I've read the documenation on add-ons. And on blocks.
Fine. But what is the relationship between them?
Thanks
I've read the documenation on add-ons. And on blocks.
Fine. But what is the relationship between them?
Thanks
Addon can extend functionality of the block manager and add new blocks and change default ones.
Addon can extend functionality of the block manager and add new blocks and change default ones.
Add new block types? (i.e I've discovered since posting my question that I can simply add a new block via the admin panel by choosing from one of a list of built-in types. - sorry; i should have seen this before). so i think what you are saying is that an Add-on can add new built-in block types?
Addons can contain their own blocks and can be integrated into the block manager so those blocks can be applied in your layout.
However, a block within an addon is only one very small area of an addon's capability. Addons are used to extend the system by:
1) provide new functionality
2) modify/extend existing functionality
3) Alter layouts, styles and views
Done correctly, an addon can signficantly alter the behavior of your site and be (for the most part) version independent. Doing it correctly takes time (longer than simply modifying core files) and is more expensive in development cost. However, the benefits of having it be a separate extension that can be enabled/disabled at will is a huge benefit.
Add new block types? (i.e I've discovered since posting my question that I can simply add a new block via the admin panel by choosing from one of a list of built-in types. - sorry; i should have seen this before). so i think what you are saying is that an Add-on can add new built-in block types?
Yes, it can. For example, the Newsletters add-on adds newsletters functionality (ability to collect subscribers, create newsletters, campaigns, etc ) as well adds the new block type with the ability to subscribe on newsletters. The block can be added on any place on any layout page