Web Hosting Issues
23/05/11 10:45
There are some difficult issues ahead with copenworld.
Having now moved to the other side of the world (New Zealand), I’m left with the site hosted by a UK company (although the web servers are actually physically located in Germany). This means I can only pay in British pounds for the hosting service, which is not terribly convenient, and on top of that the site is starting to outgrow the current hosting package. Upgrading with the current hosting company is quite expensive, and the site is already costing me quite a bit to run.
It seems like the best way forward is to move to another hosting company, but this is certainly not an easy option. It’s not something I’ve ever done before, and the more I look at it the trickier it seems. I will probably need to move the copenworld domain name to another company in addition to moving the actual hosting of the site. This means I’ve got to physically relocate the whole site to another server. The site is already relatively complex, and moving it is not going to be easy. Inevitably it will also mean that the site will have to be closed down for a while, and it may be unavailable to many people for as long as a couple of days while the changes propagate across the internet, or even much longer if it goes wrong!
On top of all that, I also need to do a long overdue upgrade to the forum software. I’ve held off with this upgrade because the forum software (vBulletin) has been through a bit of a tricky period. The developers released a major upgrade, and although I paid for the upgrade many months ago, the software has been plagued with problems. For this reason, I decided to wait until a stable version was released. They now seem to have shaken out all of the main bugs, so it looks like the time might be right. This upgrade also looks like a bit of a nightmare.
My initial thinking was that if I need to close the site for a couple of days to relocate it, I may as well also do the forum upgrade at the same time. I then came to my senses and realised this was a perfect recipe for a disaster. I’ve never relocated a site like this before, and I’ve never been through a major upgrade of the forum software. Doing both at the same time seems like a great way to kill the site completely.
So, that brings me back to the problem. I’ve decided to relocate the site first and worry about the forum upgrade a bit later, even though that means two separate significant periods of downtime. After a lot of research into hosting companies (there are some really awful ones out there!) I’ve chosen a company and bought a new hosting package. I’ve now got to figure out how to move everything. I just know this is going to be painful!
I need to do a few practise runs first, and then I can start to plan for the real thing.
Wish me luck!
Having now moved to the other side of the world (New Zealand), I’m left with the site hosted by a UK company (although the web servers are actually physically located in Germany). This means I can only pay in British pounds for the hosting service, which is not terribly convenient, and on top of that the site is starting to outgrow the current hosting package. Upgrading with the current hosting company is quite expensive, and the site is already costing me quite a bit to run.
It seems like the best way forward is to move to another hosting company, but this is certainly not an easy option. It’s not something I’ve ever done before, and the more I look at it the trickier it seems. I will probably need to move the copenworld domain name to another company in addition to moving the actual hosting of the site. This means I’ve got to physically relocate the whole site to another server. The site is already relatively complex, and moving it is not going to be easy. Inevitably it will also mean that the site will have to be closed down for a while, and it may be unavailable to many people for as long as a couple of days while the changes propagate across the internet, or even much longer if it goes wrong!
On top of all that, I also need to do a long overdue upgrade to the forum software. I’ve held off with this upgrade because the forum software (vBulletin) has been through a bit of a tricky period. The developers released a major upgrade, and although I paid for the upgrade many months ago, the software has been plagued with problems. For this reason, I decided to wait until a stable version was released. They now seem to have shaken out all of the main bugs, so it looks like the time might be right. This upgrade also looks like a bit of a nightmare.
My initial thinking was that if I need to close the site for a couple of days to relocate it, I may as well also do the forum upgrade at the same time. I then came to my senses and realised this was a perfect recipe for a disaster. I’ve never relocated a site like this before, and I’ve never been through a major upgrade of the forum software. Doing both at the same time seems like a great way to kill the site completely.
So, that brings me back to the problem. I’ve decided to relocate the site first and worry about the forum upgrade a bit later, even though that means two separate significant periods of downtime. After a lot of research into hosting companies (there are some really awful ones out there!) I’ve chosen a company and bought a new hosting package. I’ve now got to figure out how to move everything. I just know this is going to be painful!
I need to do a few practise runs first, and then I can start to plan for the real thing.
Wish me luck!
0 Comments
Advertising Now Removed
14/03/10 22:44
I’ve been trialling advertising for a while now on the copenworld site.
The ads were delivered by Google Adsense, which automatically examines the site to try and deliver relevant adverts.
I’ve found over time that the adverts have become increasingly diverse, and hence of less interest. The revenue generated from advertising has been fairly minimal, so I’ve taken the decision to remove them. Although it removes my main potential source of revenue, I think it also removes a certain amount of distraction and makes the site more attractive.
The only advertising currently left is for the copenworld shop, which I will leave in place for now at least.
I wouldn’t rule out reintroducing something similar in future, or trying to find another way of covering the monthly cost of hosting the site, but for the time being I much prefer the site without the advertising!
The ads were delivered by Google Adsense, which automatically examines the site to try and deliver relevant adverts.
I’ve found over time that the adverts have become increasingly diverse, and hence of less interest. The revenue generated from advertising has been fairly minimal, so I’ve taken the decision to remove them. Although it removes my main potential source of revenue, I think it also removes a certain amount of distraction and makes the site more attractive.
The only advertising currently left is for the copenworld shop, which I will leave in place for now at least.
I wouldn’t rule out reintroducing something similar in future, or trying to find another way of covering the monthly cost of hosting the site, but for the time being I much prefer the site without the advertising!
What happened?
20/02/10 09:30
OK, I know what you’re thinking..... What happened to the site updates?
Well, I’ve just been a bit too busy since I got back from holiday! However, I’m hoping that things are now getting back to normal, and I can resume updating the site again.
I haven’t had a chance to look at upgrading the forum software yet, which is probably a good thing because it looks like the new vBulletin software is riddled with bugs! A maintenance update is due very soon which will hopefully make it usable, and I can then give it a go. At the moment, I don’t want to risk messing up the site.
So, now I need to get back to those site updates.....
Well, I’ve just been a bit too busy since I got back from holiday! However, I’m hoping that things are now getting back to normal, and I can resume updating the site again.
I haven’t had a chance to look at upgrading the forum software yet, which is probably a good thing because it looks like the new vBulletin software is riddled with bugs! A maintenance update is due very soon which will hopefully make it usable, and I can then give it a go. At the moment, I don’t want to risk messing up the site.
So, now I need to get back to those site updates.....
I'm back.....
24/01/10 08:42
After a month away on holiday in Singapore, Australia and New Zealand, I’m now back to the cold and grey weather in the UK (but I’m glad I missed all of the really bad weather). I’m still recovering from the jet lag, but I’ll now get back to updating the site again.
I was disappointed to see only one Copen while I was away - a lovely pearl white Copen in Singapore. I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised really, but I guess I was hoping to see one or two more.
I can now start thinking about testing that upgrade to the new forum software....!
I was disappointed to see only one Copen while I was away - a lovely pearl white Copen in Singapore. I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised really, but I guess I was hoping to see one or two more.
I can now start thinking about testing that upgrade to the new forum software....!
Christmas break approaching
13/12/09 08:33
Isn’t it odd how Christmas just seems to creep up behind you? One minute I’m enjoying the lovely autumn weather, and the next minute Christmas is just a few days away!
Development on copenworld will slow right down now for the next few weeks. I’m off on an extended holiday gallivanting around the world for a month, so there’ll be little time for making changes to the site. I’m hoping to have internet access for at least some of the time, so I will at least pop in occasionally to say hello, but I doubt I’ll have much opportunity to make any changes.
The next major step for copenworld is to upgrade to the new version of the forum software. The software is due to be released around Christmas, but I won’t have a chance to test it until the end of January. Hopefully, all of the most significant bugs will have been exterminated by then, so I reckon it will be pretty good timing. I hope to get the site upgraded in February, and it should bring a few new features as well as a fresh new look for the forums. Something to look forward to!
Development on copenworld will slow right down now for the next few weeks. I’m off on an extended holiday gallivanting around the world for a month, so there’ll be little time for making changes to the site. I’m hoping to have internet access for at least some of the time, so I will at least pop in occasionally to say hello, but I doubt I’ll have much opportunity to make any changes.
The next major step for copenworld is to upgrade to the new version of the forum software. The software is due to be released around Christmas, but I won’t have a chance to test it until the end of January. Hopefully, all of the most significant bugs will have been exterminated by then, so I reckon it will be pretty good timing. I hope to get the site upgraded in February, and it should bring a few new features as well as a fresh new look for the forums. Something to look forward to!
First Attempted Attack!
27/11/09 11:24
I appear to have got the first real attempted attack on the website today from a spammer.
I’ve seen a few unsuccessful attempts to register on the forums from known spammers, but today was the first time that one managed to complete the registration process. However, I just happened to notice it straight away, and deleted the user before they (or it) managed to post anything.
It’s sad that there are so many people out there trying to spam forums. No doubt one of them will eventually get through, but it’s really not worth worrying about!
I’ve seen a few unsuccessful attempts to register on the forums from known spammers, but today was the first time that one managed to complete the registration process. However, I just happened to notice it straight away, and deleted the user before they (or it) managed to post anything.
It’s sad that there are so many people out there trying to spam forums. No doubt one of them will eventually get through, but it’s really not worth worrying about!
Oh So Quiet....
26/11/09 09:07
Things have been a bit quiet on copenworld for the last week or two, mainly because I’ve been very busy at work and not had much time to update the site very much.
However, the membership continues to grow, now with over 50 members, so I remain happy with progress.
My wishlist for the site, however, continues to grow unabated. So much so, that I’ve now had to categorise it in order to make it more manageable. There are lots of things to do to develop the site further, I just have to find the time to do it!
I’ve started looking at the “features” page to expand it a bit further. I’ll be adding a “How To” section as soon as I get the chance to finish it, which will bring together a few articles (mainly from forum posts) with some handy hints and tips.
I’m starting to see the limits now of the software I’m using to create most of the web pages. I’d really love to move to something more professional such as Dreamweaver, but I really can’t justify paying out over £300 for yet more software at the moment. If a few more members start to click on the ads and the advertising revenue picks up a bit, maybe it might be possible, or maybe Santa will be feeling very generous this year. I’m sure he must be a Copen fan. Just think how good that sleigh would look being pulled along by nine little Copens, with a shiny red one at the front .....!
However, the membership continues to grow, now with over 50 members, so I remain happy with progress.
My wishlist for the site, however, continues to grow unabated. So much so, that I’ve now had to categorise it in order to make it more manageable. There are lots of things to do to develop the site further, I just have to find the time to do it!
I’ve started looking at the “features” page to expand it a bit further. I’ll be adding a “How To” section as soon as I get the chance to finish it, which will bring together a few articles (mainly from forum posts) with some handy hints and tips.
I’m starting to see the limits now of the software I’m using to create most of the web pages. I’d really love to move to something more professional such as Dreamweaver, but I really can’t justify paying out over £300 for yet more software at the moment. If a few more members start to click on the ads and the advertising revenue picks up a bit, maybe it might be possible, or maybe Santa will be feeling very generous this year. I’m sure he must be a Copen fan. Just think how good that sleigh would look being pulled along by nine little Copens, with a shiny red one at the front .....!
The Geek Spot
14/11/09 12:08
If you're not interested in geeky computer stuff then it might be best to just skip over this entry!!!
I initially created the copenworld forums using free phpBB software. I wasn't very happy with the results, so before opening the forums up for user registration I switched to vBulletin software (with some extra add-ons).
Shortly after starting the site, vBulletin announced that they were planning to release a major upgrade to their forum software. Being the impulsive type, I immediately pre-purchased the upgrade. Today, vBulletin released the first public beta of the software. Of course, I immediately downloaded it and set about creating a test installation to have a closer look at this new toy.
The installation didn't exactly go smoothly. I feared that it was going to be incompatible with my current hosting package, but after a couple of hours I finally got it running.
What became immediately clear was that upgrading the live copenworld forums is not going to be straightforward. Although copenworld hasn't been running for very long, I've already made lots of customisations to it. The new forum software works in a very different way, so the upgrade is going to be quite a challenge. I may end up having to radically re-work the home page.
The finished version of the new software is due to be released at the end of the year. I don't know how long it will take me to upgrade and re-work the site, but it should prove to be an interesting project.
I initially created the copenworld forums using free phpBB software. I wasn't very happy with the results, so before opening the forums up for user registration I switched to vBulletin software (with some extra add-ons).
Shortly after starting the site, vBulletin announced that they were planning to release a major upgrade to their forum software. Being the impulsive type, I immediately pre-purchased the upgrade. Today, vBulletin released the first public beta of the software. Of course, I immediately downloaded it and set about creating a test installation to have a closer look at this new toy.
The installation didn't exactly go smoothly. I feared that it was going to be incompatible with my current hosting package, but after a couple of hours I finally got it running.
What became immediately clear was that upgrading the live copenworld forums is not going to be straightforward. Although copenworld hasn't been running for very long, I've already made lots of customisations to it. The new forum software works in a very different way, so the upgrade is going to be quite a challenge. I may end up having to radically re-work the home page.
The finished version of the new software is due to be released at the end of the year. I don't know how long it will take me to upgrade and re-work the site, but it should prove to be an interesting project.
Copenworld Map
09/11/09 07:14
After a couple of false starts, I've now got a map available for Copen owners to plot themselves on.
I've spent a while looking for a slick and easy to use solution that I could easily incorporate into the site, but couldn't find anything that perfectly met the requirements.
In the end I just went with Google as they have the best maps. It's not quite as simple to use as I'd like it to be, and the sharing facilities are a bit weak. For example, it's possible for anyone to alter someone else's position on the map. I wish Google would make it so that you can add your own position on the map but not change anyone else's. It seems like such an obvious requirement, but it's not there. Perhaps Google will enhance it in future. It does make the map very vulnerable to someone messing it up (either deliberately or accidentally). I've put the capability to amend the map behind a password protected area to guard against casual misuse, but it's easy for someone to get around this with a little effort. We'll see how it goes....
The site is continuing to grow, but I think it will be a while before it reaches the critical mass it needs. There are already some good members who are making interesting and useful contributions. Hopefully it will continue to grow naturally if I can keep adding interesting content.
I've spent a while looking for a slick and easy to use solution that I could easily incorporate into the site, but couldn't find anything that perfectly met the requirements.
In the end I just went with Google as they have the best maps. It's not quite as simple to use as I'd like it to be, and the sharing facilities are a bit weak. For example, it's possible for anyone to alter someone else's position on the map. I wish Google would make it so that you can add your own position on the map but not change anyone else's. It seems like such an obvious requirement, but it's not there. Perhaps Google will enhance it in future. It does make the map very vulnerable to someone messing it up (either deliberately or accidentally). I've put the capability to amend the map behind a password protected area to guard against casual misuse, but it's easy for someone to get around this with a little effort. We'll see how it goes....
The site is continuing to grow, but I think it will be a while before it reaches the critical mass it needs. There are already some good members who are making interesting and useful contributions. Hopefully it will continue to grow naturally if I can keep adding interesting content.
New Shop
03/11/09 07:40
There's now a new page on the site where you can buy merchandise such as t-shirts, hats and even umbrellas.
The goods are supplied from an internet retailer called "Spreadshirt", which makes and supplies customised goods.
I did worry a little that the goods are not the cheapest around, but after a bit of pondering, I decided to go with a retailer that offers quality goods. I could have used a cheaper supplier, but the goods from some other similar suppliers looked a bit on the dodgy side. I also wanted someone who could supply to a range of countries, and who allows goods to be returned even though they are custom-made. There is a legal requirement in the UK for suppliers to give refunds on any goods bought via the internet even if they are not faulty, but custom-made goods are excluded. However, "Spreadshirt" will give refunds on all goods (unless they have been further tailored by the purchaser).
The goods pay a small commission, which will help to offset the costs of running the site. However, I suspect I'll be the biggest customer for the shop, so once again I'll be paying out more that I earn. Never mind, it's all good fun!
The goods are supplied from an internet retailer called "Spreadshirt", which makes and supplies customised goods.
I did worry a little that the goods are not the cheapest around, but after a bit of pondering, I decided to go with a retailer that offers quality goods. I could have used a cheaper supplier, but the goods from some other similar suppliers looked a bit on the dodgy side. I also wanted someone who could supply to a range of countries, and who allows goods to be returned even though they are custom-made. There is a legal requirement in the UK for suppliers to give refunds on any goods bought via the internet even if they are not faulty, but custom-made goods are excluded. However, "Spreadshirt" will give refunds on all goods (unless they have been further tailored by the purchaser).
The goods pay a small commission, which will help to offset the costs of running the site. However, I suspect I'll be the biggest customer for the shop, so once again I'll be paying out more that I earn. Never mind, it's all good fun!
Browser issues
27/10/09 10:55
A forum member recently pointed out that there were problems when viewing the site with Internet Explorer 6. I use a Mac for designing the site, and although I'd tested it out with Internet Explorer 8 running in Windows 7, I hadn't thought of trying it out with other Windows browsers. I installed Windows XP and IE6 to take a look, and sure enough it looked horrible!
I hope I've now removed the main problems with IE6 so the site is at least usable. Although it's now a very old browser, I can see from my site statistics that there are already a few people accessing the site with it.
I never realised that browsers are so different when it comes to displaying websites, and it's definitely increased my admiration for professional web designers who are able to produce universally usable sites.
I've now got a few combinations of Windows 7, Windows XP and Mac OS X Snow Leopard set up with IE6, IE7, IE8, Safari, Firefox and Opera for testing, so hopefully that will cover the most frequently used environments! Unfortunately, I just don't have the time to test the site fully in all environments, so I'm hoping that members will help me out by continuing to point out any problems.
I hope I've now removed the main problems with IE6 so the site is at least usable. Although it's now a very old browser, I can see from my site statistics that there are already a few people accessing the site with it.
I never realised that browsers are so different when it comes to displaying websites, and it's definitely increased my admiration for professional web designers who are able to produce universally usable sites.
I've now got a few combinations of Windows 7, Windows XP and Mac OS X Snow Leopard set up with IE6, IE7, IE8, Safari, Firefox and Opera for testing, so hopefully that will cover the most frequently used environments! Unfortunately, I just don't have the time to test the site fully in all environments, so I'm hoping that members will help me out by continuing to point out any problems.
A few more additions....
22/10/09 20:02
The site continues to develop.
I've added the Daihatsu Service Manuals on the directory page to sit alongside the Owner's Manual.
I've also made a few more cosmetic tweaks here and there, and I'm gradually removing all the little problems I keep finding. I've included a few more adverts to try and generate some income, but I'm trying to keep them discreet so they don't distract too much from the overall look of the site. I know I'll never fully cover the monthly running costs, but if the site grows at a reasonable rate I might at least be able to partially offset them.
Of course, I've also spent yet more money on the site! I've pre-ordered the next generation of software for the forums which will be available at the end of the year. I'm hoping to upgrade fairly shortly after the software becomes available. This is a bit of a risk because new software inevitably has bugs, but I'm going to take a chance in order to keep the site fresh. It also comes with the capability to allow members to set up their own blogs on the site, so I'll have a look to see if that would be viable. I'm not convinced anyone is likely to take advantage of this feature though?
The number of members is growing slowly but surely. Virtually all new users are arriving here via copenownersclub.org.uk, so I do need to find ways of promoting the site more widely to bring people in.
I've added the Daihatsu Service Manuals on the directory page to sit alongside the Owner's Manual.
I've also made a few more cosmetic tweaks here and there, and I'm gradually removing all the little problems I keep finding. I've included a few more adverts to try and generate some income, but I'm trying to keep them discreet so they don't distract too much from the overall look of the site. I know I'll never fully cover the monthly running costs, but if the site grows at a reasonable rate I might at least be able to partially offset them.
Of course, I've also spent yet more money on the site! I've pre-ordered the next generation of software for the forums which will be available at the end of the year. I'm hoping to upgrade fairly shortly after the software becomes available. This is a bit of a risk because new software inevitably has bugs, but I'm going to take a chance in order to keep the site fresh. It also comes with the capability to allow members to set up their own blogs on the site, so I'll have a look to see if that would be viable. I'm not convinced anyone is likely to take advantage of this feature though?
The number of members is growing slowly but surely. Virtually all new users are arriving here via copenownersclub.org.uk, so I do need to find ways of promoting the site more widely to bring people in.
Problems mostly resolved
19/10/09 09:58
I've sorted out most of the problems with Internet Explorer now (I hope).
The site still looks much better in Firefox or Safari, and I don't think it's going to be easy to resolve that issue, unless, of course, the whole world migrates away from using Internet Explorer. Somehow, I don't think that's likely to happen. Not this month anyway!
The site still looks much better in Firefox or Safari, and I don't think it's going to be easy to resolve that issue, unless, of course, the whole world migrates away from using Internet Explorer. Somehow, I don't think that's likely to happen. Not this month anyway!
Internet Explorer 8 problems...
18/10/09 11:40
I've just discovered that some of the pages are not displaying correctly in Internet Explorer 8.
It seems fine with Firefox and Safari.
It's too late in the day to figure it out now - I'll have a look later.
If you're getting a problem with the site, the best answer is to ditch Internet Explorer and get yourself a decent browser!! ;-)
It seems fine with Firefox and Safari.
It's too late in the day to figure it out now - I'll have a look later.
If you're getting a problem with the site, the best answer is to ditch Internet Explorer and get yourself a decent browser!! ;-)
A bit of a makeover
18/10/09 11:02
The site has had a minor makeover today.
I've replaced the menu bar with a design that I'm a bit happier with, plus I've changed the page style and done some general tidying up around the site.
Once again, the changes don't look much, but it's taken me about 10 hours to complete!
I'm learning a lot as I go though, so it's all interesting and useful. I've got one fairly minor problem remaining with the menu bar - the font is changing size slightly on some of the menu tabs as you move around the site. It's not a big deal, but it's really annoying me that I can't figure out why it's doing it. I'm sure I'll figure it out eventually.
I've replaced the menu bar with a design that I'm a bit happier with, plus I've changed the page style and done some general tidying up around the site.
Once again, the changes don't look much, but it's taken me about 10 hours to complete!
I'm learning a lot as I go though, so it's all interesting and useful. I've got one fairly minor problem remaining with the menu bar - the font is changing size slightly on some of the menu tabs as you move around the site. It's not a big deal, but it's really annoying me that I can't figure out why it's doing it. I'm sure I'll figure it out eventually.
It's getting there...
14/10/09 10:16
Although I've still got a big list of things I want to do with the site, I think all the basics are now in place, and I'm happy with progress to date. It was less than a month ago that I started the site, so it's not too shabby to have got this far.
I think there are now two major challenges for the immediate future:
1) Try and make sure there is something new to see every day on the site. This is going to be really tough to achieve, and I'm sure I won't be able to find time every single day to update the site with news and articles. However, I'll try my best, as the site needs to remain fresh to keep people coming back.
2) Find ways to publicise the site, and get more people joining the forums. There are now 23 registered users, which isn't too bad in such a short time. However, I need to figure out how to get more people interested. That means getting the site to turn up on search engines, and to find other places on the web to reference the site. Although the Copen community is relatively small, so there are never going to be thousands of members, I've set myself a target of 200 registered users. I think that could take a fairly long time to achieve, but it should be possible.
So overall, things are looking good, but there is plenty of room for improvement. This is certainly turning out to be an interesting project.
I think there are now two major challenges for the immediate future:
1) Try and make sure there is something new to see every day on the site. This is going to be really tough to achieve, and I'm sure I won't be able to find time every single day to update the site with news and articles. However, I'll try my best, as the site needs to remain fresh to keep people coming back.
2) Find ways to publicise the site, and get more people joining the forums. There are now 23 registered users, which isn't too bad in such a short time. However, I need to figure out how to get more people interested. That means getting the site to turn up on search engines, and to find other places on the web to reference the site. Although the Copen community is relatively small, so there are never going to be thousands of members, I've set myself a target of 200 registered users. I think that could take a fairly long time to achieve, but it should be possible.
So overall, things are looking good, but there is plenty of room for improvement. This is certainly turning out to be an interesting project.
New home page
12/10/09 07:10
The next phase of development of the copenworld site is now live.
There is an all-new home page which will feature news about Daihatsu, the Copen and other motor industry news that may be of interest to Copen owners. Alongside this, there are new forums to discuss the news stories, and there are direct links to the discussions from the news articles.
The home page also features some of the polls from the forums, and summarises the latest discussions.
I've had to make some fairly fundamental changes to the site to make this all work, so there may well be some teething problems to iron out!
Please let me know if you come across any problems or have any feedback.
There is an all-new home page which will feature news about Daihatsu, the Copen and other motor industry news that may be of interest to Copen owners. Alongside this, there are new forums to discuss the news stories, and there are direct links to the discussions from the news articles.
The home page also features some of the polls from the forums, and summarises the latest discussions.
I've had to make some fairly fundamental changes to the site to make this all work, so there may well be some teething problems to iron out!
Please let me know if you come across any problems or have any feedback.
At last!
05/10/09 00:35
Finally, I've got the forums properly integrated into the site.
In other words, the header and menu bar will stay at the top of the page wherever you are, and you can easily move around the site.
I know it doesn't sound like a big deal, but it took me hours of trial and error before I worked it out. It's still not perfect, but it's a positive step forward.
I've also now figured out how to lay out the content in separate blocks on the screen, so I've reformatted the features page a bit.
They're all small steps, but once I've got the style sorted out, I'll be able to concentrate on improving the content.
In other words, the header and menu bar will stay at the top of the page wherever you are, and you can easily move around the site.
I know it doesn't sound like a big deal, but it took me hours of trial and error before I worked it out. It's still not perfect, but it's a positive step forward.
I've also now figured out how to lay out the content in separate blocks on the screen, so I've reformatted the features page a bit.
They're all small steps, but once I've got the style sorted out, I'll be able to concentrate on improving the content.
copenworld directory
30/09/09 09:57
I've now started to build the directory page on the main site. This page will contain links to Copen dealers, parts & accessory suppliers, information websites, Owners Clubs, etc.
There are just a few links there at the moment, but I'll continue to add more in the near future. It took me a couple of hours just to figure out how to widen the white text area on the page, but I'm learning rapidly!
The forums are also developing well. There are now about 15 members, so there's hope yet that the site will take off. There have been one or two minor problems with the forums such as with avatars and signatures, but they've all been fairly easily solved.
My next task is to start looking at the welcome page. I want to feature interesting topics from the forums, and maybe include results from one or two of the polls when enough people have voted, as well as adding some news. I've just got to figure out how to do that. At the moment I haven't a clue, but I'll work it out somehow!
There are just a few links there at the moment, but I'll continue to add more in the near future. It took me a couple of hours just to figure out how to widen the white text area on the page, but I'm learning rapidly!
The forums are also developing well. There are now about 15 members, so there's hope yet that the site will take off. There have been one or two minor problems with the forums such as with avatars and signatures, but they've all been fairly easily solved.
My next task is to start looking at the welcome page. I want to feature interesting topics from the forums, and maybe include results from one or two of the polls when enough people have voted, as well as adding some news. I've just got to figure out how to do that. At the moment I haven't a clue, but I'll work it out somehow!
More forum tweaking
28/09/09 09:33
I've done more fiddling with the forums this weekend:
- Added some new forums following user suggestions, and moved some about a bit.
- Changed settings to allow avatars to be created.
- Added a favicon for the site.
- Changed a few settings to simplify the user interface.
Next week I need to turn my attention to the main site, including setting up the "directory" page.
- Added some new forums following user suggestions, and moved some about a bit.
- Changed settings to allow avatars to be created.
- Added a favicon for the site.
- Changed a few settings to simplify the user interface.
Next week I need to turn my attention to the main site, including setting up the "directory" page.
Fiddling & Faffing
23/09/09 08:43
I haven't really achieved much today, largely because I was out in the Copen enjoying a lovely sunny day!
I've just fiddled and faffed a bit, making a few minor cosmetic tweaks here and there.
Back at work tomorrow, so there won't be much progress until the weekend.
I've just fiddled and faffed a bit, making a few minor cosmetic tweaks here and there.
Back at work tomorrow, so there won't be much progress until the weekend.
Don't all rush at once.....!
22/09/09 22:58
I've now opened up the forums for user registrations, so we'll see if it actually works!
I have absolutely no idea how you get a forum started with users. It seems very strange having a completely empty forum, and I suppose it just doesn't look enticing until there are some posts on there, so it's a bit "chicken and egg".
If anyone has any suggestions as to how to get it going, let me know.
I suspect that some sites invent fictitious users and create some posts to get it going, but I'm definitely not going to do that!
I have absolutely no idea how you get a forum started with users. It seems very strange having a completely empty forum, and I suppose it just doesn't look enticing until there are some posts on there, so it's a bit "chicken and egg".
If anyone has any suggestions as to how to get it going, let me know.
I suspect that some sites invent fictitious users and create some posts to get it going, but I'm definitely not going to do that!
Forums rebuilt already!
22/09/09 10:09
I've bought the forum software and got it all installed - all fairly painless so far, and ahead of schedule.
The forums have been set up as before, although user registrations will remain disabled until I've had a chance to check it all tomorrow.
Off to bed now!
The forums have been set up as before, although user registrations will remain disabled until I've had a chance to check it all tomorrow.
Off to bed now!
Rebuilding the forums
22/09/09 07:41
I woke up early this morning, and my first thought was "I'm going to start again with the forums".
I've used some free forum software, and I think it could be better, so I'm going to splash £100 on some better software. Oh well, it's only money!
I reckon it will be better to get it right from the start rather than try to change it later.
I've now disabled the current forums and I'll rebuild them from scratch tomorrow when I've got the software.
I'm going to be really miffed if I don't get any users after all this!
I've used some free forum software, and I think it could be better, so I'm going to splash £100 on some better software. Oh well, it's only money!
I reckon it will be better to get it right from the start rather than try to change it later.
I've now disabled the current forums and I'll rebuild them from scratch tomorrow when I've got the software.
I'm going to be really miffed if I don't get any users after all this!
Looking for inspiration
21/09/09 04:36
I've got the framework together for the website now, although there are lots of rough edges.
I've made a good start on the forum - it was a lot quicker to set up than I'd feared.
It's all still very basic, but I suppose it's not bad since I started it less than 24 hours ago.
Now all I need is some decent content to go on it.
I'm currently sitting in the back garden in the lovely evening sunshine with a glass of wine, staring at the screen and waiting for inspiration. I think it might arrive after another glass or two. Maybe three. Perhaps four at a push.
I must also have a look at setting up a Twitter account for the site. I've never really got into Twitter, but this might be a useful opportunity to figure out if it's any use!
I'm deliberatley not telling anyone about the site just yet until it's in a better state. It will be interesting to see if anyone manages to find it before I tell anyone!
I've made a good start on the forum - it was a lot quicker to set up than I'd feared.
It's all still very basic, but I suppose it's not bad since I started it less than 24 hours ago.
Now all I need is some decent content to go on it.
I'm currently sitting in the back garden in the lovely evening sunshine with a glass of wine, staring at the screen and waiting for inspiration. I think it might arrive after another glass or two. Maybe three. Perhaps four at a push.
I must also have a look at setting up a Twitter account for the site. I've never really got into Twitter, but this might be a useful opportunity to figure out if it's any use!
I'm deliberatley not telling anyone about the site just yet until it's in a better state. It will be interesting to see if anyone manages to find it before I tell anyone!
Hello!
20/09/09 06:00
OK, so I've decided to go ahead and build a community website for the Daihatsu Copen.
Up until about a month ago, I'd never even heard of the Copen. I'd been thinking about getting a new car, but nothing was really inspiring me. Then I caught a brief glimpse of an interesting little car when I was out shopping. I had no idea what it was, so I went home and hunted around on the internet.
After a few hours I found it, and I liked the look of what I saw. I went to my nearest Daihatsu dealer, and within a few days I'd bought one.
Today, I decided to build a website dedicated to the Copen. There are a few websites already, but I thought it would be interesting to set up my own.
I've never done this before, so it's going to be a bit of an adventure.
I've bought some website creation software and a web hosting package, and registered www.copenworld.com. I'm now setting up a quick "bare bones" website, and installing some forum software.
I then just have to figure out how to put it all together and make it enticing enough for users to join the site. I suspect it's going to absorb many hours of time, but I'm looking forward to it!
This is very much "work in progress" so please don't expect too much, as many parts of the site are barely even started yet.
You can contact me via the "contact" tab with your thoughts and ideas, or you're welcome to leave comments on the blog, but please bear with me while I go through a very steep learning curve.
Hope to see you on the site very soon.
Up until about a month ago, I'd never even heard of the Copen. I'd been thinking about getting a new car, but nothing was really inspiring me. Then I caught a brief glimpse of an interesting little car when I was out shopping. I had no idea what it was, so I went home and hunted around on the internet.
After a few hours I found it, and I liked the look of what I saw. I went to my nearest Daihatsu dealer, and within a few days I'd bought one.
Today, I decided to build a website dedicated to the Copen. There are a few websites already, but I thought it would be interesting to set up my own.
I've never done this before, so it's going to be a bit of an adventure.
I've bought some website creation software and a web hosting package, and registered www.copenworld.com. I'm now setting up a quick "bare bones" website, and installing some forum software.
I then just have to figure out how to put it all together and make it enticing enough for users to join the site. I suspect it's going to absorb many hours of time, but I'm looking forward to it!
This is very much "work in progress" so please don't expect too much, as many parts of the site are barely even started yet.
You can contact me via the "contact" tab with your thoughts and ideas, or you're welcome to leave comments on the blog, but please bear with me while I go through a very steep learning curve.
Hope to see you on the site very soon.