Announcement regarding forum software conversion

[Mike]

Yes, the infamous "software change". Well, it should be happening: in a few days time. Perhaps a week. Michael (chopin) told me today that he plans to make the actual purchase very soon, and on receiving the download package will spend a few days testing it on his own computer. Once he's happy, he'll convert the live board over.

In case you're wondering, the reason this thing has been delayed so long is that Michael has been very busy with other matters, in particular with his academic studies, rounding off his very time-consuming Master's degree. Once he's done with that, he'll be able to spend a lot more time on YC.

That's the situation as I understand it. If he has anything further to add, no doubt he will do so.

[Guest Bitterduck's Revenge]

just a question.

Does this site make a profit, and if so, how much?

[oboehazzard]

It must make some profit from advertising.

[David]

I doubt it makes profit at all, given that running costs of a site are quite high. There is a small income from the advertising to go towards said costs.

[Mike]

The software packages to be used have more or less been finalised now. Our plan is to first convert the forum over to vBulletin, then to install some integrable social networking software. After this is complete, we'll then hopefully add the music management software.

As for whether the site makes a profit, Michael has reliably informed me that he will have to leave some time in between purchasing each package, otherwise he will be "living in his garage". Make of that what you will. :sadtears:

[Guest JohnGalt]

You're converting to vBulletin? Blah, I hate vBulletin. Eh, but I'm not an admin, so go ahead.

I love vB. I've used it in many forums. The difference isn't great. If anything, I believe vB is more powerful, especially for the admins.

[Mike]

The only reason we're switching to vBulletin is because, unlike with IPB, the other software can be integrated with it. Its actual operation is fairly similar to IPB's, and I think it's at least equally intuitive.

[bob stole my cookie]

vB isn't that bad. Could be worse, could be phpBB :)

Just please tell me you're keeping the man in brown pants.

How long will the board be down for during the switch?

What time of day (abouts) will it be done?

[Mike]

We're most certainly keeping the man in brown pants. Can you imagine a YC without him? :shifty:

I have no idea when it will happen, but the ball is rolling, rest assured. I would hope the board won't have to be down for too long, as we should get most things set up behind the scenes beforehand.

[Mike]

Important Update!

Michael purchased the new software yesterday and we are now both currently in the process of testing it. You can expect a sneak preview of the new skin within the next few days.

I'll also shortly be creating a new thread to house a roadmap, which will serve the purpose of both outlining the changes we have planned and keeping everyone up-to-date on progress.