I was perusing the wp-docs mailing list the other day and came across a fascinating discussion on the topic of a WordPress handbook. According to the information provided by members of the list the intention of this handbook is not to replace the Codex but rather to complement it. The Codex, being as vast as it is at nearly 1000 pages, will always be the ultimate source for all things WordPress however a handbook concisely written in an easy to follow format could become a valuable resource. The book would be written in XML format and tied to SVN which means it could easily be updated and versioned just like the software it would document.
Judging by the nature of many of the questions in the support forums its apparent some folk find the Codex either too confusing or intimidating to be of any value at least for those new to the software. I can somewhat see where they are coming from. Many of the pages within the Codex seem to be written for people who have some degree of experience with WordPress. I have personally answered support tickets where the OP read the documentation but just could not understand the instructions. The handbook would alleviate this problem as it wouldn't necessarily target experienced users or developers but rather people who know little or nothing about WordPress. Another problem that exists with the Codex is that it can be difficult at times to find the information you need. Actually it's not really a Codex-specific shortcoming but rather a problem with the way Wikis in general are structured. They don't have the greatest navigation. The handbook would solve this problem as well.
Think of the handbook as a guide containing detailed and concise instructions on a variety of topics but not containing all of the information of the Codex. It would be just enough info to get you up and running and provide you with a quick primer in the area of your choice. For more detailed or technical information you would then seek out the Codex.
I think this is a fantastic idea and can see this handbook becoming popular very quickly.
About Len Kutchma
This would be a great idea. I'm am using WordPress more and more as a CMS for clients, and so it would be very useful to be able to point them to something a bit more end-user orientated than the codex. I normally have to write my separate guides at the moment.
Hi Paul. I think it is an excellent idea. I can see a concise handbook being much more user friendly (if done properly) for noobs.