Widget
Summary
Widgets are embeddable UI elements that allow you to integrate Zoho Writer with third-party applications seamlessly. They provide a way to design custom interfaces and add new features to Zoho Writer based on your requirements.
Overview
Widgets are:
- Embeddable UI components — Standalone interface elements you can place in Writer
- Integration tools — Connect Writer with third-party applications
- Customizable — Design your own interface according to needs
- Feature extenders — Add new functionality to Zoho Writer
Key Sections
1. Create Widget
Learn how to create widgets from scratch, configure them in plugin-manifest.json, and implement widget functionality using HTML and JavaScript.
Learn more about creating widgets →
2. Widget Locations
Understand where widgets can be placed within the Zoho Writer interface and how to specify widget locations in your extension configuration.
Learn more about widget locations →
Widget Development Workflow
Phase 1: Planning
- Determine widget purpose and functionality
- Identify target location in Writer interface
- Plan widget UI/UX design
Phase 2: Creation
- Create widget HTML file
- Configure widget properties in plugin-manifest.json
- Implement widget functionality with JavaScript
Phase 3: Location Specification
- Choose widget location(s) in Writer
- Configure location in manifest
- Support multiple locations if needed
Phase 4: Testing
- Test in Zoho Writer document
- Verify widget appearance and functionality
- Test multi-location scenarios if applicable
Phase 5: Publishing
- Publish extension with widget
- Monitor user feedback
- Update and improve based on usage
Key Concepts
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | Display name for the widget (can be duplicated) |
| Name | Unique identifier (must be unique) |
| Icon | Visual representation |
| Logo | Widget branding |
| Location | Where it appears in Writer |
| URL | Path to the widget HTML file |
Best Practices
- Naming Convention — Use clear, descriptive widget names
- UI Design — Keep interfaces simple and intuitive
- Location Strategy — Choose locations that make sense for the functionality
- Testing — Always test widgets in real Writer documents
- Documentation — Document widget purposes and features for users