How to effectively handle the problem of installing WordPress locally for each new project?

Question

I waste a lot of time installing WordPress then populating it with dummy stuff for each new project. I started creating a new theme for each project (instead of creating a whole new install) but it's not good either since each project has its own specifics in terms of content.

Is there a time-saving, professional solution for this problem?

Answer 1

I run a multisite setup for developing, it saves time and you can just delete the sub-site when you're done developing.

I also have a few different .xml files of common content types that I tend to use a lot (Portfolio items, Standard pages / posts, Testimonials, etc.) and I just import each one as and when I need it.

Answer 2

By creating a multi-site installation.