Image Optimisation
ShortPixel
ShortPixel manages image compression across the media library. It reduces file size automatically and generates modern formats such as WebP.
SEO
Slim SEO
Slim SEO handles technical SEO tasks such as metadata, sitemaps, and schema while keeping the plugin footprint minimal.
Membership and Access Control
WishList Member
WishList Member is the plugin I use to manage membership access on WordPress.
It controls which content is available to different users and allows specific pages, posts, or resources to be restricted to members.
In practice this allows the site to host private material such as courses, documentation, or subscriber-only resources while still using the standard WordPress editor and publishing workflow.
Why I Keep the Stack Small
WordPress sites become fragile when too many plugins compete for the same responsibility.
I prefer a controlled stack where each tool handles one clear function. The result is a system that remains stable and predictable over time.