Extension:PackageForce

The idea for PackageForce is a special page in which templates, messages and other useful pages can be distributed in a package, e.g. an XML file to import the pages to a new wiki.

Scenario
A user creates a new wiki. But the user first lacks a wide assortment of templates, which he may have found useful using a popular wiki like Wikipedia. Simple templates such as  |  and '''

''' should become part of the new wiki, as they provide universal usefulness. But these simple templates are not all, the user may also be interested in complicated templates like   and   . These packages require a decent level of skill regarding template writing, but not as much skill to use them.

Copying them from Wikipedia without prior knowledge to their workings will often result in more damage than good.

Instead of sitting in this dead end scenario, PackageForce will introduce a special page where the user can download these templates along with instructions regarding what they require (e.g. if a template requires Extension:ParserFunctions) as well as including documentation for each template.

Layout
The special page for end users will simply include a list of packages (designed by the packageforce admin(s)), each of which will contain an array of packages (of course an 'all' packages will always be available and a 'custom' too). If 'custom' is selected, the entire list of all available templates and pages will appear to choose from.

Templates and more
Now, you wonder, what other than templates could the user want? Simple; messages. JavaScript functions. A function to create alternative highlights on an infobox? It may not be the most useful feature, but it is nice.

JavaScript functions will be kept apart for safe keeping, but will be compiled into a single file for Common.js unless skin specific.

Download instructions
You can download this extension via the MediaWiki extension distribution system, or via Wikimedia SVN.

Installation
Once you have the downloaded source in your wikis  folder, add: to your LocalSettings.php file.