Navigating the Unknown: Inheriting a Company Website with No Technical Expertise

Inheriting a small business can be both a rewarding and daunting experience, especially when it comes to managing a website that is crucial for its online presence. Recently, I encountered a particularly challenging situation: my boss passed away and left his company to me, along with a website that feels more like an enigma than a useful tool.

While I possess some passwords and leads, my technological skill set is rather limited. A pressing concern for me now is identifying the platform used for the company’s website. Is it built on a well-known content management system like WordPress or Wix? Or, has it been constructed from scratch using HTML that requires custom access?

I’ve attempted to use various tools available online to trace the content management system (CMS) employed for the site, but to no avail. The website itself is quite outdated and lacks the user-friendly aesthetic one might expect from popular platforms—leading me to believe that it may have been handmade by my boss himself with basic HTML skills.

The next obstacle lies in the technicality of editing this patchwork creation. I’m familiar with HTML, but I’m at a loss about how to access the backend. For example, when using a platform like Wix, I would simply log in at Wix.com, but this situation feels more complex and obscure. How do I proceed to utilize the login credentials I have in order to manage or revamp the existing site?

If you find yourself in a similar situation, it’s essential to take a step back and approach the task methodically. Here are a few actionable steps to consider:

1. Identify the Hosting Provider: Start by checking where the website is hosted. This can often be determined by performing a WHOIS lookup, which may provide you with the hosting details and potentially help access the management backend.

2. Gather Information from Existing Resources: Look for any documentation or notes left by the previous owner. This might include login details or relevant notes about the website structure.

3. Reach Out for Technical Assistance: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to consult with web developers or IT professionals. They can quickly assess the website’s framework and guide you through the necessary steps for access.

4. Consider Revamping the Site: If the website is as outdated as it appears, it may be a good opportunity to modernize its look and functionality. Platforms like WordPress offer user-friendly interfaces and extensive resources for