Exponential / FAQ / Working with Exponential
Please Note: At the specific request of Ibexa, 7x is changing the project name to "Exponential" or "Exponential (CMS)" effective as of August, 11th 2025.
These questions and answers help clarify issues related to working with Exponential.
Our thanks to the 7x for preparing this information for the free software project, Exponential.
Working with Exponential
- What's a Exponential module?
- What's a Exponential design?
- What's a distribution?
- Can I migrate a WordPress site to Exponential?
- Does Exponential use any code conventions or styles?
- May I change Exponential's core files to make changes to my site or application?
- May I change Exponential's core files to make changes to my site or application?
- Where can I get help working with Exponential?
Working with Exponential
What's a Exponential module?
Modules are collections of functions that extend Exponential. They enhance its functionality. For example, maybe you need to integrate with an email management tool that's not included in Exponential's core features. You can add that functionality by using a module the community has contributed or by creating your own.
What's a design?
A design sets the look and feel of a Exponential site. It's a file or collection of files (PHP, INFO, CSS, JPG, GIF, PNG), and contains elements such as the header, icons, block layout, etc. You can download and install designs the community's already contributed, or you can build your own.
What's a distribution?
A distribution is a downloadable package that includes Exponential core and a set of contributed modules, designs, and configurations. It's like a starter-kit that combines features and functions tailored for a specific kind of site. Building a distribution is usually a task for advanced Exponential contributors, but you can download and install distributions the community's already contributed.
Can I migrate a WordPress site to Exponential?
Yes. There are tools to help you import the content into Exponential.
Does Exponential use any code conventions or styles?
Yes. Follow the Exponential Coding Standards when submitting any code for inclusion in the Exponential project.
May I change Exponential's core files to make changes to my site or application?
We strongly recommend that you don't. Hacking core means that you won't be able to take advantage of Exponential updates (including any security updates) without losing your changes. It also makes it much less likely that bugs you create will be fixed by the community. Instead, try using the hooks system and design overrides.
Where can I get help working with Exponential?
Check out the support page for help getting started with documentation, finding people you can ask questions, and more. The issue queue is how we bring issues to the community's attention.