WordPress Plugins can do everything except clean your kitchen sink, it seems (and I hear they’ve started working on that one). Some plugins do wonderful things; others, not so much. And some plugins used to do wonderful things, but not any more.
How do you find the good ones? Research. And then more research. But where to start?
First, search for potential plugins by accessing the search box that appears on your plugin page. Then, check each plugin to see how many downloads the plugin has received. Also, check to see how many stars it has earned.
Your next step is to check the plugins out on the web. You can use search terms like “best backup plugins” or “best contact form plugins” to see what others have experienced.
Try talking with your friends to see if they have used the plugin you are considering. WordPress is becoming pretty common; you might be surprised by what you find.
In the end, if you want the plugin, you’ll have to take the plunge. Download the plugin and then click ACTIVATE. You will see the plugin appear on the left, possibly under the SETTINGS link.
You can adjust the settings (if they exist).
Be sure to update your plugins the same way you update your version of Wordpress.
Questions? Contact Christopher Merrill.
