This is an unsolicited thread, but one that I hope inspires reflection and perhaps sparks meaningful conversation. It’s a message to Realmac Software (RM), YourHead Software, and the third-party developers, with the sincere hope that everyone can find ways to support each other and thrive together into the future.
The RapidWeaver and Stacks communities have experienced big changes in recent years, changes that have undoubtedly been challenging and disturbing. But as in all areas of life, with those challenges come opportunities. Both Realmac and YourHead have built incredible tools that have empowered creators and designers for years. With RapidWeaver Elements carving a new path and Stacks 5 evolving into its own standalone platform, it’s clear that both companies are charting unique courses, each with its own strengths.
While history has shown how tensions can arise in ecosystems where multiple contributors have a stake, it also teaches us an important lesson: collaboration, even amid competition, is often what drives innovation. The past success of the RapidWeaver ecosystem—built on the synergy between RM, YourHead, and third-party developers—has already proven this.
So, what’s the opportunity now?
RapidWeaver Elements offers new possibilities for users, streamlining some features that previously required plugins or frameworks. At the same time, Stacks 5 represents a standalone tool with unmatched openness, flexibility and modular design capabilities. These are two independently powerful tools. But neither can do everything for everyone, and that’s where third-party developers can shine.
There’s immense potential for developers to contribute to both platforms:
- For RapidWeaver Elements: Developers can fill gaps in advanced functionality—such as CMS tools, database integrations, or image manipulation—while leveraging RM’s commitment to improving its UI and supporting developers.
- For Stacks 5: Developers have the freedom to innovate in an open and modular environment, catering to a growing user base that values the flexibility Stacks offers.
By contributing to both, developers can expand their reach, diversify their offerings, and help webmasters around the world build better more profitable websites. Users benefit from having more options, while RM and YourHead both grow as individual companies, focusing on what they each do best.
To quote a member of the community:
“I hope RW can figure out how they can support those who have supported RW over the years with some terrific add-ons. Certainly, having add-ons makes things a lot easier for those of us who would rather design than learn code.”
That sentiment applies to both RM and YourHead. They’ve supported users and developers for years, and their continued success can only enhance what’s possible for creators everywhere.
To all involved—Realmac, YourHead, and third-party developers—I write this with deep respect for what you’ve built and hope for what can come next. There’s room for everyone to succeed here, and by embracing this opportunity, the communities stands to gain so much more.
