WordPress.com enables easy embedding of external services through something we call WP shortcodes, a special syntax we translate into static markup, Flash and/or JavaScript code inside a post. We simplify by using shortcodes for a specific reasons:
- It allows us to maintain the security of cookies and such on the WordPress.com domain.
- Embeds and other rich media wreck havoc on WYSIWYG editors; this is far easier for people to copy, paste, and move around.
- The code is generally much shorter than the equivalent HTML code.
- We can update the translated HTML while leaving the shortcode the same.
- We can display the most appropriate content to mobile clients, web feeds and other forms of consumption.
- We track how much different external services are used, for example we know there have been hundreds of thousands of posts with embedded YouTube videos.
- A closer relationship with partners.
- We promote the shortcodes in the posting interface.
We receive many requests every week to add support for new services and embed codes. We have already integrated the embedding features our publishers most often demand, but we are always open to new and interesting content and services not already on our radar. Embed services can improve the attractiveness of their service to WordPress.com and its publishers through a few simple steps:
- An existing WordPress plugin meeting our embed prerequisites.
- The shortcode promoted on your pages for easy integration with WordPress, including WordPress.com.
- Affiliate programs or revenue sharing.
- Other forms of cross-promotion, we have nice amounts of traffic.
