BigBlueButton BN Experience (bbbext_bnx) introduces an experience layer on top of the BigBlueButton activity in Moodle, extending functionality and selectively refining core behaviors to improve usability, consistency, and session flow.

BigBlueButton is a reliable foundation for live online learning. However, as usage scales, the default experience—while stable—is not always optimized for modern workflows. BNX enhances the experience you already rely on by improving key interactions without modifying core Moodle or BigBlueButton code.

Key Features in This Release

Pre-Session Lobby (Replaces “Wait for Moderator”)

Replaces the default waiting screen with a pre-session lobby (anteroom), providing a clearer and more controlled entry experience for participants.

• Improved session entry flow
• Reduced confusion for learners
• Better alignment with instructor workflows

Modernized Recordings View

Replaces the legacy YUI datatable with a modern HTML/CSS interface for accessing recordings.

• Sorting, searching, and pagination fully functional
• Cleaner and more readable layout
• Improved usability for instructors and students

Improved Group Behavior

Includes targeted fixes for group-based sessions, improving reliability in complex course configurations where core behavior may be inconsistent.

How It Works

BNX is implemented as a subplugin framework for mod_bigbluebuttonbn.

This allows it to:

• Enhance and override specific core behaviors where needed
• Add functionality without modifying core Moodle or BigBlueButton code
• Provide a foundation for additional BNX extensions (bbbext_bnx_*)

The result is a safer, more flexible way to evolve the BigBlueButton experience over time.

Roadmap

This initial release focuses on foundational improvements, with additional capabilities planned:

• Expanded lock settings — extending BigBlueButton lock controls (camera, mic, chat, notes, user visibility) beyond current Moodle core support
• Integrated reminders functionality — consolidating the capabilities of BN Reminders into BNX, enabling automated, customizable email reminders without requiring a separate plugin
• Pre-uploaded presentations — including support for multiple files per activity
• Early access for teachers — allowing instructors to enter and test rooms before participants
• Expanded subplugin ecosystem — enabling automation, alerts, and workflow enhancements

Complementary Components

For organizations working with Blindside Networks:

• Insights — aggregated analytics on engagement, usage patterns, and session activity
• DataHub — secure access to BigBlueButton data for reporting, automation, and integrations

These components extend BNX’s value by turning session activity into actionable intelligence.

Manual Installation

1. Download the release ZIP.
2. Extract it to:

   mod/bigbluebuttonbn/extension/bnx

   (The folder name must be exactly bnx.)
3. Run:

   php admin/cli/upgrade.php --non-interactive

   or visit Site administration → Notifications.
4. Go to Site administration → Plugins → BigBlueButton → Manage BigBlueButton extension plugins and enable BNX.

Requirements: Moodle 5.1+ recommended, BigBlueButtonBN ≥ 2025100600.

Developed and supported by Blindside Networks, the creators of BigBlueButton.