Entries: The innovative and versatile app for the WoltLab Suite

Entries: Everything you need in one plugin

Entries - actually Suite Entries - is my (Julian Pfeil) latest end application for the WoltLab Suite. It impresses with innovative functions and numerous expansion options! As a modern solution, it builds on the success and functionality of our end application "Showcase" and integrates - together with the planned extensions - proven elements from our popular plugins "Points of Interest", "Link Database" and "User Map". Entries thus combines the best of different worlds in one powerful platform.

Thanks to its state-of-the-art code, some of which comes from the "link database", Entries sets new standards. This robust foundation enables fast and efficient updates and adaptations to the WoltLab Suite. And best of all: other use cases also automatically benefit from new functions - whether as a user map or as a versatile collection of important locations (points of interest).

Individual list views
Entries allows you to customize lists exactly to your needs. You can define default sorting, select fields and input fields individually for display or hide them. In addition, you can choose between different display types: "Minimalist / List", "Detailed", "Tiles" and "Gallery" - inspired by our proven plugins such as the link database and points of interest.

Independent categories for maximum flexibility
Each category is fully customizable and has its own list view. For example, you can display one category in the "Minimalist / List" style and another in the detailed view. Perfect for displaying content such as important addresses (points of interest) and links separately. The content of the corresponding boxes can also be limited to the respective category - so everything remains clearly arranged and separated.

Flexible tabs for entries
Entries offers a dynamic tab system that adapts to your requirements. Tabs such as "General", "Entry fields" or "Comments" can be prioritized. Even better: each input field can be displayed as a separate tab with its own priority. This flexibility opens up almost infinite possibilities for presenting information, images and more - in exactly the order that makes sense to you.

A completely revamped box system
We've revamped the existing boxes from plugins like Points of Interest and the link database and added new boxes, including a handy statistics box. Even the label filter box, which was previously not a system box, can now be positioned flexibly using ACP options. This means you can even run Entries without a sidebar - for even more freedom.

Flexible BBCode for entries
Entries supports an improved BBCode with a second parameter that controls the display. You have the choice between "detail", "tile" or "noimage" for a display without image. If no parameter is set, the BBCode adopts the default setting from the category of the entry - the detailed view by default.

Allow guests to create entries
Entries allows you to allow guests to create entries. This function is ideal for suggestions, requests or other posts without registration. To maintain quality and overview, guest posts can be approved by moderators before publication. This keeps your platform open and controlled at the same time.

Simple moderation
Moderators can manage entries directly in the list via a drop-down menu. We also support "clipboard actions", which you may already be familiar with from the POI plugin. These allow you to manage several entries at the same time, such as enabling, deleting or marking as recommended.

Further improvements
The list is equipped with extensive sorting and filtering options. These include filters for categories, languages and even individual input fields - perfectly tailored to your requirements.

Planned extensions - how Entries grows with your needs

Entries is not only an impressive basic plugin, but also the basis for many exciting extensions that are already planned. Each extension brings unique features to extend and improve the possibilities of Entries. Here is an overview:

Links extension: More than just links
The Links extension takes link management to a whole new level. Inspired by the popular functions of the link database, this extension offers features such as the automatic generation of preview images (screenshots) and support for both internal and external links. An integrated click counter tracks link usage, while external links are routed via a redirect page - ideal for increased security and control. This extension turns links into much more than mere references, they become real added value elements.

Address extension: New standards for points of interest
The address extension brings the best of the well-known Points of Interest plugin into the modern world of Entries - and even more! In addition to the usual functions such as the management and display of important addresses, a powerful proximity search is planned that will revolutionize user-friendliness. Whether for local business entries, event locations or meeting places - this extension offers maximum flexibility for every application.

User map extension: The community at a glance
This extension takes the popular user map to the next level. Familiar functions such as displaying user locations are retained, while new features ensure an even better experience. Suggestions for further improvements are always welcome - making the user map exactly what your community needs. Thanks to the embedding in the Entries framework, everything remains flexible and future-proof.

Reviews extension: ratings made easy
The reviews extension allows entries of all kinds to be rated. Whether products, places or services - this feature opens up completely new possibilities for user interactions. A simple but effective rating system ensures that feedback remains clear and comprehensible.

Automatic forum topics, warnings and advanced search: efficiency across the board
These enhancements bring familiar and proven functions to the modern Entries platform. Automatically created forum topics make it easier to discuss entries, while warnings and an advanced search function ensure that content can be efficiently moderated and found. Integration with Entries eliminates the need to implement these features separately for different plugins - an elegant solution for maximum efficiency.

Timeline - The path to your perfect Entries experience

Giving an exact date for the completion of all features is always a challenge - especially with a project as ambitious as Entries. Many factors play a role, and our top priority is to develop a perfect plugin. We are constantly considering new ideas and adapting the planning accordingly to ensure that Entries exceeds all expectations.

Nevertheless, we want to give you some guidance and therefore share a rough roadmap outlining progress to date and future milestones.

What will happen to the existing plugins?

The "Showcase", "Points of Interest" and "User Map" plugins have already provided many years of loyal service, but their code components are now technically obsolete. A complete modernization of these plugins would have required a significant development effort - and without significant benefits or new features for users. We have therefore taken the opportunity to make a fresh start with Entries and its modern code components based on the link database.

Replacement by the Entries system
The Entries basic plugin and the associated extensions will gradually replace the four existing plugins. It was particularly important to us to ensure the smoothest possible transition. We are developing special importers for shop windows, points of interest and the link database that will enable you to transfer your existing content to the new system without losing any information.

No importer is currently planned for the "User map" plugin, as the user's places of residence will remain in the profile and can be used directly by the new extension. The effort required for a separate importer would be disproportionately high in this case.

Support during the transition phase
We are aware that many customers would like to continue using their existing plugins until the changeover is complete. Therefore we guarantee:

• Bug fix updates: all existing plugins will continue to be provided with bug fixes so that they remain stable and secure.
• Compatibility: The old plugins will be maintained and updated for as long as necessary to ensure a smooth and convenient transition.

Attractive offers for the changeover
After the release of the importers, we are planning discount campaigns to make the changeover to the new Entries plugins as easy as possible. If you purchased one of the old plugins just a few weeks before the corresponding importer is released, you can contact us directly. We are accommodating in such cases and will make sure that the transition is fair and pleasant for you. However, we ask for a responsible and friendly exchange from customers.

The future: Focus on Entries
After an appropriate transition period, we plan to discontinue the further development of the old plugins. Our team will then concentrate fully on further expanding Entries and its extensions. With this new, future-proof system, we are creating a flexible platform that not only meets current requirements, but also offers room for innovation.

Beta testers wanted - be part of the development of Entries!

Are you technically minded, have your own WoltLab Suite test environment and can communicate precisely and constructively? Be one of the first to test Entries and actively shape the future of Entries extensions.
If you are interested, simply write to me via conversation on WoltLab.

Entries is not just a further development, but a real new beginning. With the combination of modern code, flexible functions and the opportunity to actively participate in the development, we are creating a plugin that leaves nothing to be desired. We look forward to shaping the future of Entries together with you. Be sure to take a look in the comments, leave your opinion - join in!