Function

 

One of the biggest problems with the current site is that the content, such as news items or items about social events, is merged with layout items, such as the green menu buttons.

Making a change to the structure or style of one page requires that nearly every page on the site needs to be changed. This is a time consuming process that is rarely undertaken.

The new site is constructed using Drupal 5.7, a Content Management System (CMS). This separates the content from the layout. Not only does this allow rapid changes to the site structure, it allows all users to be able to add professionally styled content to the site.

This should ensure that the site stays current and fresh, acting as a great advertisement for the club.

 

Form

Members cannot have failed to notice that the site was starting to look tired and dated. This was largely due to the functional difficulties, discussed above, of changing the site layout.

 

This limitation no longer applies. It is possible to change the entire look of the site at the click of a mouse. To try this, login, click on My Account on the right hand side and click edit. In here you will see a list of 'Themes'; select one that takes your fancy and click on the 'Submit' button at the bottom of the screen. The new style is applied immediately. If you want to change back to the original version, repeat the process but select the theme marked (site default theme).

 

This blog will be an occasional series highlighting the new features and functions that will be provided by the site. Existing & planned developments include:

• Blogs (web logs)
• Club events and social calendar with sign-up online
• User administered photo gallery allowing pictures from the latest dive
• Secure, members only, contact list for email, phone, etc to help plan dives

 

I hope you enjoy the new site. Comments and suggestions welcome! Email Ian@salfordsac.org.uk