directories for dummies

Hello all,

I am interested in adding tightly focused niche directories to two of my websites. I know there are several good free scripts out there in use on many directory sites, and that finding someone to install a script, say PHP Link Directory, for me won't be difficult.

Here's the thing: I'm great with basic HTML, but that's as far as I go. I've never used even XML or anything more advanced. So I'm wondering if I'm in over my head to even be thinking of this - or do these scripts have admin panels that are so intuitive to use (or offer clear enough instructions) that even a dummy like me could figure out what to do?

If so, I'd appreciate some advice on which scripts are easiest to work with, and whose coding requirements are easiest to learn for someone in my shoes.

Alternately, some advice on finding someone to install a script, skin it, do some basic updating of templates (adding AdSense, for example), would be appreciated. If the later route is best for me, I'd want to find someone who, in addition, would be willing to be "on call" for a few weeks in case I need to email with questions after installation.

Any feedback greatly appreciated.

thanks much
bogey

 

You will be fine then. You should be able to figure out how to edit the design templates with a good knowledge of HTML and CSS. Now to do any serious modifications of the script, adding new functions or changing current ones, that will require some knowledge of PHP. But if you use a script like PHPLD, if you ever need someone to help out with something, PHPLD owner David is a nice guy and is usually around to help out, and if he isn't available, he knows someone who is.

 

I can upload phpld and get it running.
Put a logo there, links here and there, change a few items,
ANYONE CAN!

Believe me, I sweat a lot when I start modifying, changing or adding to scripts.
One thing I have found, is to do this first before changing any code...
copy and paste it to notepad!
So if the changes made screw it up, I have a copy to fix it back.

Now in the process of learning how to set up my own emailer, for an email newsletter, that should have all the bells and whistles of using a paid emailer.

 

I'm gonna try to do a directory site this spring. Picked up a good domain too "Joblistdirectory.com" . Obviously revolve around employment.
I'm a complete noob. Will see how it will turn out. Oh and im reading up on phpld. Thinking of using that after being inspired by a couple of sites using it.

 

phpLD is a fairly easy version, and there are a couple of nice templates out there for free. the new version 3.0 comes with some good support for people needing help as well.

 

SiteExpress -- noticed the link to the web design company in the footer of your blog directory. Are you the owner of that company? If so, PM with some general info of what you'd charge to install and design a directory for me (using phpLD or some other free script). Thanks

 

Hi,

Yes I am the owner of Site Expressions.

PM Sent

 

Best to use is Gossamer-threads links 2.0

 

Thanks for the support. Yes, 3.0 brings a lot more to the table, and it is an exciting time for us with new features being added every day. We released 3.01 last week, and 3.02 is slated for this week. Very shortly we will have nearly every feature the others have and more.

 

David,

SiteExpress installed phpLD for me, and built out the design, and now I've got www.yourgolfdirectory.com up and running. phpLD really is a breeze to operate - even for a dummy like me! You've done a great job with it.

thanks
bogey