Extending YOOtheme Pro
Learn how to extend YOOtheme Pro to add custom functionality for your client projects or to create a third-party extension.
Depending on the scope and reusability of the customizations, YOOtheme Pro can be extended in the following ways:
Note To only add custom CSS or JavaScript, simply use the dedicated CSS and Scripts panels in the Settings panel of YOOtheme Pro. Additionally, each page builder element has an option to apply custom CSS in the Advanced tab of the element settings.
Review the comparison below to determine whether the starter plugin or a child theme is more suitable for your project.
| Feature |
Starter Plugin |
Child Theme |
| Extension Type |
A full Joomla/WordPress plugin. |
A folder placed next to YOOtheme Pro in the theme directory. |
| Assistance |
Provides built-in commands to create code examples. |
No assistance. All code must be created manually. |
| CMS Support |
Supports both WordPress and Joomla within the same plugin. |
Separate child themes are needed for Joomla and WordPress. |
| Distribution |
Builds installable ZIP packages automatically. |
No distribution format. Must be zipped manually. |
| Versioning |
Provides plugin version numbers and metadata. |
No built-in versioning or metadata. |
| Updates |
Supports automatic 1-click updates in WordPress and Joomla. |
Must be updated manually by uploading files via FTP. |
- you want reusable functionality for multiple client projects.
- you want installable ZIP packages, versioning, and 1-click updates for long-term maintenance.
- you want the option to extend Joomla or WordPress in addition to YOOtheme Pro.
- you prefer a scalable, maintainable, and developer-focused workflow.
- you are want small project-specific customizations.
- you don't need distribution, versioning, or an automated update process.
- you don't mind manually copying the theme folder when reusing it.
