WP the for offline consulting: PageLines PlattformPro vs. Thesis vs. Genesis

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Which framework would YOU pick?

I am leaning towards PageLines PlattformPro - not sure though... :confused:

Thanks
#website design #consulting #genesis #offline #pagelines #plattformpro #thesis
  • Be warned that you will have to customize the framework to suit your needs or it will look very unprofessional. You can go for a theme that suits your need without bothering about a framework (which are enhanced themes).
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  • I use the Genesis framework with one of the child themes. Easy to configure and looks nice.
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  • When it comes to Frameworks, I prefer either Genesis or Thematic.

    Genesis is a premium (paid) framework, but Thematic is free. I find myself using Thematic a little more than Genesis, but I think that's because I have a higher comfort level with Thematic. Both frameworks ROCK in my opinion.

    Both require some knowledge of action hooks and filters to make the child theme look/function the way you want them to. You will also need to know some CSS, or at least be comfortable editing CSS.

    When using a framework, you always - and I mean ALWAYS - want to create a child theme. Never edit the actual framework. Any changes that you need to make should be done in a child theme.

    The reason I say this is because of the update process. For instance, if you change something in the main Genesis framework, and StudioPress releases an update for the framework & you install the update, all of the changes you made to the framework will go back to the default look.

    If all of this talk of child themes is confusing you, check this out: Child Themes « WordPress Codex

    If you aren't at least somewhat familiar with PHP and CSS, I would recommend staying away from theme frameworks. Buy a theme that already fits what you are looking for and make (or pay someone to make) minor changes to the theme.

    Also, don't forget that there are lots of free themes out there. A large majority of the licenses for free themes require a link back to the theme, but as long as the theme doesn't require you to leave tons of crazy links in the footer, linking back to the theme developer's site isn't a big deal in return for a free theme.

    I can't comment on PageLines PlattformPro because I've never actually used it.

    Hope that helps a little,

    -Jason
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  • I agree with everything Jason said - except that I prefer Thesis.

    Thesis doesn't have child themes, but it does have a custom stylesheet and a custom functions file which have the same effect as child themes (of preserving your customisations through upgrades).

    Cheers,

    Martin.
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    • Hey Jason! Thanks so much for this comprehensive post. Cleared my mind quite a bit about this framework to child theme relationship...

      I hope some other wp beginners will benefit from your input in the future as well.

      It is really heartening to experience the great community among warriors here - so thank you all guys!

      I am comfortable with learning some php and css, because that is what i wanted to do anyway. Just to get some basics. Will look at your recommendation for a free theme as well.

      Have a great weekend! Valli
  • No problem at all Valli! Glad I could help. If you have any further questions, feel free to drop me a PM any time.

    You have a great weekend too!

    -Jason
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