Your thoughts on custom admin styling

  • So I’ve been re-designing my Easing Slider plugin the past few months and I’ve been thinking about styling the custom admin panel it adds when it is activated.

    What are your thoughts on plugins/themes with styled admin panels (as opposed to the default WordPress styling). Would such styling cause you to refrain from using a particular plugin?

    I’ve always wanted to design a beautiful admin panel for one of my plugins or themes but I’m afraid it would isolate many users who are using the plugins/themes for clients or similar, but I also feel that when a lot of options are added the default styling can become a little cluttered.

    What do you all think?

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  • I tend to prefer using the WP style…. It just feels more natural, and maybe less confusing to new users

    That being said, if the standard layout doesn’t work for you, do what works.

    I’ve never not used a plugin because the look and feel was different, I just feel that sticking with the standard layout is the better option. Seems more ‘integrated’ in the flow

    Thread Starter MatthewRuddy

    (@matthewruddy)

    Greatly appreciate your insight. I do agree with what you have to say, but I have this horrible trait of never being able to make up my mind, haha!

    What about with premium WordPress themes? With such themes, its important that they look as good as possible. Some have decided to use the default styling, others haven’t. Anyone have any idea how this reflects in sales (if at all)?

    Moderator Ipstenu (Mika Epstein)

    (@ipstenu)

    ?????? Advisor and Activist

    Matching the WP style makes it look like it’s SUPPOSED to be a part of WordPress, which IMO looks more professional.

    I think usability takes precedence, of course, and THAT will drive sales more than ‘looks pretty.’

Viewing 3 replies - 1 through 3 (of 3 total)
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