Wordpress 101: Widgets and Plugins Explained
12.15.09
2-Tip Tuesday
If you’re using Wordpress, you will be adding “plug-ins” and “widgets” to your site.
If you’re not familiar with these terms, it can be a little confusing. So, let’s get rid of the confusion and shed some light on these terms.
First, let’s focus attention on Plug-Ins.
What is a Plug-In?
A plug-in can be added to your Wordpress platform to extend or broaden the functionality of Wordpress. Typically, a plug-in makes changes on the back-end of your Wordpress website that you can see across your entire platform.
For example, one of the plug-ins that a lot of people are now using is called TweetMeme. Once the TweetMeme plug-in is installed, a “Retweet” button will appear on every blog post. There are also options available for the TweetMeme plug-in allowing you to customize where the button will automatically appear within your site.
What is a Widget?
Wordpress Widgets are similar to plugins in that they can add to the functionality of your site. However, widgets are managed on the Widget section of your website and arrange the information displayed in your sidebar(s) without having to make any code alterations.
For example, TweetRoll is a Widget that allows you to place your tweets in your sidebar for your visitors to see. Way cool!
I’ll be back next week with a couple more tips for using Wordpress.
In the meantime, build a BUZZ about your business!
Deidre Hughey
I think you should give news on the subject more often
Anyway, once a again a great post and worth a bookmark and from me thank you.
Good posting. I am glad you posting that. Please accept my for my weak English writing, I am from Germany and it is somehat new to me.
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