Chris Klosowski is a Software Developer at GoDaddy where his primary role is working on large-scale WordPress & BuddyPress installations. In his free time he is a WordPress plugin developer with numerous plugins on WordPress.org and Github. Chris is also the developer of WP-Push which integrates WordPress and plugins with the Pushover mobile app.
Chris currently resides in San Tan Valley, Arizona with his wife and son, and hails from Wyoming, MI.
He’ll be presenting Honey, I Shrunk the Logs.
Interview
Why do you use WordPress?
I use WordPress because of the myriad of plugins and themes available, and the willingness of the community to help out and solve problems or drum up new ideas.
When and how did you start using WordPress?
I started working with WordPress in 2005 when all I wanted to do was make a slight change to the Kubrick theme when new content was published.
That spawned into me writing my first plugin.
What tips or resources would you recommend to a new WordPress user?
My number one tip for new users, is get involved and don’t be a stranger.
The forums on WordPress.org are full of people in the community who want to help. While WordPress may be opensource, that doesn’t mean it’s without amazing (community provided) support.
Some helpful blogs are WPMayor.com, CopyBlogger.com, and Smashing Magazine.
If you are looking for developer resources, PippinsPlugins.com and WP TutsPlus.
What advice would you give someone who’s building a business around WordPress design or development?
Be social and give back (code or support). Just because your primary product is commercial, doesn’t mean they all have to be. Releasing some of the smaller projects or contributing to the projects of others is a great way to remain part of the community, why still being a business.
How do you stay informed about WordPress (news, tips, etc.)?
I have a pretty solid set of Twitter users that I follow for news including Pippin Williamson, Chris Lema, Brian Krogsgard, and most of the core dev team.
As far as blogs I tend to watch PostStat.us and TorqueMag.io for news. I also subscribe to the weekly email from WPMail.me. When I need developer tips I look towards PippinsPlugins.com, TomMcfarlin.com.
What’s a cool WordPress-based site you’ve seen recently?
As a developer, I have always liked QueryPosts.com (by @rarst). It just a quick way to get information about core functions.
What do you like most about WordCamps?
Getting to see all the people that I interact with on Twitter, the WordPress.org Forums, and IRC. Brainstorming in person is way better than online.
Where can we find you online?
My personal site is KungFuGrep.com. I typically write about software development (both WordPress and in general).
I am also the developer of WP-Push.com, a plugin and extensions to allow WordPress to interact with the Pushover Mobile App for iOS & Android.
On Twitter I am @cklosowski.
