The Drop Times: Drupal Usage in Top Universities Worldwide: A Progress Report and Seeking Support

A statistic on drupal.org states that 71% of the top 100 universities use Drupal, but the page lacks precise data or references to support this claim. Given that the education sector is one of Drupal's largest adopters, we at TheDropTimes have embarked on a project to validate and substantiate this claim with proper evidence. This initiative was suggested by Kevin Reynen (University of Colorado). While attending a Higher Education Conference, he noted the frequent citation of this statistic and its lack of supporting data. He proposed a broader definition of Drupal usage in universities, encompassing not just their homepages but any of their websites. Prompted by Reynen's observations, TheDropTimes began a project to collect data on the top 300 global universities, as ranked by QS, focusing on their use of Drupal.

Event Organizers: Event Organizer Working Group 2023 Election Results

As per our charter, the EOWG opened elections in December for the one expiring seat.

Nominations were open for just over a month and we were extremely excited to have two highly-qualified nominees:

  • Mike Miles (mikemiles86) - New England Drupal Camp organizer and Boston Drupal Meetup group lead
  • Mike Richardson (richo_au) - DrupalSouth Treasurer and DrupalAsia Steering Committee chair

Nominations were closed after a month (with an extension due to the holidays) and voting took place from January 15-19. We conducted voting via Google Form, and ballots were open to anyone with a Drupal user ID. Everyone who voted was given issue credit for contributing to the decision.

With 44 votes submitted, Mike Richardson won with 66% of the votes.

Mike Richardson was informed of the result and accepted the position for a two-year term on the Board.

After internal discussion, the existing board also agreed to offer Mike Miles a non-voting position on our Advisory Committee.

We're excited to begin work with our new members - particularly in expanding the conversation outside of North America.

The Board would also like to extend our deepest thanks to Matthew Saunders for serving two terms with us. Matthew has been an invaluable source of guidance from our formation to ongoing issues surrounding organizational structures and processes. We appreciate his time so far, and his continued dedication as an advisor.

Get involved with the Event Organizers

The Event Organizers Working Group supports community-led teams to grow Drupal through local events. Stay connected with the event organizer community:

  • Join the #event-organizers channel in the Drupal Slack workspace
  • Join our monthly open meetings in #event-organizers, the
    2nd Tuesday of the month starting at 16:00 UTC / 11:00 am ET
  • Jump into our Issue Queue

Specbee: Understanding Drupal Configuration Synchronisation

Imagine you’re adding a new feature to your Drupal site, like a Mailchimp module that integrates with your contact form. Now that you have set it up, you want to move it to staging and then production. How do you maintain consistency across environments and ensure it is configured the same way all the way across? Don’t worry! Drupal comes to developers’ rescue with its robust Configuration Synchronization system. This fantastic feature lets you effortlessly export the setup and import the settings between different instances of a Drupal website. In this blog post, we'll delve into the nuances of Drupal Configuration Sync, exploring the process, best practices, and strategies to master this essential aspect of Drupal development. What is Drupal Configuration Synchronization Drupal Configuration Synchronization is a feature in the Drupal content management system that allows you to manage and deploy configuration changes across different environments in a structured and efficient manner.  The Configuration Manager core module helps manage everything related to configuration. Configuration in Drupal includes settings, content types, views, fields, and other elements that define the behavior and appearance of your website. Understanding Drupal Configuration Before diving into Configuration Synchronization, it's crucial to understand what constitutes "configuration" in Drupal. The configuration of a Drupal site includes site settings, content types, views, fields, and other components that define its structure and behavior. This separation between configuration and content allows for more efficient management of site elements. Configuration Management System in Drupal Drupal's Configuration Management System serves as the backbone for handling configuration changes. It facilitates the export, import, and deployment of configurations between different instances of a Drupal site. This systematic approach ensures a seamless transition of settings and structures across various environments (e.g., from a development environment to a staging or production environment). The Config file locations are mapped in the settings.php file, It is recommended to have the configuration files out of the root directory. $settings['config_sync_directory'] = '../config/sync';Configuration Workflow The configuration workflow typically involves making changes on a development site, exporting those changes, and then importing them into other environments. The goal is to keep the configuration consistent across all environments to ensure a smooth and predictable user experience. Configuration Export You can export configuration changes using the Drupal admin interface or Drush (Drupal Shell). The exported configuration is stored in YAML files, which are human-readable and version-controlled. In your root directory, enter the below command drush cexThe above command gives you the list of configuration files you have worked on, which will be exported as yml files. Once you say ‘yes’ to this command, all the configurations will be generated as yml files. You will then need to add those configurations and push them to the staging environment via Git or any version control tools. Configuration Import Configuration can be imported into another Drupal instance, such as a staging or production site. This process ensures that the configuration is synchronized across different environments. Importing configuration can be done through the admin interface or Drush. Drush cim:The above command will help us import all our configurations to the staging or production environment from the development environment.   Once we say ‘yes’ to this command, all those configurations will be exported to the respective environment. Review and Deployment Leverage the Configuration Management Interface to review and selectively deploy configuration changes. This step is crucial for maintaining control over what gets applied to each environment. Drupal provides tools to track and manage configuration changes. The Configuration Management Interface allows you to review and deploy configuration changes selectively. This image shows how the configuration differs between the respective environments. We can find it at this location -> /admin/config/development/configuration Configuration Synchronization Strategies Depending on your project's needs, you may choose different strategies for configuration synchronization. For example, you might have a single master environment where configuration changes are made and then synchronized to other environments, or you might have a more distributed approach where each environment can make and synchronize its own changes. Centralized Master Environment Implement a single master environment where all configuration changes are made. Changes can then be synchronized to other environments, ensuring consistency across the board. Distributed Development Allow each environment to make and synchronize its own configuration changes. This approach provides more autonomy to individual teams working on specific aspects of the project. Best Practices for Configuration Synchronization It is crucial to follow best practices for configuration synchronization, such as: Version Control: Use version control systems like Git to track and manage configuration changes. This facilitates collaboration among developers and provides a history of alterations. Documentation: Document configuration changes thoroughly. This documentation aids in understanding the purpose of each change, making it easier for developers to collaborate and troubleshoot. Regular Testing: Testing regularly ensures that changes won't disrupt the live site and helps identify potential issues early in the process. Selective Synchronization: When deploying configurations, opt for selective synchronization to avoid unintended consequences. This allows for a more controlled and targeted application of changes. Final Thoughts Drupal Configuration Synchronization is extremely useful for developers to speed up their projects. By following best practices, understanding the workflow, and implementing effective strategies, you can ensure a seamless Drupal development process. Got a Drupal project in mind? Our team of Drupal experts can help you make it happen. Contact us today for a free consultation.   

DrupalEasy: DrupalEasy Podcast S16E3 - Andy Giles - GitHub Copilot

We talk with Andy Giles about GitHub Copilot and his experience with it in Drupal development.

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Podcast edited by Amelia Anello.
 

Talking Drupal: Talking Drupal #435 - UI Suite initiative

Today we are talking about web design and development, from a group of people with one thing in common… We love Drupal. This is episode #435 UI Suite initiative.

For show notes visit: www.talkingDrupal.com/435

Topics
  • Elevator Pitch
  • What do you mean by implementing design systems
  • Is this to thel themers or site builders
  • What is the expected outcome
  • The project page says initiative, but this is not on the community initiatives page, is this an intitiative
  • How does this implement public design systems
  • Does this work with Single Directory Components
  • Youtube Channel
  • Getting involved
  • Roadmap
  • Use cases
  • Do you see this going into core
Resources Guests

Pierre Dureau - LinkedIn pdureau

Hosts

Nic Laflin - nLighteneddevelopment.com nicxvan John Picozzi - epam.com johnpicozzi

MOTW Correspondent

Chris Wells - chrisfromredfin

  • Brief description:
    • Have you ever wanted simple but accessible dropdown navigation on your Drupal website? There’s a module for that.
  • Module name/project name:
  • Brief history
    • How old: created in Nov 2022 by Jay Huskins of Redfin Solutions
    • Versions available: 2.1.5 which works with Drupal 9 and 10
  • Maintainership
    • Actively maintained, most recent commit is less than a month ago
    • No Test coverage at this point
    • Documentation - via README.md
    • Number of open issues: 2, neither of which are bugs
  • Usage stats:
    • 29 sites
  • Maintainer(s):
    • Jay Huskins, with support from Redfin
  • Module features and usage
    • Provides a new menu block that includes markup for disclosure buttons, that make it easier for users on assistive devices to navigate drop-down menus
    • Activating the button will toggle the visibility of nested menu items
    • Also includes ARIA labels to provide clarity around what the buttons do
    • Worth mentioning that Drupal’s Olivero theme also includes disclosure buttons in its mWe’ll also cover Disclosure Menu as our module of the week.
    • Guest Introenus, but there isn’t a straightforward way to pull the menus implemented there into your custom theme
    • Also had a write-up in the Drupal advent calendar we talked about last month, so listeners can also check that out if they want more information

The Drop Times: Wrapping Up the First Month of 2024

Dear Reader,

As we bid farewell to the inaugural month of the new year, we find ourselves standing at the intersection of introspection and eagerness. With its promise of renewal and a clean slate, January has set the stage for the unfolding chapters of the coming months. It's a time marked by resolutions, goal-setting, and embracing the boundless possibilities.

In reflecting on this initial chapter, let's take a moment to assess our achievements, acknowledge progress, and eagerly anticipate the challenges and triumphs on the horizon. The journey of the year has only just begun, and the unwritten pages of our story beckon with anticipation.

As January gracefully transitions into February, the closure of the Global Contribution Weekend in the Drupal community symbolizes a significant close to an impactful month. Here is a compilation of Drupal Contribution Weekend celebrations that occurred across the globe. Nico Grienauer has an explainer of what this event is. 

As we bid farewell to January, the Drupal Community sets its sights on a month steeped in celebration. Often hailed as the month of love, February encourages us to bask in the warmth of connections and expressions of affection. With numerous global events, Drupal is poised to embrace the heartwarming spirit of togetherness.

Now, let's shift focus and explore some of the latest news stories and articles we covered last week.
Kazima recently engaged in a compelling interview with Fran Garcia-Linares, Senior Drupal Developer at the Drupal Association. During the interview, Fran discussed the Association's strategic initiatives, including migrating from Drupal 7 to Drupal 10 and spearheading the GitLab Acceleration initiative. Additionally, Kazima delivered comprehensive coverage of the latest developments and insights from Drupal Mountain Camp 2024.

Acquia has exciting webinars lined up. On February 7, 2024, they will host "Mastering Your DAM Strategy and Governance Plan for 2024 and Beyond," aiding businesses in navigating asset demands through digital asset management (DAM) solutions. Additionally, on January 29, 2024, at 12:15 pm EST, Acquia will delve into "Navigating the AI Labyrinth: Security & Compliance in Modern DXPs and CMSs."

Jesse Loseberg leads an A11yTalk session on February 08, 2024, at 01:30 PM (ET), titled "The Accessibility Mindset: Moving Beyond Remediating, Fixing, and Reacting." and at the Florida DrupalCamp on February 24, 2024, from 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm, Steve Wirt of CivicActions explores "Unraveling the Clues to Effective Drupal Site Documentation," tailored for developers, project managers, content designers, system architects, and UX designers.

Droptica's webinar, "The Future After Drupal 7: Exploring Alternatives and New Opportunities," is on February 22 at 3:00 pm CEST. Save the date for Drupalcamp Rennes on March 28-30, 2024, promising three days of Drupal Camp goodness. Stay updated with this week's Drupal events by checking the published list here.

NERD Summit 2024 has extended its session proposal deadline until all 40 session slots are filled. Additionally, the event offers sponsorship opportunities for keynote talks. For more details, check the provided link. DrupalSouth Sydney 2024, happening at the Sydney Masonic Centre from March 20 to 22, is a significant gathering for the Australian and New Zealand Drupal community. GitHub has opened its certification program to the public, offering individuals worldwide a chance to enhance their skills and credentials. Learn more at this link.

Splash Awards Australia and New Zealand are calling for submissions in 2024. Find more details here. Explore the details of the upcoming DrupalCon Portland, which features a dedicated marketing track. Find more information here.

Varbase 9.1.1 is now available, offering a patch (bugfix) release for Varbase 9 suitable for production sites. Created by Rajab Natshah, this release addresses issues and ensures smoother functionality. Also the PHP development team has released PHP 8.2.15 and PHP 8.3.2, introducing important updates and improvements to the widely used scripting language.

There are more stories available out there. But the compulsion to limit the selection of stories is forcing us to put a hard break on further exploration—happy Drupaling folks.

To get timely updates, follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

Thank you,

Sincerely
Elma John
Sub-editor, TheDropTimes.

mandclu: Prompt Engineering: Get the Most From Your Drupal Site's AI Integration

Mon, 01/29/2024 - 09:39 Image removed.

Prompt Engineering: Get the Most From Your Drupal Site's AI Integration

A recent analysis by the IMF estimates that 40% of jobs globally, or 60% of jobs in advanced economies, will be impacted by the growing adoption of AI. How will it impact your role? In my opinion the surest way to secure your place in these transformed economies will be by including AI in the toolset you use to stay competitive.

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Kyle Einecker|True Summit: Introducing the Search Web Components Module: A Better Way to Build Search Experiences

<p>Since Drupal 8 was released in 2015, I've launched my fair share of sites, and one common feature of those sites was a search page. Working mainly with healthcare and e-commerce businesses during that time, the sites I launched often required not just a site search but a catalog search, a find a location search, or a find a doctor search. With those additional searches came designs and requirements that I needed to convince Views, Search API, and Facets to do. Search API is great, Views is great, Facets is great, but combined, they've never worked as expected for me. Every time I build one of those experiences, it's a fight to meet the expectations of site owners. And I'm not alone. When you go to the Facets issue queue, you'll find many issues and comments reporting issues with facets.</p><p>Today, I am bundling up all my hard won search experience to introduce an easier, better way to build search experiences with Drupal. Search Web Components will take a whole class of search challenges and make it something Drupal just does instead of being a complex and time consuming part of a project.</p>

The Drop Times: Drupal's Future Excites and Warrants Consideration: Boyan Borisov

Dive into an illuminating conversation with Boyan Borisov, VP of Digital Solutions Europe at FFW, as he shares his journey as a Drupal enthusiast and his experiences with digital transformation. Discover his insights on Drupal's roadmap, transitioning to a unified multi-brand ecosystem, and the remarkable evolution of the Layout Builder.

LN Webworks: Top 9 Essential Drupal Caching Tips For Faster Website Performance

Image removed.

Ever found yourself wondering, 'Why is my Drupal site crawling at a snail's pace?' or contemplating ways to turbocharge your Drupal website performance? Essentially, what are the most efficient, budget-friendly, and quickest solutions to tackle those performance bottlenecks that are hindering your website's speed?

Fortunately, if your website is powered by Drupal 8 (and we assume it is), you're in for a treat with one of the most sophisticated caching systems available. The key lies in embracing Drupal caching best practices and leveraging its full potential.

Top 9 Essential Drupal Caching Tips

Let’s explore the top 9 Drupal caching best practices that promise to be the game-changer for your page load time. 

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