Developing a WordPress based site for a client

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1

Hi Folks,

WARNING: newbie question.

I have found that WordPress blogs offer features (via plug-ins) that my client wants and doesn’t require extensive programming skill (nice for a non-programmer like me). I am use to developing a site in a playground then uploading it to the final location after validation and other testing. Since a blog is database driven, I think moving it is not possible. So, how do you develop the blog site and then get it to it’s permanent home?

Also, since this is the first time I have ever tried working with WordPress we are talking learning curve. So a play area becomes even more important.

Thanks.

VRM

2

Run apache and mysql on your own computer just like the web hosts do on theirs.

Here’s an installer that will create the whole environment for you:

3

WP will cut down a lot of your work.

I had a client a few months ago insist that only WordPress to be used for the backend. I completely built the entire site using a plugin. Most people do not even realise that the site is a WordPress site.

I think the great thing about WordPress is that you can easily add extras which are not the core of the site like Google Analytics or Sexy Bookmarks etc.

:wink:

So try installing a base setup on your own site using Fantastico in cPanel or on your own home machine.

Dale

4

Hi Dan,

That gives me a local environment which is great for play, but can I then “upload” the blog to a web host? Or do I recreate.

Oh, I am on a Mac, so the process for setting up the environment is different.

VRM

5

Download MAMP, then download and extract WordPress into the htdocs folder

Then goto localhost:8080/wordpress

6

Thanks for the info.

I will set up locally and play with WordPress.

I still don’t know how you got the site from your machine to your client’s web host.

WordPress has a lot of neat features and plug-ins that would allow me to add functionality without programming. The content management feature would allow the client to update the site.

VRM

7

FTP, generally

How do you normally transfer your work to your client’s hosting?

8

Once you’re done with the site on your machine, it’s basically just moving/uploading the files (and copying your database) over from your machine to the host server…

the link above might be of some help…with the basic instructions and links within the text showing you how to backup/copy your database to prepare for the move.

9

Does your client have an existing website with room available for creating a virtual sandbox? You could develop your design on their existing server (in a temp directory), then just move it to top level (root) when complete.

10

Thanks everyone.

I now have the tools for creating a WordPress site on my Mac and verified with my ISP that uploading the files and importing the database is the way to go.

Sincerely,
VRM