TLO has invested in the next major release version of vBulletin, the forum software which functions as the core engine of the site. I deliberated on this move heavily, as Invision Power Board has made considerable gains on market share and their current release version appears to outmatch vBulletin. However, I am hoping that vBulletin will turn this around with the new version, which I believe will ultimately depend upon the secondary support of modification developers. Of course, the primary reason for continuance with vBulletin is my familiarity with the system and the heavy design and modification investment to this point.
The new version includes a Content Management System (CMS) which may replace the current home page and/or The Repository. A blog system is also provided, but I am unsure if this will be integrated within TLO. I have installed a separate directory within TLO using the BETA version of vBulletion 4. Note that all modifications and custom styles have been disabled due to incompatibilities. Everyone is encouraged log into this area separately from the main site and check out the system, though I do stress that it is an unmodified BETA installation and thus a stripped down version of the site with potential bugs throughout. As I will be continually testing and modifying the structure and content, please be aware that access may be sporadic at times. Content from the main site will not be automatically updated either, as the testing area is utilizing a copy of the main database. Posting is also encouraged, though it should be realized that any content added to the testing area will be lost when the upgrade occurs. I also personally find the new skin to be abhorrent, but existing TLO styles will be converted prior to porting the site. The GOLD release of the software will not likely occur for another 1-3 months, but customizing TLO features will require an unknown delay thereafter.
TLO vBulletin 4 BETA - Forums
TLO vBulletin 4 BETA - CMS
The new version includes a Content Management System (CMS) which may replace the current home page and/or The Repository. A blog system is also provided, but I am unsure if this will be integrated within TLO. I have installed a separate directory within TLO using the BETA version of vBulletion 4. Note that all modifications and custom styles have been disabled due to incompatibilities. Everyone is encouraged log into this area separately from the main site and check out the system, though I do stress that it is an unmodified BETA installation and thus a stripped down version of the site with potential bugs throughout. As I will be continually testing and modifying the structure and content, please be aware that access may be sporadic at times. Content from the main site will not be automatically updated either, as the testing area is utilizing a copy of the main database. Posting is also encouraged, though it should be realized that any content added to the testing area will be lost when the upgrade occurs. I also personally find the new skin to be abhorrent, but existing TLO styles will be converted prior to porting the site. The GOLD release of the software will not likely occur for another 1-3 months, but customizing TLO features will require an unknown delay thereafter.
TLO vBulletin 4 BETA - Forums
TLO vBulletin 4 BETA - CMS