A purpose-built WordPress portfolio focused on reusable architecture: Custom Post Types for Projects, ACF-driven fields, and Elementor Pro theme templates. Service pages were retired to remove distractions and put the spotlight on case studies and real outcomes.
Project Summary
Fueled by my entrepreneurial mindset, interest in passive income, and ongoing work in affiliate marketing, I rebuilt my site around a dedicated Projects custom post type using Advanced Custom Fields and Elementor Pro. Each project runs on a single, reusable template: the main story sits in the content area while the left sidebar dynamically displays role, tech stack, tools, KPIs, and links via ACF. I also tightened up the backend by configuring SSH access and securing the server’s root login, ensuring better control over deployments and site integrity. A central portfolio hub pulls in projects automatically, so adding new work is quick, consistent, and completely layout-free.
The Problem
My old site structure blurred the lines between blog posts, service pages, and portfolio work, making it harder for visitors (and search engines) to understand my focus. I wanted a lean, SEO-friendly system built for showcasing projects that reflect my interest in scalable, self-sustaining ventures like affiliate marketing—without the clutter of unnecessary page types or repetitive formatting.
The Solution
- Created a Projects custom post type to separate portfolio items from blog content.
- Defined an ACF field group (role, type, duration, tech stack, tools, impact, link arrays) to power a dynamic sidebar.
- Built a single-project template in Elementor Pro (Theme Builder) with conditional sections and clean typography.
- Designed a portfolio hub that queries Projects and updates automatically as new items are published.
- Moved service pages to draft to keep the user journey focused on work and outcomes.
Technical Breakdown
- Content Model: CPT registered via ACF; archive optional; portfolio hub uses a grid that queries CPT items.
- Fields: ACF Text, Select, Repeater, Image, and Link (array) for sidebar data and dynamic buttons.
- Templates: Elementor Pro single template for Projects; global styles; responsive layout; conditional display for empty fields.
- Ordering: Optional numeric ACF field or Post Types Order plugin to control display without changing dates.
- Performance & SEO: LiteSpeed Cache, compressed media, Rank Math for titles/meta; clean slugs and internal linking.
Results
- Faster publishing workflow: add fields, paste narrative, publish.
- Consistent case study layout with less manual formatting.
- Clearer SEO signals by separating portfolio items from posts and removing service-page clutter.
Planned Improvements
- Add a filterable portfolio (by tech, industry) using CPT taxonomies.
- Introduce lightweight microdata on project pages for richer snippets.
