{"id":155038,"date":"2024-12-19T13:50:36","date_gmt":"2024-12-19T19:50:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/?p=155038"},"modified":"2025-05-14T13:33:43","modified_gmt":"2025-05-14T18:33:43","slug":"wp-engine-year-in-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/case-studies\/wp-engine-year-in-review\/","title":{"rendered":"WP Engine: 2024 in Review"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>2024 was a year of growth and innovation for WP Engine, our partners, our products, and our people.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Throughout the year, we introduced new tools and enhancements designed to supercharge our customers\u2019 sites, streamline their workflows, and empower their businesses to thrive. Guided by our <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/honoring-our-past-with-an-eye-towards-the-future-wp-engines-core-values\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Core Values<\/a>, we launched innovative products, strengthened partnerships, completed strategic acquisitions, and welcomed new leaders\u2014all with the goal of helping you build incredible websites with unmatched performance and support.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As we look ahead to 2025, let\u2019s take a moment to reflect on the strides we made together in 2024 and celebrate the progress that will set the stage for an even brighter future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Empowering success through product and feature innovations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At WP Engine, our primary goal is to empower our customers with the best platform, tools, and workflows to make building on WordPress easier, faster, safer, and more accessible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To that end, our team released several new products and features throughout the year and delivered updates to many existing offerings our customers already love. Here\u2019s a look at the highlights:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe class=\"youtube-video\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/K6bw_pp5Z1U?si=rqFfnf-iKPldc4ea\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dynamic plugin loading<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/introducing-dynamic-plugin-loading\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dynamic plugin loading<\/a>, available on all <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/woocommerce\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">WP Engine eCommerce hosting plans<\/a>, optimizes site performance by selectively loading plugins only on pages where they\u2019re needed. This targeted approach reduces unnecessary bloat, decreasing page size by more than 30% on average and improving key metrics like Core Web Vitals and Time to First Byte.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Launched this month, this feature speeds up page load times and has the potential to greatly improve user experiences, boost search engine rankings, and increase conversions. It\u2019s easy to set up via the WP Engine User Portal and allows for customizable rules to maintain compatibility with essential tools.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic plugin loading is <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/ecommerce-solution\/#Dynamic_Plugin_Loading\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">an ideal solution<\/a> for eCommerce store owners looking to deliver a faster, more efficient, and more scalable experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe class=\"youtube-video\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/oRMZveC495Y?si=dC2oOIqrUQY3_6n2\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Page Speed Boost<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Released in June, <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/page-speed-boost\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Page Speed Boost<\/a> is a powerful addition to WP Engine\u2019s platform that leverages <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marketing.nitropack.io\/nitropack-oneclick\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NitroPack OneClick<\/a> to dramatically improve website loading speeds and optimize Core Web Vitals. By streamlining code, optimizing images, and prioritizing key scripts, Page Speed Boost simplifies the complexities of frontend performance optimization, leading to improved SEO rankings, higher conversions, and better user experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It also enables up to <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/boost-pagespeed-scores-in-minutes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">60% faster load times<\/a>, reduces plugin bloat, and works seamlessly across desktop and mobile platforms. With just one click in the <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/wp-engine-user-portal\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">WP Engine User Portal<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/page-speed-boost\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Page Speed Boost<\/a> eliminates the need for technical expertise, making it an accessible solution for marketers and developers alike.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Real-world results include significant improvements in metrics like Largest Contentful Paint and Total Blocking Time, making it a game-changer for creating faster, more engaging websites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe class=\"youtube-video\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/RcfegWHsXFM?si=PBpUK8N_9p5MkFzf\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Smart Search AI<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/smart-search\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Smart Search AI<\/a> is WP Engine&#8217;s advanced search solution. Released in April, it leverages machine learning and natural language processing to deliver fast, accurate, and highly relevant search results on WordPress sites. By interpreting user intent, even with vague or misspelled queries, it ensures visitors quickly find what they need, reducing frustration and boosting conversions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike traditional search solutions, Smart Search AI offloads search queries to an external server to maintain peak site performance, even during high traffic. <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/decode-2024-wordpress-search-ai-magic\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Its features<\/a>, including semantic search, advanced query processing, and custom filters, make search intuitive and user-friendly while enhancing SEO and user engagement.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With simple installation and competitive pricing, <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/wp-engine-smart-search\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Smart Search AI<\/a> has already transformed the search experience in 2024, improving user experiences and driving business growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Stripe Checkout integration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Released in March, <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/elevate-woocommerce-stripe-checkout-integration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">WP Engine\u2019s Stripe Checkout integration<\/a> streamlines the checkout process for eCommerce stores on our platform by offering a secure, frictionless, and customizable payment experience.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The integration optimizes conversions by reducing the steps needed to complete a purchase. It also supports more than 135 currencies and simplifies regulatory compliance by offloading sensitive payment data to Stripe\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pcisecuritystandards.org\/standards\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PCI DSS<\/a>-validated servers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Features like automatic currency conversion, fraud detection, and support for popular payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay enhance global accessibility and shopper confidence.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This integration even allows you to fully customize the branding of your checkout experience to ensure seamless shopping. It\u2019s easy to <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/ecommerce-solution\/#Stripe_Checkout\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">set up in the User Portal<\/a> and available for all WP Engine eCommerce plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Performance Insights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/introducing-performance-insights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Performance Insights<\/a>, a new feature introduced this year in WP Engine&#8217;s User Portal, provides a centralized dashboard for monitoring key frontend metrics, including Core Web Vitals, Speed Index, and Time to First Byte.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These metrics help customers assess site speed, usability, and overall site performance, offering actionable insights to improve user experiences and search engine rankings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By consolidating critical data and benchmarks <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/google-pagespeed-insights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">in one location<\/a>, Performance Insights eliminates the need to pull reports from multiple tools, saving time and enabling focused, data-driven decision-making. The feature also includes a &#8220;Performance Opportunities&#8221; section that highlights specific areas for improvement with estimated benefits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For WP Engine customers, this streamlined reporting tool empowers proactive site maintenance to enhance engagement, conversions, and overall site success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Willa: WP Engine\u2019s live chat support&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to the new tools and features listed above, we also welcomed a new member to the WP Engine support team this year, and she\u2019s already helped thousands of customers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Say hello to <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/virtual-assistant\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Willa P. Engine, Support Concierge<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This helpful, AI-powered support agent is designed to quickly connect you with our extensive <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">support resources<\/a>. Willa can be found by opening a chat in the User Portal, and she\u2019ll happily help you find the right documentation or connect you with one of her human teammates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Slow Query Monitor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>April also saw the introduction of <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/introducing-slow-query-monitor\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Slow Query Monitor (SQM)<\/a>: a performance optimization feature included in all WP Engine <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/woocommerce\/\/#plans\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Core and Enterprise eCommerce plans<\/a>. It continuously logs and identifies slow database queries, highlighting problematic plugins, themes, or scripts that may be impacting site performance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike traditional monitoring tools, SQM operates seamlessly in the background without slowing your site and provides actionable insights through detailed reports accessible via the <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/ecommerce-solution\/#Slow_Query_Monitor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">WP Engine dashboard<\/a>. The tool simplifies the process of resolving bottlenecks, helping eCommerce store owners and developers quickly address performance issues that could affect conversions and user experiences.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With no setup required, SQM enhances site speed and ensures smooth operation, complementing WP Engine\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/ecommerce-solution\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">suite of eCommerce optimization tools<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Edge Full Page Cache<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/faster-site-speed-edge-full-page-cache\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Edge Full Page Cache<\/a> (EPFC) is WP Engine&#8217;s advanced caching solution for customers on our <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/network\/#Advanced_Network\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Advanced Network.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Launched in September, EFPC is designed to improve server response times by up to 90%, delivering faster, smoother user experiences by caching static HTML and leveraging Cloudflare\u2019s CDN. By storing site content closer to your end users, EFPC reduces data travel time and improves key metrics like Time to First Byte.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a simple toggle activation in the WP Engine User Portal, EFPC provides a powerful, hassle-free way to <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/cache\/#Edge_Full_Page_Cache\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">enhance website performance<\/a> and meet user demand for fast, reliable digital experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Local version 8.3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>March also brought about <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/go-live-with-local-8-3\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Local version 8.3<\/a> which enhances the experience of connecting <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/local\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Local<\/a> to WP Engine and simplifies site deployment between environments.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This most recent update to Local offers streamlined controls for selecting which files or databases are moved between local and live sites to boost developer workflow efficiency.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By improving reliability and ease of use, <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/support\/\/local\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Local 8.3<\/a> ensures a more seamless transition from development to production environments, enhancing productivity and reducing deployment complexity for WP Engine customers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each of these 2024 innovations and updates underscores our continued commitment to making WordPress easier to use and more seamless for the countless agencies, businesses, and developers who are building state-of-the-art digital experiences and charting the future of the web.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"540\" height=\"282\" src=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/BlogBanner-1200x627-Horizontal@2x-1024x535-1-540x282.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155041\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/case-studies\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/BlogBanner-1200x627-Horizontal@2x-1024x535-1-540x282.png 540w, https:\/\/wpengine.com\/case-studies\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/BlogBanner-1200x627-Horizontal@2x-1024x535-1-768x401.png 768w, https:\/\/wpengine.com\/case-studies\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/BlogBanner-1200x627-Horizontal@2x-1024x535-1.png 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Infusing performance excellence through a strategic acquisition<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In July, <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/wp-engine-acquires-nitropack\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">WP Engine acquired NitroPack<\/a>, an all-in-one SaaS solution for improving site speed and performance metrics. In the short time since, NitroPack\u2019s powerful performance optimizations have greatly enhanced our already robust suite of web performance solutions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With NitroPack\u2019s technology, we are providing customers with faster load times and increased mobile performance, helping to enhance their SEO visibility and the experiences of their end users.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This acquisition strengthens our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, customer-focused solutions for WordPress builders and site owners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Honing our voice through a brand relaunch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In May, WP Engine <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/introducing-the-new-wp-engine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">refreshed the look and feel of our brand<\/a>\u2019s creative elements to better reflect our mission, culture, and values.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The refreshed identity is built on a research-driven strategy that also identified the four pillars of our business success:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Elevated expertise: <\/strong>We leverage our expertise to help educate and support our customers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>People-focused culture: <\/strong>We empower our employees to bring their best skills and ideas to the table.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Relentless innovation: <\/strong>We continuously optimize our offerings to build the best, most useful products for the developers and agencies who choose us.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unmatched performance: <\/strong>We aim to be the single best hosting provider for WordPress sites globally.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The new visual and content standards set forth through this brand refresh create a more cohesive and intuitive experience across our suite of products, reinforcing these brand pillars as well as our commitment to empowering WordPress users with polished, modern solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find out more about what went into our brand refresh <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/our-brand-refresh-behind-the-scenes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Celebrating and facilitating customer success<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As always, we also took time throughout the year to highlight <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/case-studies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">some of the WP Engine partners and customers<\/a> who are creating innovative, exceptional digital experiences on our platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, WP Engine Agency Partner <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/agency-directory\/noble-studios\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Noble Studios<\/a> chose our managed platform as the foundation for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.yosemite.com\/about-tourism-bureau\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau<\/a> (YMCTB)\u2019s digital home. The redesigned and re-platformed site led to a notable 17.1% decrease in bounce rate, as well as increases in overall site traffic and lodging referrals. The new site also earned Noble Studios the title of Creative Partner of the Year as part of our inaugural <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/celebrating-wordpress-excellence-agency-partner-awards-launch\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Agency Partner Awards<\/a> in February!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, leading virtual assistant services provider <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/case-studies\/wing-assistant-customer-story\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wing Assistant<\/a> migrated to our managed hosting platform to elevate their own site experience. Leveraging our advanced caching, built-in CDN, and scalable infrastructure, the team saw a 493% increase in site traffic and a 146% increase in engagement time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/crafted-with-code-performance-showcase\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Crafted With Code showcase<\/a>, created in partnership with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.webbyawards.com\/crafted-with-code\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Webby Awards<\/a>, also spotlighted some of the fastest, most performant WordPress sites hosted on WP Engine\u2019s platform this year. Each recognized site serves as an example of how WordPress can be leveraged to create digital experiences that are fast, responsive, and robust enough to meet the demands of today\u2019s internet users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And with new functionality and a refreshed look for our <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/agency-directory\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Agency Partner Directory<\/a>, we\u2019re now able to connect our Agency Partner Program members with even more brands and businesses looking to take on new projects. The page helps facilitate direct lead generation and enhances SEO for our partners by driving traffic back to their websites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How to fix a site you didn\u2019t build for optimal performance\" width=\"1160\" height=\"653\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ukW1D_cv7co?list=PLUIctPjPADH9FEACrMbz-62YwkJ5c3aEc\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Driving digital adoption through education<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Staying on the cutting edge of digital innovation is essential for designers, developers, and agencies as they attempt to create more beautiful, performant, and user-friendly experiences year after year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>WP Engine helped facilitate some of that education in many ways, the first of which was through our all-virtual <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/wp-engine-decode-2024-whats-next-in-modern-web-development\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DE{CODE}<\/a> conference, held in March.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Serving as our fifth consecutive developer conference since 2019, DE{CODE} 2024 brought together thought leaders and experts from across the WordPress ecosystem to discuss emerging trends, tools, and strategies for success. Topics included everything from <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/decode-2024-fix-a-site-you-didnt-build\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">how to fix a site you didn\u2019t build<\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/decode-2024-fine-tuning-with-acf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">fine-tuning your site with ACF<\/a> to strategies for <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/decode-2024-keep-cwv-scores-green-inp-prep\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">keeping your Core Web Vitals in the green<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We also hosted multiple webinars throughout the year. These sessions helped customers stay up to date with our <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/webinar-2025-product-roadmap\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">product roadmap<\/a> and vision for the future, learn more about <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/webinar-ai-impact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AI&#8217;s impact<\/a> on site creation and optimization, explore <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/webinar-wordpress-for-media-and-publishing-sites\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">industry-specific strategies for digital success<\/a>, and glean insights into the <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/webinar-2025-agency-predictions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">trends and challenges agencies will face<\/a> in the new year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, our in-depth research in 2024 explored many of the topics affecting modern WordPress users\u2014from <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/solidifying-your-seo-strategy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SEO strategies<\/a> to the current <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/resources\/the-state-of-headless-global-research-report\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">state of headless WordPress adoption<\/a>\u2014and our ACF team\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.advancedcustomfields.com\/annual-survey\/2024-results\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">annual survey<\/a> provided high-level insights into how users are employing ACF in their workflows. This information will be vital to our future efforts as we continue to expand and optimize our tools and offerings to best meet the needs of our customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Investing in our culture and people<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, 2024 was a year of increased investment in our own company culture, our people, and the communities in which we live and work.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is evidenced first (and most often) by our many <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/great-place-to-work-certification-nation-day\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Great Place to Work recognitions<\/a> throughout the year. We know that when employees are given the freedom and flexibility to do their best work, they will meet and often exceed expectations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our bi-annual hackathons also provided opportunities for employees to try new things, build new skills, work with different teammates, and explore new ideas. In 2024, WP Engine hackathon participants built new custom dashboards, <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/hackathon-slashathon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">found ways to optimize server performance<\/a>, and even <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/summer-hackathon-2024\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">taught some animals to play music<\/a>! (Sorta.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employees also used their time and talents to give back to their communities in creative ways, <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/new-business-partner-of-the-year-united-way-midlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">earning recognition from local charities<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/freedom-to-create-with-a-purpose-rise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">raising money for the causes they care about<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We also took some time to introduce the world to<a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/women-in-engineering-day-2024\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> a few of the people<\/a> who keep our engine humming along. Most recently, we\u2019ve been shining a light on some of the change-makers and innovators throughout our ranks with the introduction of our <a href=\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/blog\/tag\/meet-the-experts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Meet the Experts<\/a> series.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We can\u2019t wait to introduce you to even more of the humans behind our success in the new year!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Powering your success in the new year and beyond<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019re brimming with ideas for new ways to offer our customers breakthrough innovations and more optimizations to help drive even more success in the new year!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thank you for continuing to trust us with your digital future\u2014we\u2019re excited to continue learning, growing, and innovating alongside some of the best companies and builders in WordPress!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>2024 was a year of growth and innovation for WP Engine, our partners, our products, and our people.&nbsp; Throughout the year, we introduced new tools and enhancements designed to supercharge our customers\u2019 sites, streamline their workflows, and empower their businesses to thrive. 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