I apologize if this isn't the best forum for this question, but I couldn't find a better one. I know basic HTML/CSS type stuff. But, I want to make a site that requires much more than this. What I'm looking for, I guess, is some type of idea as to how big (or small) this job would be, what it would require, and, if possible, any kind of ballpark estimate as to how much it might cost. I can sum the site up in 3 words (and a number)... Database, Web 2.0, AJAX. Basically, there is a database that already exists. I want to make this database searchable in a very fast, very clean, Web 2.0 type interface/design (using AJAX). The problem is, I know nothing about databases or AJAX (other than it makes things... fast.) It's possible that upon trying and trying and trying, I may be able to come up with some type of Web 2.0 design for the site on my own, but I'd much rather find someone who is, ya know, good at it. I realize it's a general description, but I guess all I'm expecting is some general information. So, anything anyone can offer would be very much appreciated. Thanks.
AJAX does not make things fast, it communicates to the server at the same speed... it just looks fast because theirs no page reload. when searching DB's you can search using likes, or do full-text indexing. ("Select field1, field2, where field1 like '%".$keyword."%' OR field2 like '%".$keyword."%'") Very fast... make sure you get a reliable host (NOT DREAMHOST) if you got a dedicated server... it would be the fastest Web 2.0 (AJAX). Essentially, its just JS communicating to your PHP, and passing back data via querystrings. Once you get the hang of how it works, it's a breeze
Thanks for the info. Any ballpark estimate as to how much I should expect to pay for something like this? My budget is $2,000 (and under, of course).