# Opportunity to switch to Elements **URL:** \ **Category:** Elements\ **Created:** [May 20, 2025, 12:29pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/opportunity-to-switch-to-elements/47667 "2025-05-20T12:29:45Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 8\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![zdenek](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/zdenek/32/27017_2.png) [@zdenek](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/zdenek)\ **Post date:** [May 20, 2025, 12:29pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/opportunity-to-switch-to-elements/47667/1 "2025-05-20T12:29:45Z")
I have one question in particular for @Dan: I’m still wondering about the opportunity to switch from RWC to [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/). I have a site with a lot of photos (most of them uploaded directly to the host server) and if I have to switch to [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/), it will be a very long job to redo everything. I started from scratch and my site is multilingual and uses, among other stacks: Fondation, Total CMS, Swatches, SEO, Accordion, RWML base, Columnist, Vegas, Photo Pro base, Page Safe, Seams, HTML 5 video, Elevator, FormSnap base, … I’m keen to switch to a more ‘moderne’ tool, but I can see all the work that needs to be done. I’m not a developer, just a hobbyist and I do it for myself. Otherwise, what’s the future of staying with RWC? Will it evolve in parallel with [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) or not? If I switch to [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/), I suppose that will I be able to built-up my site in the same way as it is now. If so, which [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) formula I should go for? Can I ask your opinion by looking at [my site](https://www.zeyn.ch)? Thank you ---
**Author:** ![ben](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/ben/32/28488_2.png) [@ben](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/ben)\ **Post date:** [May 21, 2025, 8:48am UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/opportunity-to-switch-to-elements/47667/2 "2025-05-21T08:48:11Z")
Hi @zdenek, Great to hear you’re exploring a switch to **Elements** — I think you’ll find it a real breath of fresh air. The WYSIWYG editor in Elements is truly a game changer, especially if you’re coming from platforms that don’t offer a live editing experience. > [@zdenek](#): > > I started from scratch and my site is multilingual While **multilingual support** isn’t built into Elements _just yet_, it’s something we want to add in the future. In the meantime, you can absolutely create language-specific folders in your project and use **Globals** for shared content sections. Globals let you override not only design settings (colours, backgrounds, etc.) but also **text content** , which means you can tailor the same layout for different languages easily. If it helps, I’d be happy to create a quick demo showing how this can be done 🙂 > [@zdenek](#): > > Fondation, Total CMS, Swatches, SEO, Accordion, RWML base, Columnist, Vegas, Photo Pro base, Page Safe, Seams, HTML 5 video, Elevator, FormSnap base, … That’s quite a stack list — and I can imagine it came with a significant investment over time! The good news is that **many of those features are already built into Elements** , or planned for it. Here’s a quick breakdown: ### **🧱 Feature-by-feature comparison:** - **Foundation** → Elements is built on **Tailwind** , the most popular and modern CSS framework today. It offers everything Foundation does (and more), in a cleaner, more maintainable system. - **TotalCMS** → Our work-in-progress **CMS is built directly into Elements**. It’s a flat-file, markdown-based system that requires no setup. [Watch the Dev Diary previews](https://youtu.be/D3fdoQRlblc) for a glimpse of how it works. Just today we released a [preview of instant search](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/dev-diary-83-search-import-og-tags-the-cms-just-got-smarter/47678). - **Swatches** → I think the need for Swatches is eliminated in Elements. Styling is built right into the component system with a far more intuitive and consistent approach. - **SEO** → Elements includes a suite of SEO tools. If you have specific SEO needs, let us know — we can help guide you on best practices. - **Accordion** → Built-in! We have a modern, flexible [Accordion component](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1pfxSfHN5o) ready to use. - **Columnist** → Tailwind supports native CSS columns. Some users have already created free custom components using this — and we can help you set that up if needed. - **Photo Pro** → Elements includes a powerful **Gallery** component with support for remote/warehoused images — just drop in your images and it handles everything else. - **HTML5 Video** → Elements’ **Video** component supports MP4, YouTube, and Vimeo out of the box. - **FormSnap** → Elements has a robust set of **Form components** built-in. Add fields, configure your SMTP or webhook, and you’re good to go. > [@zdenek](#): > > I’m keen to switch to a more ‘moderne’ tool, but I can see all the work that needs to be done. That’s totally understandable — you’ve clearly put a lot of time and effort into your current setup. But rebuilding in Elements is a great opportunity to modernise your site and consolidate features in a cleaner, more future-proof system. > [@zdenek](#): > > what’s the future of staying with RWC? Will it evolve in parallel with [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) or not? We’re committed to supporting **RapidWeaver Classic** for the foreseeable future, especially for existing users. That said, we can’t speak to the future of third-party tools like Stacks, which are outside of our control. > [@zdenek](#): > > If I switch to [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/), I suppose that will I be able to built-up my site in the same way as it is now. Elements is a fresh start, built with modern tools — and yes, you’ll find a lot of familiar concepts from Classic. But you’ll also enjoy a more intuitive, flexible experience. Once you get hands-on with the live editor and built-in components, it’s hard to go back. > [@zdenek](#): > > If so, which [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) formula I should go for? If by “formula” you mean **plan** : - The most popular option is the **Plus** plan. - If you’re building and selling sites to clients, the **Pro** plan is the one to choose. You can view plan details here: [elementsapp.io/#buy-elements](https://elementsapp.io/#buy-elements) > [@zdenek](#): > > Can I ask your opinion by looking at [my site](https://www.zeyn.ch)? From what I can see, **most of it could be recreated in Elements** fairly quickly. The core features are either built-in or in active development. If you have any more questions — big or small — feel free to ask. We’re more than happy to help you make a smooth switch to Elements 🙂 ---
**Author:** ![zdenek](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/zdenek/32/27017_2.png) [@zdenek](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/zdenek)\ **Post date:** [May 21, 2025, 2:13pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/opportunity-to-switch-to-elements/47667/3 "2025-05-21T14:13:17Z")
Hi @ben, Thank you for your detailed answer. As I don’t develop anything for clients, but use RW for myself, what I invest is for my pocket (time included) 😉 [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) is certainly a modern way of creating sites. Switching to [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/), I’ll certainly be spending several months in parallel between Classic and [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) and will need to maintain my Classic version active. From this point of view, I have three questions: 1. If I switch my subscription to [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) and put my Classic subscription on hold, will I be able to update Classic version 9 for ‘minor’ changes or not? 2. The difference between the ‘Base’ and ‘Plus’ formula in terms of the number of components included: if I take the ‘Base’ formula, I’ll probably have to buy the extra components I’m interested in every time - correct? Are the components included in the “standard” [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) version (for exemples Gallery, TCMS, Video) in the 3+2 components mentioned in your formula ? ![Capture d’écran 2025-05-21 à 16.01.28](https://europe1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/uploads/realmacsoftware1/original/3X/5/5/559bf974a187f7f5138a6996f3abe6e04bb6852a.png) 3. I’m keeping my entire website in the host server. Do I need your cloud storage ? For which purpose this 1 GB could be used ? Compared to the list of stacks I mentioned in my previous post, I would certainly need several components for my site. ---
**Author:** ![dan](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/dan/32/28516_2.png) [@dan](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/dan)\ **Post date:** [May 21, 2025, 2:47pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/opportunity-to-switch-to-elements/47667/4 "2025-05-21T14:47:00Z")
Hey @zdenek, Totally understand where you’re coming from, and yes, I think working in parallel while you get to grips with [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) would be the way to go! > [@zdenek](#): > > 1. If I switch my subscription to [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) and put my Classic subscription on hold, will I be able to update Classic version 9 for ‘minor’ changes or not? You can cancel your Classic subscription and still get updates until your renewal date. > [@zdenek](#): > > 1. The difference between the ‘Base’ and ‘Plus’ formula in terms of the number of components included: if I take the ‘Base’ formula, I’ll probably have to buy the extra components I’m interested in every time - correct? Are the components included in the “standard” [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) version (for exemples Gallery, TCMS, Video) in the 3+2 components mentioned in your formula ? All the components you’ve seen us demo are included in all versions of [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/). The Base license just limits the amount of Globals and Custom Components you can create. By looking at your site, I’d say you should go for the Plus version of [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/). > [@zdenek](#): > > I’m keeping my entire website in the host server. Do I need your cloud storage ? For which purpose this 1 GB could be used ? This is just for backing-up and sharing your project(s), it’s not hosting. Once you start building in [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/), it’s hard to go back to the old ways of Classic. But if you give it a try and decide it’s not the right fit, no problem, I can give you a full refund, no questions asked. Hope that makes the decision easier for you 🙂 Cheers! ---
**Author:** ![zdenek](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/zdenek/32/27017_2.png) [@zdenek](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/zdenek)\ **Post date:** [May 21, 2025, 8:13pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/opportunity-to-switch-to-elements/47667/5 "2025-05-21T20:13:20Z")
Thank you @dan Could you please explain what Globals and Custom Components are ? Similar to third party development ? From my side, I do not foresee any personal development, but focus on what you guys are nicely proposing 😉 (as I do it with stacks for RWC). In case of a specific request - for exemple if I would have a colored curve under a text column (as the Seams stack does), would it be feasible and will you wish to enter into the matter? I have hundreds of ressources (mostly photos, video) directly uploaded to my host server in order to keep my RW file lighter (with [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/), I would go even farer and maximize the warehousing). In one of your video you explain how to design the web site with CMS. If I am not mistaken, you are using the local ressources. In case of warehousing, can I do it also easily? Will I need to open in parallel a second address in the host server during the building up? Also, how to do it for get the Classic abo on hold and to switch to [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) ? ---
**Author:** ![ben](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/ben/32/28488_2.png) [@ben](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/ben)\ **Post date:** [May 22, 2025, 7:37am UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/opportunity-to-switch-to-elements/47667/6 "2025-05-22T07:37:15Z")
> [@zdenek](#): > > please explain what Globals and Custom Components are ? **Globals** are reusable sets of components — perfect for things like headers, footers, banners, or call-to-actions that you want to use across multiple pages. If you update a Global, it updates everywhere it’s used. You can also override both the **design settings and content** , which makes them really flexible. 📺 Check out the [Globals documentation and video here](https://docs.realmacsoftware.com/elements-docs/elements-app/templates/global-templates) for a more in-depth explanation. **Custom Components** are like supercharged HTML stacks. You can create your own components — whether it’s embedding third-party code snippets or designing full custom [elements](https://elementsapp.io/) using the same styling controls used in built-in components. 📘 Learn more in the [Custom Components documentation](https://docs.realmacsoftware.com/elements-docs/elements-app/components/custom-components). > [@zdenek](#): > > In case of a specific request - for exemple if I would have a colored curve under a text column (as the Seams stack does), would it be feasible and will you wish to enter into the matter? Could you share a screenshot or a link showing exactly what you’re trying to achieve? In many cases, you can recreate these kinds of effects with the built-in components in [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) — especially using background layers, SVG shapes, or clever use of spacing. Once I see the design, I can suggest the best way to do it in [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) 🙂 > [@zdenek](#): > > In one of your video you explain how to design the web site with CMS. If I am not mistaken, you are using the local ressources. In case of warehousing, can I do it also easily? Yes! The **CMS is still in development** , but we hope to have a public beta available in the coming weeks. In most of the demos, I’m using local resources, but you can absolutely use **remote (warehoused) resources** too. Just enter the full URL of the image or video in to your CMS file, and it will “just work” 🙂 You can also right-click in the **Resources panel** and choose **“Add Remote Resource”** to add a linked reference. Just keep in mind: this will not import the file into your project — it will remain an external link. If you’re warehousing files yourself, you’re in full control of those resources. ![CleanShot 2025-05-22 at 09.31.14@2x](https://europe1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/uploads/realmacsoftware1/original/3X/3/2/32e141ca1c8ea7b40e4ecfc9cde35636c5aeb6b3.png) > [@zdenek](#): > > Also, how to do it for get the Classic abo on hold and to switch to [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) ? To make the switch: 1. **Cancel your RapidWeaver Classic subscription** — you’ll still be able to use the app, and you’ll continue to receive updates until your current billing period ends. 2. Then, go ahead and [purchase Elements](https://elementsapp.io/#buy-elements) — Our most popular plan is **Plus** , as it gives you **unlimited Globals** and **unlimited Custom Components**. Our [Billing Manager](https://realmac.onfastspring.com/account/) can help you cancel your Classic subscription. All you need is access to the email address you used when purchasing. Let us know if you have any further questions 🙂 ---
**Author:** ![zdenek](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/zdenek/32/27017_2.png) [@zdenek](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/zdenek)\ **Post date:** [May 22, 2025, 7:10pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/opportunity-to-switch-to-elements/47667/7 "2025-05-22T19:10:06Z")
> [@ben](#): > > > [@zdenek](#): > > > > In case of a specific request - for exemple if I would have a colored curve under a text column (as the Seams stack does), would it be feasible and will you wish to enter into the matter? > > Could you share a screenshot or a link showing exactly what you’re trying to achieve? > > Yes: ![Capture d’écran 2025-05-22 à 20.50.52](https://europe1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/uploads/realmacsoftware1/original/3X/e/9/e9c3eb1490ea76ab7f6ce0ace74f13ec44d16ca8.png) or ![Capture d’écran 2025-05-22 à 20.51.19](https://europe1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/uploads/realmacsoftware1/original/3X/0/2/024fdb2b5f647493b0b1b31e72c4dec998d99d7b.png) Using the Seams stack, I can add a curved surface below or above another container and with the same color for both of them, it generates a curved (not rectangular) colored part of the page For the remote ressources, is possible to use a batch - i.e. generate a folder in the host server and put several pictures inside, then, use only this folder as ressource address, so everything which is inside this folder will appear on the page? I’m using this for my dozens of photographs related to one subject. I could go on with other questions, but I think it would be wise to discuss them once I’m on [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/). I think you have a place to post requests and suggestions. > [@ben](#): > > Our [Billing Manager](https://realmac.onfastspring.com/account/) can help you cancel your Classic subscription. All you need is access to the email address you used when purchasing. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work for me. I’m not getting any emails back. This may be because my very first RW purchase was made under a different email address and although I’ve changed it in my profile, it may not be taken into account for accounting purposes. What should I do? ---
**Author:** ![differentdan](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/differentdan/32/33530_2.png) [@differentdan](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/differentdan)\ **Post date:** [May 22, 2025, 7:30pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/opportunity-to-switch-to-elements/47667/8 "2025-05-22T19:30:12Z")
> [@zdenek](#): > > Unfortunately, it doesn’t work for me. I’m not getting any emails back. This may be because my very first RW purchase was made under a different email address and although I’ve changed it in my profile, it may not be taken into account for accounting purposes. What should I do? Hey @zdenek, Send us an email at support@realmacsoftware.com and we can get your email updated in our billing system, and your subscription cancelled if needed.