How I did it: First thing, you need to figure out what your goals for redesign are. Two years ago, mine weren't clear. Then I finally sat down and discussed what I wanted from a domain.

Then I figured out what CMS package I wanted to use. I have Wordpress running my site, with plugins that allow me to post to my other areas online. Best decision ever. It also allowed me to convert all my old content to its new system. The only pain I had to deal with was the poor coding of my theme. Because of it, I had my coder hubby fix many issues. He really did get the site the way I wanted it to be.

Lessons & tips:

• Be careful of the theme you install. Not all professionally designed FREE themes are what you think of them.
• Be EXPLICITLY clear as to what your redesign goals are. Then find tools and apps online to help you achieve that goal.
• Be flexible. But also know when to put your foot down, as it's your site.

Resources:

• Wordpress
• Wordpress plugins
• Gallery 2 (It's what I use for my photo galleries)
• Media Wiki: used for a special interest tarot site.

Feb 08, 2009, 04:39PM PST | 0 comments