A website is like any other piece of machinery: it needs tending. If you want to get the most out your site or tailor it to meet a specific need, that will most likely involve widgets, plugins, layout tweaks, or knitting in third party software. With increased functionality inevitable conflicts and performance issues crop up. Trust me. I’ve been there. When they do, what to do? First, don’t panic. Secondly, use some or all of the following suggestions to find a solution.
1. Realize that there is no issue that hasn’t been confronted, solved, and discussed somewhere by someone else. You are not alone.
2. Write down the issue, formulate questions you think need to be answered and try to be as specific as possible. Don’t censor yourself. There are no stupid questions.
3. Use Google. Google is indeed a good friend.
4. Join a discussion forum. For example: WordPress.org has an extensive knowledgeable and a very active and engaged community; as does Thesis. Remember that there are many people online who will be happy to help those who ask for help. But, be prepared to roll up your sleeves and sweat a little. Don’t expect someone else to do all the work for you.
5. When you find information you think might be helpful, read carefully. Sometimes crucial pieces of information are right in front of you if you would only slow down long enough to really understand what you’re reading. The more you seek, the more the hints will accumulate and point you in the right direction. Note to self: remember this when dealing with non-technical issues as well.
6. Be patient.
7. Relax.
8. And when it seems that you are no closer to the answer than when you started, step away from the computer and get some fresh air. Take a walk or ride a bike. Ice cream works too.
9. Sleep on it. I’m always amazed when solutions materialize seemingly out of thin air after a good night’s sleep.
10. Keep some perspective. Not finding an answer immediately is not the end of the world. But, have confidence that you will eventually find a solution if you stick with it.
