Getting Started

Before diving into customization, ensure you have the following:

• Access to your Zendesk Guide admin panel.
• Familiarity with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Basic understanding of Zendesk's templating language, Curlybars.

Understanding Boris's File Structure

The Boris theme comprises several key files and directories:

• manifest.json - Defines the theme settings and options.
• style.css - Contains all the custom styles.
• script.js - Holds the JavaScript used for interactive elements.
• templates - A directory with all the HTML templates.

Customizing CSS

To modify the look and feel of the Boris theme:

1. Locate the style.css file in your theme's directory.
2. Add or override existing CSS styles. For instance, to change the background color, you might add:

   body { background-color: #f4f4f4; }

3. Preview changes in the Zendesk Guide theme editor before publishing.

Integrating JavaScript

Enhancing functionality with JavaScript:

1. Navigate to the script.js file.
2. Add new functions or modify the existing ones. For example, to add a simple alert on page load:

   window.onload = function() {
       alert('Welcome to our Help Center!');
   };

3. Test your scripts thoroughly to ensure they do not interfere with the default Zendesk functions.

Working with Curlybars Templates

Boris templates use Curlybars, Zendesk’s templating language. It allows dynamic content loading and customization:

1. Access the templates directory.
2. Choose the template you wish to modify. For instance, for the Home Page, you might be looking at home_page.hbs.
3. Use Curlybars logic to add or modify dynamic elements. For example:

   {{#is user 'logged-in'}}
       <p>Welcome back, {{user.name}}!</p>
   {{/is}}

4. Preview and test changes extensively in different scenarios to ensure proper functionality.

Testing and Deployment

Always test your changes comprehensively:

1. Use Zendesk’s preview mode to review changes in real-time.
2. Ensure responsiveness and compatibility across all devices and browsers.
3. Once satisfied, deploy the changes by publishing the theme in your Zendesk Guide settings.