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When s-go Consulting we builds any Joomla website for a client, we use a standard set of Joomla plug-ins and add-ons. Most have been used on 150+ client websites (including our own) and are tied and true. Whether we are building a standard business content management website, e-commerce website using a Joomla component like Virtuemart or a Joomla based blog, we install our favorites.
JCE Editor Component
This Joomla editor just keeps getting better and better. It is especially handy for our clients who do some of their own content management. It is a huge improvement in terms of features and functions over the core TinyMCE editor built into Joomla. While the editor is free, everyone should subscribe for $30 ($20 for renewals) and get access to additional powerful plug-ins. Subscription plug-ins include Image Manager Extended, File Manager and Media Manager. We use this on every site.
Xmap
An absolute 100% install on every site. This component provides on an on-page site map as well as sitemap XML for submission to Google, Bing and Yahoo. Vesion 1.2.2 now comes with 21 pre-installed extensions to help map other components.
QContacts
A replacement to the core contact component that is built into Joomla, QContact looks very similar but adds an integrated CAPTCHA feature to control spam emails. QContact also provides up to six additional custom fields and Yahoo Messenger Id and Skype Id fields. A sh404SEF plug-in is also available.
Google Analytics
We also include this on every client site. While there are several free plug-ins available such as BIGSHOT Google Analytics, J!Analytics, Joomla GATor and Google Analytics Tracking Module, we have never used any of them. We install the Google Javascript tracking code into the Joomla template index.php file manually.
sh404SEF
sh404SEF is a component that rewrites Joomla URLs to a more user-friendly format (SEF URL or URL rewriting). There are several third party plug-ins for support of other components. sh404SEF also has an option to insert H1 tags on your pages.
Mass Content
An extensions (component) that allows you to rapidly build sections and categories as well as Joomla content with titles, menu links, intro text. It allows editing of some parameters. Just a couple of clicks are needed. A real time saver.
AllVideos Reloaded
A killer video and audio plug-in for streaming your own video from your server or embedding video from YouTube or other video websites. Handles dozens of video and audio formats. Support videos in modules or content and a cool pop up lightbox video option.
Breezing Forms
We design custom forms for at least 50% of our clients. We have been using Breezing Forms (formerly Facile Forms) for more than four years. Now a subscription based component (plans starts at $15) Breezing forms is worth it. With a visual design interface and powerful scripting capability, Breezing forms will assist you in proving from basic to complex forms with CAPTCHA spam control.
Rok Twittie
A module to embed your latest Twitter posts in any module position. It is high customizable and will show your profile information. For those interested in integrating social media feature into their website.
Feedburner Feed Links
A module which displays the generic or custom RSS icon and a 'subscribe' link for up to 2 Feedburner feeds. Just enter the names of your feeds and your custom text for the 'subscribe' links. Just a better way to syndicate content, especially for SEO.
There are many other plug-ins and extensions that we love and use often. The 10 Joomla plug-ins and add-ons listed are just a great start for virtually any Joomla website design project.
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