I think I will try to make this a more regular thing here to keep everyone informed of what we're doing and where things are headed. As most of you know, I am very open about the happenings around here, so what better way then to share with you the visions and goals we set each week. [=D]
- Growth of site rebuild.
Ok I got a little out of hand and decided to begin the large task of rebuilding the site to optimize all code, functionality, administration, and converting the site entirely to the .NET platform.
- Design Completed.
The new design is pretty much done, but since I'm rebuilding the site code (minus the forums for now!) expect this when the site is re-launched in a few weeks/months.
- Network Completed.
The new network is in and looks clear of issues or degradation. We will be migrating the machines to them tonight and will basically be down while the DNS propagates. This means the site may be down for 2 hours for some and up to 24 for others...
- Machine Re-tasking This Week
We've got a new server to push into the mix and possibly another in the coming weeks to help spread the site resources out a bit more. Currently we handle a large amount of mail services, the sites, data, chat, advertising, development, and a few other services. Some of these span multiple servers and many are impressive machines with dual CPUs, 2gigs+ ram, and so forth. Our goal is to better balance the services which require more resources.
- Database Modification.
The database back end is being grown and is changing to meet our new needs. One of the larger changes is the expansion of the user data collection in order to prepare for the release of the upcoming WebStore and EquipmentExchange. Both of these engines require the capture of additional information and thus streamlining the database was key.
- WebStore.
This item will be pushed off the queue while the site is worked on. It will be a fully integrated web solution. Your login will carry over and we'll capture your personal information and store in a highly secure database for ordering purposes only. (Significant upgrade from current store!)
- Equipment Exchange.
This has also been pushed off the queue while the site is worked on. Also relying on the capture of personal information, it will be a self regulating system meant to simplify the process of posting items, finding items, monitoring sold items, user feedback, and so forth. I'm very excited about this application, but more pressing needs currently exist.
This covers most of the items on the table at this time. The focus is clearly on the Network and Site rebuild. It's essential to manage the rebuild of the site for several reasons, the foremost being the better utilization of bandwidth. The more traffic we can handle, the faster the response time, the better the performance, the happier you all will be!
Lets hope Edward and I don't have heart attacks from all this work!