Subscribers aren't enough. Who is reading your Blog?

Well, that's not enough if you own a blog and publishing content on regular intervals. Understanding your audience and keeping a check on them regularly is a crucial step to success. It assists in learning and helps to find out which blog page are very popular among the users. How do the users land on those blog pages? And what else entertained the user?

Undoubtedly, blogging is a huge pond for bloggers to dive. And WordPress is a significant platform to reach millions of audiences across the globe. So here in this article, we shall discuss how to find out who reads your blog and who are the subscribers to your WordPress blog.

Understanding about Google Analytics

Google Analytics is a freemium web analytics service which is offered by the tech giant, Google. It tracks the visitor's site and reports about RSS feed subscribers. First, one is required to visit the Google Analytics websites and signup for an account.

Setting up Google Analytics for WordPress using MonsterInsights

To set up this MonsterInsights plugin you do not need to hire a WordPress developer for it. It is a simple and a quick procedure for the same. And if you've already installed this plugin then you may skip this step.

After installing the plugin, you need to install and activate the Google Analytics by MonsterInsights plugin. Here is a simple guide to building a WordPress plugin.

At the time of activation, you need to visit Insights > Settings page and click on ‘Authenticate with your Google account’ button. It will open a dialog box which will ask you to give permission to the Google Analytics plugins to access the users Google account. You may proceed by clicking the allow button.

Once you are done with this, the plugin will now fetch your account settings from your Google Analytics account. Now you need to select your analytics profile by clicking on select a profile. You may now click to save the changes icon to save your settings.

How to track RSS Links in Google Analytics

In addition to tracking visitors on your website, Google Analytics can also track links to your website from other sources like your RSS feed, email newsletter, social links, etc.

You can add your URL parameters in case you're sharing links manually. Although WordPress automatically generates the links in your RSS feed and newsletter.

You may track your RSS feed links using the Google Analytics by MonsterInsights plugin in WordPress. You may proceed with the following procedure.

To visit the Settings click on to Analytics > Settings in the WordPress admin section and click on the Advanced tab. Check the box next to ‘Tag links in RSS feed with campaign variables’ option and click on the save changes button.

That's all!

Find the subscriber Information

The first major step to find subscriber information is to give your users the ability to subscribe to your blog through an email newsletter. The two primary email marketing platform among our users are MailChimp and AWeber. Both of the subscribers come with its own built-in analytics.

I hope this blog has helped you find who reads and subscribes to your WordPress blog.

Factors to Consider before choosing a WordPress Plugin

WordPress plugins are useful tools that help in extending the functionality of a website or blog. However, with over 37,000 plugins available in the WordPress Plugin Repository, choosing the most suitable ones for your site can be overwhelming and challenging no matter whether you're a beginner or an experienced usee.

In this post, I'll share you with some important aspects that you should consider when choosing a WordPress plugin for your website.

Before Proceeding Further

Remember when you're searching for a plugin, make sure to jot down all your requirements about what you want a plugin to do. In essence, create a checklist containing a set of features that you're seeking in a plugin. Not to mention, choose a plugin that offers features to meet your exact website needs.

You don't necessarily have to choose just one plugin that can do all the work for you. Instead, you can consider installing 2 or more plugins if they together can facilitate you with the desired features. But, avoid installing too many (and unwanted) plugins in your website.

You can easily search for the plugin in the WordPress plugin directory. The plugin directory comes with thousands of free plugins. The official plugin directory looks something like:

As you can see in the above image, you can find all the featured plugins as you scroll down the page. You can also easily find the most popular plugin options, by clicking on the “Popular” tab and so on. Being able to find free to use plugins from one single destination is indeed good for beginners, but the overwhelming number of plugins makes it difficult to pick the best plugin.

Now, let's move ahead to understanding some key aspects to choose the best WP plugin worth considering.

Key Aspects For Selecting a WordPress Plugin Worth Exploring

The best way to know which plugin you should download for your website is to compare the plugins based on information like ratings, reviews, compatibility, etc. In this section, we'll be talking about some of the most important factors you should take into account to decide which plugin will best suit your needs. 

1. Do not scour over the net to get your desired plugin.

Yes, you heard that right! Most of the WordPress users have a habit of scouring the net to learn about the best WP plugins. But, amidst thousands of search results, finding an appropriate plugin for your site can be a tedious process. Instead, one best way to find a good plugin is to know if any bugs are found in a plugin (especially the one you would like to use for your site). To do so, simply head to the plugin's support page on wordpress.org.

The support page for the plugin won't only show the bugs that have been reported by other plugin users, but will also help answer your queries (if any) relating to a WordPress plugin.

2. Be wary of using disallowed plugins.

While a plugin does help in extending a site's functionality, there are a few plugins that can slow down your site because of using excess resources. These kind of plugins are banned from being used on sites. You can know about such plugins, by looking at the WP Engine list of disallowed plugins.

Make sure not use any plugins on the list, as they're banned since WP Engine provides all of the features (offered by different plugins) themselves like caching, creating backups, etc.

3. Consider using plugins of well-established contributors.

Lastly, it's worth looking at who developed the plugin you want to install on your site. Check out if the plugin author is a well-established member of the WordPress community or not. In addition, do make sure if the plugin creator is a contributor to the WordPress core, have they authored other well-regarded plugins and so on. You can find the profile of plugin authors in the WordPress.org plugin repository.

4. How many times a plugin has been downloaded?

The first thing you should consider when choosing a plugin is the number of times it has been downloaded (also referred to as active installs). The more a plugin will be downloaded, the more popular it will be. A popular plugin is the one that best fit users' needs, is well-maintained by its developer, have fewer or no issues and works well compared to the plugins that are downloaded only a few times. 

For example, as you can see when the two shortcode generator plugins, i.e. Shortcodes Ultimate and Easy Bootstrap Shortcode are compared based on the number of downloads, the former one with 4 lakh active installs beat the second plugin with 40 thousand active installs. 

5. Which plugin has a good user rating?

Another key factor that will help you decide which plugin is better compared to other available options in the similar category is to check out the Plugin Ratings give by users. The classic star rating of 1 out of 5 stars is used to rate a plugin; the plugin getting 5 out of 5 stars is the most popular and high-quality plugin. It is advised that you should avoid using a plugin having a low rating (ideally less than 3-star rating) unless it's a new plugin that is yet to be explored by users.

You can check a plugin's rating from the main plugin directory window, as shown in the screen shot below:

Also, you can view the rating of a plugin given by users by opening a plugin page:

6. Which WordPress version the plugin supports?

Not all the plugins will support the latest version of the WordPress platform. And so, make sure that the plugin you want to use is compatible with your WordPress website. In case, the selected plugin does not work on the latest or old version of your website, then it won't possibly work on your WP site's version.

You can know about whether a plugin will work well on your website version or not, by checking out the “Requires WordPress version“ option given in the sidebar section of a plugin page:

7. Read user reviews on a plugin.

One clear way to determine if a plugin can help meet your website needs or not, is to read about users' experiences about the plugin. Reading user reviews regarding a plugin will make you understand things like how a plugin helps in solving an issue or what kind of functionality it adds to a WordPress install.


Final Words

Through this post, I've tried to cover the most crucial aspects that you should consider when you're about to select a plugin for your WordPress site. You can decide on choosing a plugin by viewing the times a plugin has been downloaded, or by seeing the ratings and reviews given by other WP users. Though the above discussed factors might not help you in choosing 100 percent perfect plugin for your site, but will definitely let you make an informed decision.

Note: Avoid choosing a plugin that hasn't been updated since a long time.

Need of Custom PSD to WordPress Coding

When you are about to enter into the web development world to take your business on mobile you need to remember that crux of developing an incredible website , which is: Firstly, make the design interface attractive yet not a maze for the users. Secondly, make sure that the code for your website is quite functional and efficient.


Both these components work in together to render an incredible websites and one is incomplete without the other and you cannot cut slack in any of the two if you want to have a good website.

May people think that creating a good web design is a matter of sheer technical expert but it is quite an artistic job which requires great creative acumen which is quite a rare species;


However the other phase of web design which is converting it into intuitive web enabled components require you to have brilliant coding skills and a strong grasp on web languages such as HTML, PHP, CSS and JavaScript.


This brings to us the conclusion that creating a PSD image of your design is quite an easy but technically coding it into a workable and functional website is an arduous task.

WordPress is a blessing for those who do not have a good hand at programming, being an open source community has gifted or, an open source tool for developing websites quickly and is quite an effective content management system which is great user friendly quotient and can be used efficiently to create a quality website.


Though it is quite easy, but you need to focus on WordPress web development process as it is no cake walk to create a custom website. Those who are not sure about how to go about the process of PSD to WordPress Conversion can read along to get a lucid picture:


Step 1: Slice your PSD images



The process of PSD to WordPress conversion begins with slicing. Slicing implies cutting and dividing the design file of an image into several small files designs in which they will have different component of the holistic design. This process holds quite an important as no one can code the complete design in one single image. One single web design is a unit that comprises of multiple images interviewer seamlessly, and each and every component and design feature render a purpose and functionality of its own.



Step 2: Style.css and Index.html



Following that step is the coding process in which the sliced images are coded into HTML or XHTML web format and designers use CSS to style them. For this process the designers need to have strong hold on languages such as CSS and HTML.


To accomplish this purpose developers make softwares such as Fireworks and Dreamweaver, which are developed to create websites, however on top of it, it is totally dependent on the programmer what they prefer to use.


Step 3: Creating WordPress Theme



When it comes to the process of developing a WordPress website it is actually converting the WordPress theme which is then uploaded into a WordPress software.


Which means the prime focus of converting a PSD image to WordPress process implies to create a PSD image into a WordPress theme and then after making it functional using the tools and plugins to make it a fully functional website.


Thus in order to develop an extremely intelligent WordPress website, you need to design your basic HTML file as per the basic file structure of WordPress theme’s and then breaking down your HTML file into multiple HTML files that fits into the structure of the file.



WordPress comprises of several PHP files for instance Header.php,archive.php, Index.php, Footer.php, page.php, single.php, category.php,Sidebar.php, 404.php, search.php, comments-popup.php and comments.php.



Step 4: WordPress tags


WordPress offers numerous intrinsic functions that one can leverage to add basic functionalities onto your WordPress theme. This do not requires the developer to deal with complex HTML codes. All you need to do is to just incorporate inbuilt functions of WordPress into your theme files and incorporate the requisite functionality to get your job done.



Step 5: Make it functional


As we have now completed the task of creating and activating a theme, you can get to see the complete benefit of your WordPress CMS platform. For those who wish to get any other functionality in their website, or alter a functionality that already you need to just install a plugin or can use the WordPress dashboard to alter the existing structure.

What's In A Store Of WordPress 4.5 Version?

WordPress 4.5, is the next upcoming version of WordPress that is already in development phase and is targeted  to release in the month of April 2016 that is already been set by WordPress team. According to the update, in the month of February 24, 2016, WordPress version 4.5 Beta 1 has been released in the market  and is now accessible to users to download for the purpose of testing.  We just got to see the latest release of WordPress 4.4 with its latest security as well as maintenance version of WordPress 4.4.1 that was released earlier. Working with WordPress alteration process needs an immoderate hard work to make it function in proper ways

Coming to the core development team that has published a brief project agenda referencing the release of WordPress version 4.5 in the month of April 2016; but, according to the WordPress team, the current target release date version 4.5 of WordPress is April 12, 2016. The beta version 1 of WordPress 4.5 is currently scheduled to release by the end of February 2017, and it is great news to know that its three more beta versions are in sync in the releasing process.



Below here is given a planned chart that defines the project schedule for WordPress version 4.5.

Mike Schroder, who is known for WordPress core developer is handling  the release lead for the WordPress version 4.5 and will be well helped by two other release assistants: Mel Choyce and Adam Silverstein. The project schedule that is presented above clearly defines that all new enhancements as well as feature requests  of WordPress version 4.5 definitely needs to be added by the release of Beta 1 version.

All the latest WordPress features are initially prepared as a plug-in and are efficiently managed to be merged properly in the core over the course of alteration stage. There are surely ample of WordPress 4.5 features, but there are few features that are worth mentioning that are implemented to be worked on and surely has made it to discussions in the opening meeting that comprises the following list:

• Betterments with the theme customizer section that includes features such as customize pane resizer tool and customize device preview panel.
• Enhancement of Post Editing process and Publishing activity
• Fixing up of image compression process in the core sector
• Enhancement of HTTPs to fix integrated content sections

Well, apart from above improvement plans of WordPress, I feel that there are various other updated features that are currently taken forward as plug-ins and already offers am exciting look to users. They are:

Two-Factor Authentication mode

 
Background Image Cropper – Enables easy cropping of all types of background images in the Customizer section that are quite similar to header images.

Next we proceed to discuss about Shiny update features that help WordPress users to – remove every ugly scraps of updating plug-ins as well as themes. 

WP Toolbar Experiments are defined as essential UX adjustment properties to the WordPress toolbar. 

WordPress REST API version 2 is defined as one of the complete version of WordPress REST API section.

There are more to happen that touches various reinforced image compressions, HTTPs enhancements and the Two-Factor Authentication system for WordPress.

I hope this latest article about the release of WordPress version 4.5, will fetch you with enough idea that will discuss about all new and latest features of WordPress that will be added to this version. So, what kind of features are you expecting in WordPress 4.5 version?  Please share your comments here.

WordPress 4.5 is expected to release in April 2016

WordPress, the world's most popular blogging software is supposed to give a great surprise this new year. According to, WordPress-ism a new version 4.5 of WordPress will be released in mid of April 2016. Mike Schroder, the WordPress core developer, will be the release lead along with Mel Choyce and Adam Silverstein.

Bloggers, Writers, and WordPress Developers must have already checked the latest security and maintenance version WordPress 4.4.1 which was announced officially via WordPress blog on 6th January 2016. Now let's wait for the next surprise!

You can experience the beta-1 version of WordPress 4.5 in February itself, and  three more beta versions are expected to be released before the final release candidate. 

Check out the chart showing the project schedule for WordPress version 4.5.

The few essential features that are expected shall be: 

1. Improvements with customizer that shall include customize pane resizer and customize device preview.
2. Improvements in post edit and publishing process.
3. Improvements in core compression of images.
4. HTTPs improvements to fix mixed content.

According to the project schedule for 4.5 version, new enhancements and feature requests will need to be added by the release of Beta 1 version. All the new features will be first worked on as plugins and will be decided to merge in the core over the course of development.

The call for feature plugins is beginning early, this time, around and a Feature
Plugin chat is scheduled for Tuesday, January 12, 2016, 3:00 PM CST. The main
purpose of the early chat is for plugins that believe they are ready for merge, and to start up new ones for future releases. Those who have ideas and plugins to put forward will have an opportunity to get feedback from other contributors.

Additionally, some new features, which are currently used as Plugins are: 

- Two-Factor Authentication for WordPress
- Background Image Cropper– It will enable cropping of background images in the Customizer, similar to the header images.
 - Shiny Updates – It removes the ugly bits of updating plugins and themes.
- WP Toolbar Experiments– some potential UX changes to the WordPress toolbar.
- WordPress REST API (Version 2)

Now let's see what how will the team maintain momentum and how 4.5 version will be executed according to the project scheduled.

WordPrax – Your Trusted HTML to WordPress Conversion Service Provider

WordPrax Ltd. is a highly recognized name in the web industry known for offering quality HTML to WordPress conversion services. With more than 10 years of experience and backed by adroit and technically proficient professionals, WordPrax strives to provide WordPress development and customization services that ensures your business growth and betterment. So far, the company has successfully completed over 50,000 projects and continue to deliver cutting-edge development solutions in-vogue demands. WordPress experts ensures to deliver quality-driven and out-of-the-box solutions that help our clients achieve a strong online identity and market presence.

The company provides various services such as:

PSD to WordPress Conversion: Converting PSD to WordPress theme has become the standard way to develop unique looking WP sites with enhanced functionalities. That's because, it gives the ability to create a website theme that is tailored to suit your specific needs.

WordPress Theme Customization: If you have selected a pre-built theme or simply want to customize your already existing WordPress theme, hiring our WordPress Theme Customization will help address your website needs in the most efficient manner possible. 
WordPress Plugin Development Services: The number of plugins that WordPress offers is one of the biggest reasons that makes it so popular among people. But, what if any available WP plugin (whether free or premium plugin) can't meet your particular needs? In that case, it is recommended that you must consider developing a custom plugin using WordPrax Plugin development services.
WordPress Custom Development: No matter whatever your customization needs may be, WordPrax – WordPress Custom Development can help meet your expectations with efficiency. Using this service, you can customize your current theme or develop a new one as you deem perfect.

You can hire dedicated WordPress developers at WordPrax for for affordable price of $18 per hour.

To know more about the company, you can visit their website wordprax.com or send your queries at  sales@wordprax.com.

Why Should You Hire a WordPress Developer and How?

Running your WordPress site in today's highly competitive virtual world is not an easy task, and requires you to put in a lot of efforts and time in coming up with a solution that can facilitate you a competitive advantage. So, despite having little knowledge about WordPress, there is a greater likelihood that you might fail to create a rock-solid web presence.

Especially if you are a non-tech savvy user, you cannot expect to make it big online merely by making a pre-built WP theme up and running. There are several other aspects that need your due consideration, during WP website development. But, what if you don't have the time or skills needed to get the job done? In that case, choosing to hire WordPress developer can help address your project needs efficiently. 

Below are a few crucial tips to help you understand how you can hire a credible and trusted WP developer:

1. Check out Developer's Proficiency in WordPress

Analyzing your developer's proficiency in WordPress is crucial in getting a result-driven solution. Remember that not all the developers have the same skill set. While a few may excel in some areas of WordPress development, but might fail in other areas (that match your project requirements).

So, be clear whether the developer you are about to hire can provide the exact services based on your preferences or not. Getting familiar with the basics of WordPress can help you in analyzing your service provider skills in a better manner.

2. Experience in WordPress Development/Customization

Ask how many years of experience your developer possesses in offering WordPress development or customization services. That is not to say that you shouldn't consider hiring a developer with less experience in WordPress projects, but selecting a highly experienced professional (with at least five years of experience), you can get assured outcome.

Also, make certain that your service provider has worked on the latest technologies essential for performing WordPress development.

3. Match Your Project Requirements With Developer's Portfolio

Today, almost every professional WordPress developer or a web development firm include a portfolio page to help users get an idea of what sort of work they can deliver to them. Check out your developer's portfolio as well, so as to make out if he/she has worked on any project that matches your project requirements.

4. Ask For Development Cost and Delivery Time

Your development budget can be an obstacle in hiring a service professional – that can deliver the quality of work you're expecting. But, you can still get first-class development services by choosing to outsource your project to an offshore web development company. But, be wise to select a company having a good reputation in the market.

Also, make sure that the company holds a good track record of delivering projects within discussed timelines.

Conclusion

Taking up an experienced WordPress developer services can help you address all your specific project requirements in the most effective and efficient manner possible. Reading the points above will further help you in finding a reliable development partner for your project.