SayPro Documents Required from Employees: Short Code Library

For the successful execution of SCMR-4, it is essential that employees compile a Short Code Library document. This document serves as a comprehensive reference guide for available short codes, their specific functionalities, and how to use them effectively. It will be crucial for both technical and non-technical team members to understand the scope and application of short codes, ensuring they can be seamlessly integrated into content and deliver complex elements or functions as intended.

Below is a detailed outline of the components to include in the Short Code Library document:

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1. Introduction to Short Codes

The document should begin with a brief overview of short codes, including:

• Definition: What short codes are, and their purpose in simplifying and automating content management (e.g., embedding complex functions like forms, galleries, and media without writing complex code).
• Role in SCMR-4: The specific role short codes will play in the context of the SayPro Monthly January SCMR-4. This includes their integration into content and their function in achieving objectives such as enhancing content features or streamlining processes.

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2. List of Available Short Codes

The core of the Short Code Library should list each available short code, describing its functionality and specific use cases. Each short code should include the following:

2.1 Short Code Name

• Example: [contact_form], , [audio_player]

2.2 Description

• Provide a clear explanation of what the short code does and its purpose within the platform or content.
  • Example: The [contact_form] short code generates a form on the page where users can submit their contact details.

2.3 Parameters

• List any parameters or attributes that can be added to the short code for customization. Each parameter should be explained in detail, including:
  • Syntax: How the parameter should be written in the code.
  • Function: What each parameter does and how it alters the behavior of the short code.
  • Example: For a gallery short code, parameters could include columns="3" for the number of columns or size="medium" for image sizing.

2.4 Example Usage

• Provide sample implementations for each short code. These examples should showcase real-world applications of the short code with various parameters.
  • Example: [contact_form title="Get In Touch" action="submit_form"]

2.5 Dependencies

• Any external libraries or assets required by the short code to function properly. For example:
  • Example: The short code may require the Lightbox JavaScript library for image pop-up functionality.

2.6 Limitations

• Outline any limitations or restrictions of the short code.
  • Example: The [audio_player] short code only supports audio files in .mp3 format.

2.7 Common Use Cases

• Briefly describe common scenarios where the short code should be used within content creation.
  • Example: The [contact_form] short code should be used on pages requiring a form for visitors to submit inquiries, like contact pages, event registrations, or feedback forms.

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3. Short Code Categories

Organize the short codes into categories based on their functionality. This will help users quickly find the short code they need depending on the task they’re performing.

3.1 Content Short Codes

• Examples: [text_block], [headline], [paragraph]
  • Used to insert predefined text structures with minimal effort.

3.2 Media Short Codes

• Examples: [image_gallery], [video_embed], [audio_player]
  • Short codes used to insert media content such as images, audio, or video players.

3.3 Functional Short Codes

• Examples: [contact_form], [social_share], [product_display]
  • Short codes designed to insert functional elements like forms, social media buttons, or eCommerce products.

3.4 Design Short Codes

• Examples: [divider], [columns], [button]
  • Short codes that control the design and layout of the content.

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4. Best Practices for Using Short Codes

Provide guidelines for employees on the best practices for utilizing short codes in content:

• Consistency: Ensure uniform use of short codes across content to maintain a clean and cohesive look.
• Performance Considerations: Some short codes (e.g., those involving media or external resources) may affect page load times. Advise on optimizing these short codes (e.g., using lazy loading, optimizing images).
• Accessibility: Ensure that short codes enhance the accessibility of content (e.g., using alt text for images, providing transcripts for audio or video).
• Testing: Short codes should be tested across various browsers and devices to ensure they function correctly in different environments.

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5. Troubleshooting Short Codes

A section on common issues that might arise when using short codes and how to resolve them. This section could include:

• Missing Parameters: Explanation on what happens if a required parameter is not included in a short code, and how to correct it.
• Broken Short Codes: A guide on how to identify broken short codes, and how to resolve issues such as missing dependencies, syntax errors, or compatibility issues.
• Debugging Tools: Recommend tools like browser developer tools for troubleshooting rendering or script errors.

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6. Advanced Short Code Usage

For employees with more technical expertise, include an advanced section that covers:

• Custom Short Codes: Instructions on how to create and register custom short codes, should the need arise.
• Short Code Hooks: How to use hooks or filters to extend or modify the behavior of existing short codes, especially for developers working with custom functionality.
• Short Code Debugging: Advanced techniques for debugging and optimizing short codes using logs, browser console errors, and backend code.

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7. Updates and Version Control

Keep track of any updates made to the short codes. This is especially important when short codes are updated or new ones are introduced. Include:

• Version History: A changelog for each short code, documenting when changes were made, what was added, modified, or fixed, and who made the changes.
• Release Notes: Notes on major updates, new parameters, deprecated features, and any relevant information employees need to know for ongoing use.

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8. Conclusion

The Short Code Library document should serve as the go-to reference for employees when working with short codes, ensuring smooth integration, effective use, and troubleshooting. By including clear explanations, usage examples, best practices, and troubleshooting guidelines, the document will empower both technical and non-technical team members to use short codes to their full potential in creating dynamic and functional content.

This library will be a key resource throughout the lifecycle of SCMR-4, helping employees maximize the impact of short codes within the SayPro platform.