The best features of Gutenberg WordPress block editor include the ability to add new blocks at any time. This allows us to implement additional types of content and functionality on an as-needed basis.
This is contrary to (in theory, at least) the myriad of page builder plugins on the market. They tend to bundle a wide range of options that are included no matter how you want them. For example, even if you are not interested in using a slide, there will probably be one in the package.
While it’s nice that the block editor provides something closer to an à la carte experience, it’s not without risk. It’s tempting to try it – which creates a well – known problem: many unused plugins are adding to your WordPress installation. Even worse is to deactivate a block, only to realize that it had a negative impact on some topic along the way.
It’s no surprise. After all, plugins are a block still plugins. The same rules and limits apply. So before you willy-nilly install them all, read our guide on choosing the right WordPress block plugins.
Set Your Goals and Needs
Block editor is a relatively new experience for many. So, there can be some confusion as to how to complete specific tasks. So, take a moment to think about what you want to achieve before considering plugins.
Some items are rather self-explanatory. If you want to add an interactive chart, that generally means using a plugin. The same goes for contact form or accordion interfaces.
However, not everything is so simple. A plugin does not need to be involved in achieving a particular layout, for example. This can be achieved through a block pattern and the core blocks already included with WordPress.
Even then, a plugin may provide a shortcut. But, as with other types of additives, it is worth weighing the advantages of this approach against any potential disadvantages.
Once you have understood your goals, you can determine the appropriate way forward blockchain.
Select Blocks As You Would Any Other WordPress Plugin
Blocks are part of the overall WordPress plugin ecosystem. With that, the same level of scrutiny should apply when selecting a block plug.
Plugin reputation, user base, and frequency of updates are critical vital indicators. Block plugins that are not rated or display a support forum full of unanswered questions are red flags.
Then there is the debate between the use of niche and plugins that are intended to be gross trades. This applies to a block plugin just as much as it does to other categories.
There are a number of very popular block rooms, which include numerous types of blocks. This is not unlike the question we mentioned earlier with page builders. While you may only need one particular block, you will have to live with the others as well.
This is in contrast to the Block Directory, which allows users to add blocks one after the other. However, this requires authors to place blocks in the directory. Some blocks are only available as part of a larger set.
Be Aware of the ‘Lock In’ Effect
What if a blockchain you selected is no longer suitable? What if it is abandoned by its author?
Like switching from a page builder, moving on from a block plugin has consequences. Deactivate it and you may lose the formatting and / or functionality of the content concerned. Some cleaning will be required, whether or not you decide to use another plug.
This is a very difficult situation for large websites with heavy content. It may take a long time to go through multiple posts to account for a block that you no longer use.
To some extent, you will be locked into any block plugin you choose. The more you use it, the more effort you will have to leave it behind.
This reinforces the importance of choosing plugins that have a solid track record. While there are no longevity guarantees, you can at least get some peace of mind.
Add WordPress Blocks Well
Blocks immediately represent the future of WordPress. The flexibility they offer, as well as their ability to occupy custom solutions, can help transform any website. And they can do that without much effort from us.
However, it is important to take a considerate approach to installing third-party blocks. Just like with traditional WordPress plugins, quality can vary greatly from product to product.
Ultimately, it’s about choosing blocks that can meet your needs now and in the future. We hope this guide helps make the process a little easier!
