How to Add a Progress Bar to WordPress: A Comprehensive Guide

Adding a progress bar to your WordPress website can enhance the user experience by providing visual feedback, particularly useful for lengthy processes such as customer order fulfillment. However, finding reliable plugins can be challenging, as many are full of bugs or outdated. In this guide, we will explore different methods to add a progress bar to your WordPress site, ensuring you get the best results with minimal hassle.

Introduction to Progress Bars in WordPress

A progress bar is a visual element that shows the user the status of a process or task. Common applications include showing the progress of a customer order, loading content, or completing a form. In a WordPress context, adding a progress bar can improve user engagement and reduce frustration.

Method 1: Using a Progress Bar Plugin

The most straightforward way to add a progress bar to your WordPress site is by using a plugin. Wizhi’s Progress Bar is a popular choice among users. Here’s how you can install and use it:

Head to the WordPress plugin repository and search for Wizhi Progress Bar. Click on the Install Now button and activate the plugin once it’s installed. Go to the plugin settings and configure your progress bar as needed. Drop the shortcode into any post or page where you want the progress bar to appear.

While Wizhi’s Progress Bar is a great option, it's essential to check for reviews and updates to ensure it works well with your current WordPress version and other plugins you are using.

Method 2: Custom HTML and CSS with Code Snippets

For those who require more customization or prefer a more hands-on approach, you can use custom HTML and CSS with the Code Snippets plugin. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Install and activate the Code Snippets plugin. In the snippets list, click on the Add New button to create a new snippet. Add the following HTML and CSS code:

.progress-bar {
  width: 100%;
  background-color: #f3f3f3;
  border: 2px solid #e7e7e7;
  border-radius: 3px;
  overflow: hidden;
}
.progress-fill {
  height: 20px;
  width: 40%;
  background-color: #4caf50;
  border-radius: 3px;
}
]]>

Add a JavaScript function to update the progress bar dynamically:

  function updateProgressBar() {
    var progressBar  document.querySelector('.progress-bar');
    var progressBarFill  document.querySelector('.progress-fill');
      '50%'; // Adjust the width according to your needs
  }
]]>

Call the function to update the progress bar as needed. This can be done through a custom shortcode or by triggering it manually via a button click.

This method provides more flexibility and can be integrated with various processes, such as customer order fulfillment or form submissions.

Method 3: Using a Page Builder Widget

If you prefer a more visual approach, page builders like Elementor offer widgets that can be easily added to your site. Elementor’s progress bar widget is a handy tool for adding progress bars to your pages and posts:

Install and activate the Elementor page builder. Navigate to the page or post where you want to add the progress bar. Click on the Add Element button and search for Progress Bar. Configure the progress bar settings, such as the total steps and current step. Position the progress bar as desired and save your changes.

Using a page builder widget can save you time and effort, especially if you are already familiar with page builders. However, it may not offer the same level of customization as using custom HTML and CSS.

Conclusion

Adding a progress bar to your WordPress site can greatly enhance user experience, particularly for tasks such as customer order fulfillment. While there are many plugins available, custom HTML and CSS with the Code Snippets plugin offer more flexibility and accuracy. Page builders like Elementor can be a quick and easy solution for adding progress bars to your site.

When choosing a method, consider your project requirements, technical skills, and the need for customization. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully add a progress bar to your WordPress site and improve the overall user experience.