We receive daily requests for advice on how to select WordPress plugins. While we undoubtedly have favorites, we are unable to keep track of them all due to the vast size of the WordPress plugin repository. More than 60,000 plugins are presently available in the WordPress.org repository, and that number does not include any premium plugins! Therefore, it can be like trying to find a needle in a haystack when you are trying to find the best plugin in a particular category. Fortunately, we don’t have to keep up with every change and addition made to WordPress.org in order to locate a reliable plugin when the time comes. The greatest WordPress plugins for your website may be found in five simple steps.
Here are five easy steps to help you select the right WordPress plugins for your needs.
Step 1: Define Your Needs
Before going ahead with your plugin repository. You need to take a moment to outline and highlight the required functionalities. It is important to have prior knowledge of the essential features and functionalities that you may require in the future. Well, you are not sure what to prefer? We will help you out. If you are looking to enhance SEO and want to add social media integration? If so then you need to enhance the standard of security and need to optimize your website speed as well. With the proper clarification of your goals, you can easily narrow down your further search and you can primarily focus on plugins that will directly address your needs.
Step 2: Research and Compare Plugins
When you understand what you need, begin your thorough research relevant to plugins that will surely fit into those essential criteria. As per the update, WordPress.org has numerous and comprehensive plugin directories to offer, but make sure to not limit or bind yourself with that availability. It is crucial to explore third-party reviews, blogs, and other forums to collect more important information or insights from other existing users.
Moreover, you can go ahead with the comparisons to make better choices in terms of features, usability, and performance. The major key aspects to compare include functionality, ease of use, support, and documentation.
Step 3: Check Ratings and Reviews
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, take a closer look at user ratings and reviews. High ratings and positive feedback are good indicators of a reliable plugin. Conversely, be cautious of plugins with low ratings or numerous complaints about bugs or lack of support. Pay attention to the date of the reviews; recent feedback is more relevant, as plugins evolve.
Step 4: Evaluate Compatibility and Updates
Before the installation of any plugin, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with your version of WordPress and others. Make sure to check the plugin details to get all the latest updates. There are frequent changes in terms of functions and features that need attention every time and changes if required. These essential updates help to keep your website secure and running smoothly without any hassle. Additionally, verify the plugin’s compatibility based on your theme for better outcomes.
Step 5: Test in a Staging Environment
After selecting a few potential plugins, consider testing them in a staging environment first. This allows you to see how they perform without affecting your live site. Create a backup of your site, install the plugins, and assess their impact on performance, usability, and overall site speed. This step is crucial for avoiding conflicts and ensuring that the plugins enhance rather than hinder your website’s functionality.
Conclusion
Choosing the right and effective WordPress plugins can be a challenging task, but becomes easy to make informed decisions using given steps. With the right tools in place, you can create a dynamic and engaging WordPress site that meets your objectives. Get instant help from our professional experts to get valuable insights and options.