Joomla! 1.6 is released-Initial thoughts

Joomla! 1.6 is finally released after months (years?) of anticipation from the Joomla! user community.

This new version of the popular content management system has a lot to live up to and according to the Joomla! website, has been rebuilt from the ground up.

So what's all the fuss about?

While remaining a popular choice among the many content management systems available today, Joomla! has had it's critics. That said, it has supporters by the coachload.

An active developer community has ensured that many shortcomings that the application experienced were handled.

Joomla! 1.6 new features

So let's have a look at some of the new additions to Joomla! 1.6 under the hood;

1. Improved administrator interface buttons, menus & design
2. Time-saving buttons inc. "Save & New" & "Save as Copy"
3. Multi-language support
4. Access level control - add as many access levels as you need
5. Access control list system - control who can do what
6. Assign modules to all pages except those specified
7. Nested categories - goodbye sections! 
8. SEO improvements
9. Built in 301 redirects
10. Template styles - set different settings/looks for a single template

Should I upgrade to Joomla! 1.6 now?

As with all new software version releases, there are several reasons why it's advisable to exercise caution before going ahead with upgrading.

• You may have third party components, modules or plugin's installed on your website which may not yet be compatible with Joomla! 1.6, Check with the developers of your installed add-on's to see if an update is available.

• Your template will need to be amended to be Joomla! 1.6 friendly.

• It's prudent so quickly after the launch of Joomla! 1.6 to observe the Joomla! user community where any any key bugs or security issues will quickly be identified. 

For further information and advice about implementing Joomla! 1.6, why not give us a call on 02392 123382, or make an online enquiry.