I'm fairly new to the php/mySQL/apache world, but totally hooked. I've set up a couple sites already, working on more, and now have a new project for which your expertise is needed. I work with a loose association of other professionals, many of whom want their own website but have neither the time now expertise to create one, much less keep it updated. I suggested we design a "core" website where all the sections, pages, etc. are filled in from a database of content, which is, I guess, a cms? I thought we could allow each of our members to pick a website template from OSWD.org, which I would then customize by setting up the site pages and sections, inserting the various database variables into each section, then adding an "admin" page to allow the site owner to update/change each section via simple "online" forms. We then want to set up a "library" site where everyone could go to share content via basic upload/download of files. However, I suspect customizing each individual site will be slow and cumbersome, so I started searching for a cms, thinking it might make this job easier. Result - I downloaded phpWebsite this morning and played with it a little.
OK, that was a long intro, so now to the meat - is phpWebsite the solution we need? I can't afford to take the time to learn it to then find out it can't do what we want. I figured one or more of this forum's members would know what we need and if phpWebsite would be our best choice. And if not, is there something else out there that would be better?
Hi Squeaker, until now, with a little of self-made extensions, phpWebSite never let me down regarding my personal requirements. I'm not so sure about your ones though. Can you elaborate on the "content sharing" part?
There are a couple of solutions enabling site owners to have more than one author. It is also possible to make various sites on one server share one code base. But sharing content amongst those sites is not trivial, at least in phpWebSite. This might require a "big iron" like RedDot, which of course is expensive.
A different solution might be to give every content contributor rights to use the "Article Manager" module. With that, every author can be permitted to exactly edit his/her own articles. Articles can have multiple pages, it is also possible to assign templates to whole articles. That way, you would target most of your requirements. The last few percents might become somewhat complicated, as usual.
I think it is from what I have read, but I can't figure how to get it going???
My host is bluehost. phpwebsite is listed as an add on, but they state that they do not provide (user) support for it.
I loaded phpwebsite suite to my machine (from the suite site) but had to uninstall it because of a problem (probably due to my ignorance). The uninstall messed up my machine and I'm just recovering from that.
My question to you is: where did you learn how to get it up and running initially?
Do I need (must have?) apache and mysql on my machine?
You're mixing up two things here. One, installing. If your host offers phpWebSite, he should also be able to install it for you, right?
And then, two, as soon this has happened, you should see a login screen where you can log in with your super-user. You can then add additional modules via Control Panel - Administration - Boost. But take care not to install too much at a time. Take your time learning about the modules.
If you give me a hint of what you'd like to do actually (your site is about...?) that might be a start. What I don't understand, how comes your machine into play here (not the one your host offers, right?)
rck,
I just went back in and got to edit and view some nice menues. Most were slow or did not work (for me). I need some documentation. I'm looking for docs now. Any suggestions?
Bottom line: PHP Website looks like it will be good for me, if I ever get it figured out.
Thanks a milion for your assist.
donz
My post from yesterday is not here. I guess it timed out and disappeared.
First, let me mention a (minor) flaw with your site: When I select CP ("control panel"), the menu (to the left here) overlays the CP.
Second, I thank you for your kind assistance. I cannot thank you enough for guiding me over my difficult newbie hurdles.
Third: Add a note after "Body:" above stating: "Enter your reply or post below. It will be appended at the end of this forum topic." This will calrify the process (for newbies).
Fourth, your question asking "What is my site about?" I answered briefly but it got lost. I'll write it up again, elaborate and forward it via email.
Fifth, the documentation you linked me up with is a great piece of the pie, but "Is that all there is??"
Sixth, How do I change the theme? I suspect I have to upload some graphics and templates? The PHPWebSite graphic is nice but not as a frontice piece for my site(s). I may find the answer to this myself befor you respond.
Thanks again, Donz
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