And now, for something completely different. Plugin that can be used to create plugins!

Well, I am almost 100% sure that this is one of a kind plugin, and so far I am unaware of any other similar attempt: to created one base (core) class that implements all the standard code needed for a plugin to work. To use this class, extend it, set parameters through constructor, and just concentrate on writing the actual code for the plugin features. Code is tested onlyt with WordPress 2.5 and WordPress 2.6 and older WP versions will not be suported.

Add to that Wizard that can be used to create skeleton for a plugin. Set a bunch of different parameters that describe plugin features, and in a wizard folder (must have write rights) you get folder for the plugin with all needed files, and all the necessary code for start. Such plugin can be activated in WordPress and it will work immediately. Are you intrigued? Keep reading…

Implemented Features

This core class implements multi instance widget support and handles everything from setting instances, saving settings to prepare options for display. If you have read my article Create multi instance Widget you have seen how much work is needed to have multi instance support, you can appreciate having a already written code that you can use for every widget you make and not to wary about it anymore.

Also, your plugin can also have control panel subpages in Plugins, Settings and Manage WordPress admin pages, and you can even set user level that is allowed to see your pages. Core class allows you to implement WP actions to add additional CSS and JS files (or any other external file) in both admin and blog pages. You can have unlimited number of these external files. Just add them into array in your class, and that’s it.

Add to this shortcodes support, handling multilanguage support, event log, dump log and objects to file for debug purposes, support for creating form elements (partially implemented in this version) and additional helper class with few usefull functions.

And don’t forget the included detailed user guide in PDF format.

Base class is reusable, and needed to be installed in WordPress, and many plugins can use it. This way when the new version of base class is released, it needs to be updated only once.

Wizard

Wizard page is added to Plugins WordPress page. You can fill in basic info about yourself and the plugin you are making, check and set features you want the plugin to have, and you will get all necessery folders and files generated.

Wizard will be exapanded to include much more features: adding file for inclusion, auto widget form generator and much more.

Planned Features

There are much more features planned for the future versions. I will add roadmap page that will have current list of planned features. You can send me your suggestions for new features I will see if I can add it. Use the email, forum or comments to contact me.

So, try it and see how easy it is to use this core class and wizard. I hope you will find it usefull.