This is a bit complicated so I will do my best to fully explain. I gained a client because their previous developer and hosting company dropped them, the client dared to look elsewhere for ideas and services! The former developer declined to give the client all of their data files and backups. My problem is the client, was not all that fond of the previous site, but there was functionality that they loved.
This is a large dealership, dealing in RVs, trailers and pretty much everything else. They usually have a few hundred entries between the trailers, RVs and used products.
The previous web site had a section to create new entries, you could do the usual, with child and parent directories, but it was a bit more ecommerce then the standard page, as you could attach the product to several different key words; Motorhomes, Travel Trailers, Fifth Wheels and so on.
There was a section that was broken up into groups; Special Features, Vehicular Features/Chassis, Specifications, Exterior Features & Construction and four more. In each group there were further selections with radio buttons for Yes or No (Yes it has the feature, No it doesn't). If a Group was left empty (or was all no) that group would not show on the page.
On the web page, the groups would have their own box, with their related features or construction details put into a nice and ordered list(s) that would split to the right if there were more then 10 features displayed. The old site used tables to create these lists, I would like to stick with css. We do have a printout of the old interface.
The biggest thing was that the above process created two pages, English and French, and attached them to their respective Parent. The only thing the client had to do was fill out the details page that needed a paragraph of text. We are currently running 1.6.7 MLE.
Whatever is built would need to be expandable, with new options being added and old ones removed. Another problem is that I never got to test the old site or interface, I am going by hear say and client request.
As always it will be going into the hands of people that have basic computer skills and minimal time.
A few things, they love the Gallery program. Love how easy it is to use. I have been trying to MAcGyver a template for the last two days and in the end the client wants similar to what they had. (Sorry Jos, but thank you for the help!)
If anyone has some advice, please share. If you have any questions or are interested please contact me at d.magill@vsgroup.ca
Of course this is on a timeline...
We have a meeting tomorrow and hope to have more information.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
