=== Instant Knowledge Base ===
Contributors: 7thskysoftware  
Donate link: https://www.7thskysoftware.com/  
Tags: knowledge base, documentation, help center, FAQ, wiki, 
Requires at least: 4.9  
Tested up to: 6.9  
Requires PHP: 7.4  
Stable tag: 1.1.3  
License: GPL v2 or later  
License URI: https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html  
Plugin URI: https://7thskysoftware.com/wordpress-plugins/instant-knowledge-base/ 
Author URI: https://www.7thskysoftware.com/  

Create a fast, searchable knowledge base and docs in WordPress with AJAX search, FAQ schema, and analytics.

== Description ==

**Instant Knowledge Base** helps you launch a modern self-service help center in minutes, perfect for product docs, SaaS onboarding, internal SOPs, and FAQs. It includes a clean UI, **AJAX live search**, **FAQ schema for rich results**, role-based access, and flexible templates. Reduce tickets, improve CSAT, and keep answers consistent across your site.

== Highlights ==
- **AJAX live search & filters** for instant results.
- **Custom post type** for structured articles plus **Help Topics (categories)**.
- **FAQ system with Google FAQ schema** for SEO-friendly snippets.
- **Role-based access** (global + per-article overrides).
- **Related & most-viewed articles**, **breadcrumbs**, and **icons** for topics.
- **Fully responsive** and theme-friendly.
- **Shortcode** to embed anywhere: `[instant_knowledgebase]`.

==Why it’s different==
- Built for **speed and clarity** (reduces support friction).
- Thoughtful **privacy/GDPR** controls (analytics respect consent).
- Templates for home, category, and single views; additional layouts are available in the separate Pro add-on.


==⭐ WALK-THROUGH: Instant Knowledge Base Tutorial==
Learn how to install, activate, and configure your knowledge base with our easy step-by-step guide.

https://youtu.be/IZZ_anhY97E



===Knowledge Base Features===
- Unlimited KB Articles: Create an unlimited number of KB articles
- Unlimited FAQs: Create Modern & SEO Schema FAQs
- Modern, responsive layout
- Custom post type for Knowledge Base Articles
- Help Topics (categories) + hierarchy
- Typography (Google Fonts):
- Real-time **AJAX search** and filters
- Unified Shortcode: `[instant_knowledgebase]`
- Related and Most Viewed articles
- Like/Dislike feedback
- Breadcrumbs and topic icons
- Role-based access (global + per-article)
- Category visibility controls & empty-category options
- **Custom article & Help Topic ordering** for a structured homepage and categories

== Go PRO for additional features ==

- **Layout Designs:** 4+ professionally designed layouts you can instantly switch between and customize to match your brand.
- **Advanced analytics dashboard:**  Track searched keywords, missing content, engagement, and article performance to optimize your KB.
- **Conversion Funnels & Automated Insights:** Identify drop-off points, user intent, and improvement opportunities with smart automated insights.
- **Advanced search UI:** Includes dropdown search, live suggestions, instant search results, and more.
- **Hero section builder:** Customize your KB hero section, with colors, backgrounds, animations, and advanced options. 
- **Interactive checklists:** Add interactive checklists or single checkboxes inside articles for tutorials and workflows.
- **PDF export:** Export articles or full analytics reports with one click.
- **KB Widget** Add your knowledge base anywhere using the [ikbase_widget] shortcode. Give users quick search access with live, dropdown results right inside the page they’re on.
- **Video Section** Add video/tutorial section for the demo videos
- **Product sections & landing:** Multiple product lines, product-scoped help topics, and an optional product picker before the main knowledge base.


==👨‍💻 Help Center & Support==

Need help setting up? Want to explore features or request support?

- 📘 [Full Documentation](https://7thskysoftware.com/knowledge-base/)
- 🎥 [YouTube Video Tutorials](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLer8JCsTREH_HsGTkBBOsHjzZ01fo2qwy)
- 💬 [Support Forum on WordPress.org](https://wordpress.org/support/plugin/instant-knwledgebase/)
- 🌐 [Plugin Homepage](https://7thskysoftware.com/wordpress-plugins/instant-knowledge-base/)

==💙 Love Instant Knowledgebase?==

If this plugin saves you time or improves your support process, show your support:

- ⭐ [Leave a 5-Star Review](https://wordpress.org/support/plugin/instant-knwledgebase/reviews/#new-post)
- 📺 [Subscribe to our YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@7thskywp)

== Screenshots ==

1. **Default Template (Free) – Home Page** Search bar and categories layout
2. **Default Template (Free) – Category Page** – Clean category layout
3. **Default Template (Free) – Single Article Page** – Single Article layout for easy reading


== Installation ==

You can install the Instant Knowledgebase plugin in three ways:

= Automatic =
1. In **Plugins → Add New**, search for **Instant Knowledge Base**.
2. Click **Install Now**, then **Activate**.

= Upload =
1. Download the ZIP.
2. Go to **Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin**.
3. Upload the ZIP, **Install Now**, then **Activate**

---

== Frequently Asked Questions ==
= How do I display the knowledge base on my site? =
Use the [instant_knowledgebase] shortcode on any WordPress page or post to display the knowledge base.

= Can I restrict access to certain users? =
Yes. You can enable user-role restrictions from Settings > Knowledge Base to control who can view articles.

= Is this plugin mobile-friendly? =
Yes, it is fully responsive and optimized for smartphones and tablets.

= Can I customize the look and feel? =
Absolutely. You can apply custom CSS or override the plugin's templates to match your site's branding.

= Does it include article analytics? =
Yes. Built-in view counters, like/dislike feedback system, and comprehensive analytics dashboard help track user engagement.

= Can I import or export articles? =
Yes. The plugin includes import/export functionality for easy backup and transfer of knowledge base content.

= Does this plugin support FAQs? =  
Yes. From v1.0.5, you can enable a dedicated FAQ system with schema markup for SEO.  

= Can I hide certain categories? =  
Yes. Categories can be hidden or shown on the frontend from category settings (new in 1.0.5).  

= Can I hide empty categories? =  
Yes. There’s a global option in **Basic Settings** to show/hide empty help topics.  

= Does it include analytics? =  
Yes. The free plugin includes basic counters, feedback, and admin analytics summaries. Advanced analytics, funnels, and external integrations (GA4, Mixpanel) are provided by the separate Pro add-on.  

= Can I use the widget anywhere? =  
The KB widget shortcode (`[ikbase_widget]`) is provided by the separate Pro add-on.

= Can I change the terms "Articles" and "Categories"? =
Yes. You can rename "Articles" to "Knowledge Base" and "Categories" to "Help Topics" in the settings.

= How do I organize articles? =
Articles can be grouped using help topics (formerly categories) for better organization and navigation.

= Can I control access per article? =
Yes. You can set access permissions globally or override them on a per-article basis.

= What happens when I uninstall the plugin? =
The plugin provides options to retain or remove data, giving you more control during uninstallation.

= What analytics features are available? =
The free plugin includes view counts, feedback, and admin analytics summaries. Advanced analytics and exports are provided by the separate Pro add-on.

= Can I use custom fonts? =
Yes. The free plugin supports core typography settings. Additional typography options (including more Google Fonts controls) are provided by the separate Pro add-on.

= Are there premium templates available? =
Yes. Additional layouts (Help Center Modern, Opt-in Focus v2, Content Focus, etc.) are provided by the separate Pro add-on.

---

== Changelog ==

= 1.1.3 – 2026-04-12 =
* Fix: Reliable Layout saves with Pro using one layout field and deferred submit handling.
* Change: Removed duplicate Help Center hero and Opt-in search fields; use General settings instead.
* Improvement: Bug fixes and minor improvements.

= 1.1.2.1 =
* Fix: Product-based organization now works consistently as a Pro-only feature in the free core plugin..
* Improvement: Moved inline scripts and styles into shared assets; removed all literal <script> and <style> tags.

= 1.1.2 =
* Moved remaining Pro settings ownership out of core and into Pro extension hooks
* Fixed Product taxonomy bootstrap so Product sections register correctly again
* Updated the Upgrade page link to the current Instant Knowledge Base product page
* Cleaned dead legacy hero and product admin callbacks from core settings
* Improved free and Pro runtime separation for shortcode and hero behavior
* Fix: Escaped shortcode article links, titles, and excerpts for safer frontend output
* Fix: Hardened JSON-LD and JSON export output with safer wp_json_encode() defaults
* Fix: Hardened admin settings request handling with nonce verification, unslashing, and stricter input sanitization
* Fix: Added nonce protection to category term metadata and Product assignment save handlers
* Fix: Normalized AJAX request validation for search, ratings, category loading, and analytics session tracking
* Fix: Improved frontend query parameter handling for product filters, breadcrumbs, templates, and search routing
* Fix: Secured article access and taxonomy meta box saving with verified nonces and validated IDs

= 1.1.1 =

*  Improved fonts and text styles across articles, FAQs, and search for a consistent reading experience
*  Refined layout and spacing for better readability on all screen sizes, including wide monitors
*  Enhanced live search with faster results, cleaner UI, and improved accuracy
*  Fixed search issues and removed duplicate or conflicting search processes
*  Improved navigation with clearer categories, hierarchy, and sidebar structure
*  Fixed multiple bugs affecting icons, templates, and overall stability


= 1.1.0 =

*  Feature: Added Analytics Dashboard with article views, searches, popular articles, and feedback stats
*  Feature: "Was this helpful?" feedback added to articles and FAQs
*  Feature: Hero Background toggle added for the knowledge base header
*  Feature: Added Pro Video Tutorials section for PRO Version
*  Improvement: Cleaner search bar design and more consistent layouts
*  Improvement: Better readability when Hero Background is disabled
*  Fix: Article view counts now work correctly without the Pro plugin
*  Fix: Improved compatibility and stability when using the Pro plugin
*  Improvement: General performance, security, and WordPress compliance updates
*  Product sections and Product Landing Page are provided by **Instant Knowledge Base Pro** (not in the free plugin).
*  [Premium] Improved Pro update handling and reliability

= 1.0.9 =

*  UI Enhancement: Modern Search Interface & Improved User Experience for default Layout Design
*  UI Enhancement: Default layout homepage improvement with configurable Frequently Read Articles visibility and position
*  UI Enhancement: Moved Universal Hero Section Settings to dedicated Hero Section tab in settings menu
*  Tweak: Optimized search bar spacing and padding for improved readability
*  Update: Compatibility update to WP version 6.9


= 1.0.8 =

*  Feature: Style-specific FAQ templates – all FAQ URLs now support style selection (Default, Compact, Content Focus)
*  Feature: FAQ category taxonomy templates – complete template system for FAQ category pages (`/faq-category/`)
*  Feature: Compact style FAQ templates – archive, single, and category templates with modern gradient design
*  Feature: Enhanced FAQ breadcrumb system – automatically includes "Knowledge Base > FAQ > Category" hierarchy
*  Feature: Fallback content processing function – ensures compatibility when the Pro plugin is not active
*  Feature: Complete separation of premium features into a standalone Pro plugin
*  Feature: Added complete French (France) translation with 30+ translated strings
*  Feature: Added complete Spanish (Spain) translation with 30+ translated strings
*  Improvement: All FAQ templates follow consistent design standards matching article templates
*  Tweak: Related FAQs and category links added to single FAQ templates
*  Tweak: Search functionality integrated into all FAQ archive templates
*  Fix: Template hierarchy now properly supports all FAQ URLs (archive, single, category)


= 1.0.7 =
*  Fix: Minor bug fixes and improvements
*  Fix: Enhanced stability and performance optimizations

= 1.0.6 =
*  Fix: Shortcodes in article content now display as plain text instead of being executed
*  Feature: Article ordering within categories - set custom order numbers for articles (Premium)
*  Feature: Subcategories with parent category relationships - organize content hierarchically
*  Feature: Interactive checklists - add checkable task lists to articles (Premium)
*  Feature: Single checkboxes - add individual checkboxes anywhere in articles (Premium)
*  Improvement: Optimized article content spacing - reduced line spacing and list item spacing for better readability
*  Improvement: Updated default layout with clean "Was this helpful?" feedback system and simplified "Also Read" section
*  Feature: Customizable widget text - edit widget title and subtitle from Knowledge Base > Settings > Widget


= 1.0.5 =

*  Feature: Category visibility controls – hide or show help topics/categories on the frontend  
*  Feature: Admin interface – added “Frontend Visibility” dropdown in category editor  
*  Feature: Category list view – new “Visibility” column with status indicators  
*  Feature: Empty categories setting – option to show/hide empty help topics  
*  Feature: FAQ system – enable/disable from settings with dedicated categories  
*  Feature: Google FAQ structured data – proper schema markup for SEO rich snippets  
*  Feature: Default FAQ category – automatically created when FAQ system is enabled  
*  Feature: [Premium] Knowledge Base Widget `[ikbase_widget]` with customization options  
*  Feature: [Premium] Real-time analytics dashboard with live activity tracking  
*  Feature: [Premium] Conversion funnel tracking with visualization  
*  Feature: [Premium] External analytics integration with Google Analytics 4 (GA4) and Mixpanel  
*  Feature: [Premium] Automated insights and recommendations system  
*  Feature: [Premium] Widget-specific analytics tracking and performance monitoring  
*  Feature: [Premium] Advanced activity feed with user behavior visualization  

*  Tweak: Hidden categories are excluded from frontend but remain accessible via direct URL  
*  Tweak: Updated templates to support category filtering consistently  
*  Tweak: Empty category logic improved – global setting to hide them from frontend  
*  Tweak: FAQ SEO optimization – FAQs follow Google schema guidelines  
*  Tweak: [Premium] Widget – improved customization, responsive design, and AJAX search  
*  Tweak: Enhanced analytics database structure for real-time data and funnels  
*  Tweak: Improved error handling, debugging, and security for analytics endpoints  
*  Fix: Fixed real-time analytics data refresh and display issues  
*  Fix: Resolved conversion funnel visualization and loading problems  
*  Fix: Improved analytics tracking reliability and consistency  
*  Fix: Enhanced widget analytics with proper event tracking  



= 1.0.4 = 
*  Feature: [Premium] Content editor tools with code formatting and content boxes (Tip, Info, Warning)
*  Feature: [Premium] Media support with image, GIF, video, and iFrame embedding via WordPress Media Library
*  Feature: Image Lightbox – Click any editor-inserted image/GIF to open a fullscreen preview with next/previous navigation and keyboard support (Arrow keys, Esc)
*  Feature: [Premium] iFrame embedding with customizable dimensions and responsive design
*  Feature: Editor toolbar buttons for Tip, Info, Warning, GIF, Video, and iFrame now use icons for a cleaner, consistent UI
*  Feature: Automatic frontend styling for code blocks, content boxes, media elements, and iFrames
*  Fix: Import/Export – Improved reliability, added support for all settings, categories, and tags, and enhanced security checks
*  Tweak: Enhanced frontend styling with responsive design and dark theme support
*  Tweak: Improved import/export interface with clearer messages and better usability
*  Tweak: Rebranded footer text to “Powered by Seventh Sky” across templates and admin preview
*  Fix: Branding visibility logic – plugin credit is opt-in and controlled by an admin setting
*  Feature: Slug/Permalink improvement – you can now use a page at /knowledgebase without conflicts; the CPT archive auto-disables when a page with the same slug exists, while single article URLs remain at /knowledgebase/{article}. After creating/removing the page, re-save Permalinks to flush rewrites


= 1.0.3 = 

*  Feature: [Premium] Comprehensive analytics dashboard with search tracking, article performance, and user engagement metrics
*  Feature: [Premium] Advanced hero section builder with customizable backgrounds, animations, and content
*  Feature: [Premium] Premium templates (Help Center Modern, Opt-in Focus v2, Content Focus) with enhanced layouts
*  Feature: [Premium] GDPR compliance tools with customizable cookie consent banner
*  Feature: [Premium] Typography customization with Google Fonts integration
*  Feature: [Premium] Export/Import functionality for easy data management and backup
*  Feature: Article hierarchy system with sections, subcategories, and article types
*  Feature: Breadcrumb navigation for improved user experience
*  Feature: [Premium] PDF export functionality for reports and articles
*  Feature: [Premium] Performance tracking with scroll depth and time spent metrics
*  Feature: [Premium] Advanced search features including dropdown search and live suggestions
*  Tweak: Enhanced admin interface with improved settings organization
*  Tweak: Better mobile responsiveness across all templates
*  Tweak: Improved search algorithm for more relevant results
*  Tweak: Enhanced user role management and access controls
*  Fix: Various bug fixes and performance improvements
*  Fix: Improved compatibility with different WordPress themes
*  Fix: Enhanced security measures and data validation

= 1.0.2 = 
*  Feature: Added option to restrict knowledge base access to logged-in users. This can be set globally, with the option to override on individual articles.
*  Feature: Introduced import/export functionality for easier data management.
*  Feature: Added more user control during uninstallation.
*  Tweak: Renamed Articles to Knowledge Base.
*  Tweak: Renamed Categories to Help Topics.
*  Tweak: Improved UI/UX for a smoother user experience.
*  Fix: Minor bug fixes and performance enhancements.

= 1.0.1 =
*  Improvement: Enhanced relevance of search results.
*  Fix: Corrected search result alignment to better match theme settings.

= 1.0.0 =
*  Initial Release

== Upgrade Notice ==
This plugin is free. Additional features and premium support are available at:
https://7thskysoftware.com/instant-knowledge-base/