As WordPress developer at SimpleMediaCode.com I came to point where I have to decide: make some functions as WordPress theme features or make them more optional and theme independent as WordPress plugins.
WordPress plugin coding
If I create plugin for WordPress theme, I am hardening that, so that this function will make sure, that futures are theme independent, if for some reason someone would like to change WordPress theme. In this case, if function is displaying content for private reading (for membership pages), it will still available in other themes as well.
Pluses by developing WordPress plugin:
- WordPress theme theme independent,
- cross theme usage,
- more freedom to turn on and off.
Minus(es):
- harder to implement in theme
WordPress theme feature coding
But if You are using only one theme for site (custom design for site), I’m sure You can make functions as features for WordPress theme. This is good for specific placement of information, like sidebars or footer information.
WP theme feature pluses:
- good support of WordPress theme hacks and hooks,
- compatible with WordPress theme.
Minus(es):
- sometimes theme administrations panel can come with too much options
So, before creating WordPress theme options page, think about plugin replacements!
There are many more pros and cons… What’s Yours?
Dexter
#19
Nice, post. I’m also a WordPress theme developer so I understand your point.
Now, what you think in the case of developing themes for massive release?, in that case Theme Features would be better cause they offer more power to the theme, but in the other hand: offering a theme with a set of plugins and widgets can also be a very powerful option. Any opinion?
Regards.
Rolands Umbrovskis
#20
:)
About themes and plugins: look at MailPress plugin. It’s plugin WITH plugins. Most of them are optional. There is big misunderstanding about “I have Top WordPress theme” and “I need WordPress theme that can do X,Y,Z”.