Understand Nilead Extension System

TL;DR / Overview

Nilead’s Extension system is the backbone of dynamic content on the platform. It allows you to define custom objects (e.g., Events, Classes, Listings) by building on core objects like Product, Content, or Person. With Extensions, you’re not limited to predefined templates — you can create exactly what your website needs, from alumni directories to custom product types, complete with fields and relationships.

Prerequisites

• A Nilead account with Super Admin or Developer-level access

• Basic understanding of object-based data structures (helpful, not required)

• Familiarity with your website’s content needs and structure

• Access to the CMS → Extensions area in your admin panel

Walkthrough

What Is an Extension?

Think of an Extension as a custom content type — a way to create and manage structured content that your site needs, which isn’t covered by the default core objects.

At a technical level, an Extension is built on top of a core object such as:

• Product (for items that can be purchased)

• Content (for blogs, articles, pages)

• Person (for user/member-related items)

It inherits everything from the core object — including default fields like title, status, created date — while letting you add your own custom fields and define relationships.

Why Extensions Matter

Most systems define a static set of content types. But every business is different.

• A law firm might need Case Studies and Attorneys.

• A school needs Classes, Students, and Galleries.

• A real estate site may require Properties, Agents, and Locations.

Extensions give you this flexibility — without needing custom code or plugins.

What Can You Add to an Extension?

When defining an Extension, you can add:

• Text fields: plain text, rich text

• Link: internal or external link

• Numeric fields: numbers, prices, percentages

• Datetime: datetime picker

• Switch: yes/no toggles

• Color: color picker

• Choices: dropdowns with predefined options

• Media fields: images, files

• Reference fields: link to another extension (e.g., “Author” linking to a Person object)

Inheritance & Display

• Your new Extension still behaves like the base object.

  • A “Course” built on Product is still purchasable.

  • A “Team Member” built on Person still has contact info.

• Extensions are queryable, filterable, and displayable anywhere you need via widgets or dynamic templates.

Access Control & Limitations

⚠️ Note:
The Extension system is hidden by default for non-super admin roles due to its power and complexity. Please enable access only for trained users or developers.

FAQs

1. Why can't I see the Extension feature in my account?

The Extension system is only available to Super Admin or Developer roles. Contact your administrator if you need access.

2. What happens if I delete an Extension?

Deleting an Extension will remove all its data. Make sure to back up or export any critical data before deletion.

3. Can I change the core object of an existing Extension?

No. Once an Extension is created and tied to a core object (e.g., Product), that base cannot be changed. You'll need to recreate the Extension if needed.

4. How do I show Extension data on my website?

Use dynamic widgets, conditional logic blocks, or custom layouts to display Extension data. Our Visual Builder supports linking to Extension content.

5. Can Extensions be used in eCommerce setups?

Absolutely. Extensions built on Product support pricing, inventory, and checkout by default.