The most recent version of the Kognetiks Chatbot for WordPress plugin has been released to the WordPress Plugin Directory. The latest release includes an extensive overhaul of the Support tab, a revision to the CSV export function for the Conversation Data, Interaction Data and Token Use Data reporting, and a reversion from a PHP 8 function to a PHP 7 function. These improvements, along with other “under the hood” updates continue to make the chatbot an invaluable addition to WordPress websites. So, let’s review what the update to Version 2.0.2 includes.
The New Support Tab
Supporting documentation for the chatbot has been completely overhauled – top to bottom. You’ll notice in the Chatbot Settings a link at the top of each one of the settings tabs. This link will take you to the appropriate section of the Support tab.
The documentation should provide you with detailed information describing the settings, the options you can choose and some additional commentary. The documentation consists of a group of Markdown files and images that provide explanations. This required programming a module that could traverse the documentation taking you to just the right spot.
If you click on the Support tab, you’ll see that you can choose from various groups of documentation that includes Getting Started, Official Site, FAQs and so much more.
Reorganizing the documentation will make for easier upkeep, additional information, and even the possibility of a video or two illustrating key features and functions.
I really like how this came together and I hope you do too.
Revised CSV Export Function
The revision to The CSV export functions for Conversation Data, Interaction Data, and Token Use Data should solve some problems reported where the export would not run. This may have been a result of using a particular function to output the CSV file. I’ve switched this up to use a WordPress native function.
The Conversation Data will give you insights into what questions your visitors are asking and the answers they are getting. The Interaction Data will help you gauge usage and adoption of the chatbot on your website. And finally, the Token Usage Data will help you keep an eye on costs.
I’ll be interested in learning if you have any further issues with exporting the data.
Other Under-the-hood Updates
With this release I have reverted the function “str_contains” to “strops” as the latter is only available in PHP 8. While many website are still running PHP 7.x and the “str_contains” function is not yet supported.
For a long time now I’ve been working in Visual Studio Code, and as many of you may know I’ve started working with PhpStorm. PhpStorm has a code review function that’s very good. However, in this case it recommended making a change in functions which resulted in some unintended consequences, i.e., it broke the plugin.
The lesson learned is program to the common denominator. PHP 1.0 was originally release in June of 1995. PHP 7.0 was released in December of 2015 – nearly nine years ago – with an end-of-life date of November 2022. The latest release PHP 8.0 came out two years before the EOF, arrived in November of 2020 or about three and half years ago. But some hosting services continue to run earlier versions. Nonetheless, thanks to some astute Discord users in the Kognetiks Support Channel the problem was identified and should now be resolved.
Keeping Up with Updates
Ensure that the Kognetiks Chatbot for WordPress plugin is up-to-date means that you can take full advantage of the latest features and improvements. Each update includes new functionalities, bug fixes, and address any security vulnerabilities, providing critical patches that protect your site from potential threats. By regularly updating the plugin, you will maintain optimal performance, stay ahead with innovative features, and safeguard your site’s integrity and security.
Thank You
Support for the Kognetiks Chatbot for WordPress plugin comes from nearly 2,000 active installations. I want to thank each of you who have taken the time to download and install the chatbot. Your feedback is incredibly valuable. Keep it coming as it helps me continually improve and provide a better experience for everyone. Thank you!
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About the Author
Stephen Howell is a multifaceted expert with a wealth of experience in technology, business management, and development. He is the innovative mind behind the cutting-edge AI powered Kognetiks Chatbot for WordPress plugin. Utilizing the robust capabilities of OpenAI's API, this conversational chatbot can dramatically enhance your website's user engagement. Visit Kognetiks Chatbot for WordPress to explore how to elevate your visitors' experience, and stay connected with his latest advancements and offerings in the WordPress community.
