Joomla! 5.x: The pros and cons of extensions lurking in the evolving CMS

Alaudae.JP site completely migrated to Joomla! 5.x!
Now that I've finished this, I'd like to talk about my thoughts on Joomla! for the first time in a while.

If you find the extensions that suit you, it's a CMS that even beginners can use.
I think Joomla! 5.x is an easy-to-use version for both beginners and those migrating, as long as you choose the extensions that suit you. Some of the extensions I have used so far have continued to be used, but there are many that I gave up on along the way. I also came across some great features that made me wonder "why I hadn't used them before?" Thanks to these, my work efficiency has improved dramatically. Conversely, there are some features that I used a lot that I completely stopped using in Joomla! 5.x.

Tips for choosing extensions: Paid ones are better than free ones
When I choose a Joomla! extension, I always use the paid version unless I'm trying it out. The reason is that the free version does not guarantee full functionality or security. If you like a feature, the paid version has better support and you can expect continuous updates by supporting the developer.

No problem with automatic translation for Japanese
Most of the extensions are not available in Japanese. Therefore, you need to translate them yourself, but the accuracy of automatic translation has improved dramatically in recent years, so it can be done without any problems. Even for me, who has zero English skills, automatic translation is an essential item.

Is Japanese localization a problem? Comparison with WordPress
Due to the hassle of localizing to Japanese, some people may find the Japanese version of WordPress, which has many Japanese users, more appealing. However, there are cases where Joomla! allows things that WordPress cannot. If you have a site with only a few pages, you may not need a CMS function, but if you plan to increase the number of pages in the future or are considering changing to a membership-based or paid site, Joomla! makes the migration process easier.

Eight years with Joomla!: Hoping for continued evolution
It's been about 8-9 years since I started using Joomla!, and I think I'll probably continue using it as long as I use the Internet. My skills and the evolution of Joomla! are a perfect match.

Now, on to the next task!
With the site migration now complete, we will continue to move the Alaudae.JP project forward.