4 Modern Methods for Developing WordPress Themes in 2024

In the dynamic world of web development, WordPress remains a leading platform for creating websites. As we move into 2024, developers are leveraging a variety of approaches to theme development, each offering unique benefits and features. Let’s delve into four contemporary methods for developing WordPress themes that are widely used today.

1. No-coding Style – Crafting Beautiful Templates with Block Editor Themes

The advent of block editors like Gutenberg has greatly simplified the process of creating WordPress themes. This method is ideal for individuals without coding skills who still wish to design visually appealing and functional websites.

Advantages:

• Ease of Use: Create pages and posts by simply dragging and dropping blocks.
• Design Flexibility: Gutenberg provides numerous built-in blocks that can be customized.
• Speed of Development: No need to write code; all adjustments are made through a visual interface.

How It Works:

1. Choose a Theme: Select a theme compatible with the block editor. Many modern themes are designed specifically for Gutenberg.
2. Customize Blocks: Use the block editor to select and customize elements (texts, images, buttons, etc.).
3. Save and Publish: Save your changes and publish the site after configuring all elements.

2. Building a Custom HTML Theme for the Block Editor with Custom Blocks

For those with basic knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, creating a custom theme and developing unique blocks can be an engaging and effective way to build a distinctive WordPress site. This approach provides complete control over the site’s appearance and functionality, leveraging Gutenberg’s capabilities.

Advantages:

• Full Control: Develop the theme and blocks from scratch, enabling any design vision.
• Optimization: Customize the code to suit specific needs, improving site load speed.
• Enhanced Capabilities: Create custom blocks for Gutenberg tailored to your requirements.

How It Works:

1. Create Theme Files: Start by creating the basic theme files (index.php, style.css, functions.php, etc.).
2. Design Pages: Use HTML and CSS to create page layouts for the theme.
3. Integrate Gutenberg and Develop Custom Blocks: Add Gutenberg support and create custom blocks with JavaScript and React to meet specific needs.
4. Test and Refine: Test the theme and custom blocks on various devices and browsers, making necessary adjustments for proper functionality and appearance.

3. Utilizing the Classic Approach with PHP + ACF

Despite the growing popularity of block editors, many developers still favor the classic approach using PHP and Advanced Custom Fields (ACF). This method enables the creation of complex and unique sites with a high degree of customization.

Advantages:

• Flexibility and Power: PHP allows the creation of complex functional elements, while ACF offers an easy interface for adding custom fields.
• Extensive Capabilities: Integrate various plugins and extensions to enhance site functionality.
• Community Support and Documentation: Access to a wealth of educational resources and community support.

How It Works:

1. Install ACF: Install and activate the Advanced Custom Fields plugin.
2. Create Custom Fields: Use ACF in the WordPress admin panel to create the necessary custom fields.
3. Integrate Fields into the Theme: Utilize PHP in the theme files to display data from custom fields.
4. Configure and Test: Adjust the site’s appearance and functionality, and test its performance.

4. WordPress as an API – Any Frontend Framework of Your Choice

This method is ideal for those who prefer using WordPress solely as a backend, with the frontend developed using modern JavaScript frameworks like React, Vue, or Angular.

Advantages:

• Modern Technologies: Utilize current frontend technologies to create fast and interactive interfaces.
• Separation of Concerns: Keep the backend separate from the frontend, simplifying project scaling and maintenance.
• Flexibility: Develop unique and complex applications using the capabilities of REST API or GraphQL.

How It Works:

1. Enable REST API: Ensure REST API is activated on your WordPress site.
2. Select a Framework: Choose a JavaScript framework to work with (e.g., React).
3. Develop the Frontend: Build the frontend application to fetch data from WordPress via the API.
4. Integrate and Test: Connect the frontend with the backend and test the application on different devices.

Which Method to Choose?

Each of these methods offers distinct advantages and suits various situations. Share your thoughts in the comments on which WordPress theme development method you find most convenient and why. Perhaps you have a unique approach you’d like to discuss?

Leave your opinions and questions below; we look forward to your comments!