When it comes to developing a robust website, Drupal serves as one of the most reliable platforms. Flexibility, customization, and scalability are just a few of the benefits it bundles up. Additionally, it offers thousands of modules which can be customized according to the requirements of the website. These modules form the backbone of the platform as they give the power to enhance the features and functionalities of the website. These functionalities could range from managing e-commerce storefronts to customizing the site layout, integrating third party tools, and more.
The developer has a choice between using any of these available modules or to opt for Drupal Module Development for adding unique functionalities to the site. The first option is preferable because the Drupal module range packs almost everything that a developer could ever need. It is just a matter of making the right choice and using it in the right way. Now the question is how to choose the right ones, considering the vast choice available.
Understand The Need:- Since the number of free Drupal Modules is so large, there is a temptation to download many of them. But the redundant ones can do more harm than good as they make the site confusing for the user. Also, there are chances that some vulnerable Drupal modules could be downloaded in the process. The best solution is to understand the need of the site and search specific modules to fulfill those requirements.
Explore The Options:- After the specific needs are identified, the next step is to explore the available options. The modules can be searched on the basis of keywords related to functionalities, specifications, or descriptions you are looking for. Make sure that you pick only the ones that are actually needed.
Evaluate The Modules:- After you have shortlisted some modules that could be potentially useful for your site, you need to evaluate them before the final decision. Start by going through the module description to understand what it really does. Checking the community adoption of the module is a good idea as it gives a fair idea about its popularity and reliability. For this, you have to find the number of downloads and installs of the particular modules.
Find Out About Updates And Solutions:- Before installing a module, you need to learn about its maintenance status. A module which is updated regularly has fewer security vulnerabilities and bugs. Also, it offers added features on a regular basis. The best way is to keep an eye on the maintainer activity, checking how frequently the maintainer makes updates. A sound community backing ensures that you can get support for resolving any issues that you may encounter after installing the module.
Finally, you have to analyze whether the chosen module is close to your expectations or requires numerous modifications to suffice your purpose. If the gap between the need and functionality is a close one, the module can be extended or altered. On the other hand, it is better to create a new one if a lot has to be changed in the available options.
