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UChat Official
Introduction
In this detailed overview, we explore the process of creating and managing custom menus within Pattern Settings.
This feature empowers users to personalize their navigation experience by adding custom links, icons, and embedded content.
Whether you want to link to your training resources, membership portals, help documentation, or external websites, this guide provides step-by-step instructions, best practices, and troubleshooting tips to maximize flexibility and functionality.
Overview of Custom Menus
What Are Custom Menus?
Custom menus are personalized navigation links that you can add to your platform's sidebar or menu bar. They allow you to:
Insert links to your own software, documentation, or external sites.
Add icons for visual clarity.
Configure link behavior, such as opening in an iframe or a new tab.
Order menu items for optimal user experience.
Why Use Custom Menus?
Enhance user navigation by providing quick access to important resources.
Integrate external tools seamlessly within your platform.
Improve branding with custom icons and links.
Increase flexibility in content presentation.
Step-by-Step Process for Adding Custom Menus
1. Access Pattern Settings
Navigate to your platform's Pattern Settings where menu customization is managed.
2. Add a New Menu Item
Click on "Add New" or similar button.
Enter the name of your menu item, e.g., Help Documentation.
Select the icon:
Search for an icon by name.
If none are available, upload your own.
3. Upload Custom Icons
Prepare your icon in PNG or GPG format.
Upload the icon to your Cloudinary or media library.
Copy the URL of the uploaded icon.
Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
1 | Upload icon | Use PNG or GPG format |
2 | Copy URL | For use in menu settings |
4. Configure Link Details
Paste the URL of your resource (e.g., help documentation).
Choose embed type:
iframe: Embeds content directly within the platform.
Open in new tab: Opens resource externally.
Adjust order to position the menu item appropriately.
5. Save and Preview
Save your settings.
Reload your workspace to see the new menu item appear.
Test the link:
If embedded via iframe, content loads within the platform.
If not supported, the link opens in a new tab.
Practical Examples and Use Cases
Example 1: Adding a Help Documentation Link
Icon: Search for a help or info icon.
Link: Your help documentation URL.
Embed: Keep as iframe for seamless integration.
Behavior: If iframe fails, set to open in a new tab.
Example 2: Linking to Membership Portal
Icon: User or lock icon.
Link: Membership site URL.
Order: Place before billing options.
Behavior: Open in a new tab for external site.
Example 3: Embedding Web Chat
Embed your web chat widget directly into the platform.
Use custom menu with iframe embedding.
Enhance user engagement without leaving the platform.
Troubleshooting and Best Practices
Issue | Solution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Iframe not displaying content | Check if the target website supports iframe embedding. | Some sites restrict iframe embedding for security reasons. |
Link opens in same tab | Set link behavior to open in a new tab. | Use the configuration options to change behavior. |
Icons not displaying | Ensure icon URL is correct and in supported format. | PNG or GPG preferred. |
Multiple menus overlapping | Adjust order numbers to organize menu items. | Use sequential order for clarity. |
Tips for Success
Use high-quality icons for professional appearance.
Test links thoroughly across browsers.
Keep URLs updated to avoid broken links.
Leverage variables for dynamic content if supported.
Document your customizations for team reference.
Summary Table of Key Features
Feature | Description | Customization Options |
|---|---|---|
Adding Links | Insert URLs to internal or external resources | Text, icons, order, target behavior |
Icons | Visual identifiers for menu items | Upload custom icons or select from library |
Embed Content | Display content within platform | iframe or open in new tab |
Order Management | Arrange menu items | Numeric order values |
Behavior Settings | Control how links open | iframe or new tab |
Final Thoughts
Custom menus significantly enhance the user experience by providing tailored navigation and integrated content. They offer flexibility to showcase your own resources, external tools, or interactive elements like embedded web chats. Proper setup involves uploading icons, configuring links, and choosing the appropriate display method. Always test your configurations to ensure compatibility and usability.
Remember: Well-organized menus improve accessibility and efficiency, making your platform more intuitive and professional. If you encounter issues, consult support or documentation, and keep your links and icons updated for optimal performance.
Summary
Thank you for exploring the comprehensive process of customizing menus within Pattern Settings. Implementing these features allows you to personalize your platform, streamline user navigation, and embed valuable resources directly into your workspace. For further assistance, reach out to support, and stay tuned for more tutorials to enhance your platform's capabilities.