I am taking the plunge...

[Restformationist]

Currently I am using IntegraMOD, which is a premodded version of phpBB. After months of reflection, I've come to see that IM and phpBB in general is slow, inflexible, and insecure. As much as I like free software, I've learned "you get what you pay for." vBulletin is definitely worth paying for! :)

I am going to purchase it once I build my new server.

My first question is, how easy will it be to convert everything to the new software? My experience level with phpBB would be considered 'moderate.' I am terrible with PHP, but I have a good idea of how the software operates.

My second concern is replacing every modification on the old site with an equivalent mod in vBulletin. That would include a shop items mod, pets mod, arcade mod, bank mod, etc. What are the best variations of these mods available in vBulletin?

I am greatly looking forward to making the switch, learning more PHP, and becoming an active part of the vBulletin community! :)

Regards,
Restformationist

[Restformationist]

Oh, I have an additional concern.

In phpBB there is a modification known as PCP. It is difficult to explain, but for those who are familiar with it, can you tell me if there is a similar system in vBulletin? Thanks.

[Steve Machol]

Yes, we have an import script for phpBB. You can read about it here:

http://www.vbulletin.com/docs/html/impex_phpbb2?manualversion=30501500

Also please read the online Impex import instructions here:

http://www.vbulletin.com/docs/html/impex?manualversion=30501500

As for modifications, check over at the vB Mod site - www.vbulletin.org (http://www.vbulletin.org) - for these.

[TyleR]

Oh, I have an additional concern.

In phpBB there is a modification known as PCP. It is difficult to explain, but for those who are familiar with it, can you tell me if there is a similar system in vBulletin? Thanks.

That's pretty much built in ;)

<- used phpBB for a year ands a half or so, made a few mods for it, but found the light and moved here a while back now :p

[RagnarokDensetsu]

I upgraded without a hitch from phpBB to vBulletin, it's quite simple to install. Importing is quite simple too, it's a bit tougher to manage, but still fairly simple.

As for the PCP... click that link up there that says "User CP" ;)

You can also try vBulletin out for free at the admin demo:

http://www.vbulletin.com/admindemo.php

[Restformationist]

A few minutes ago I purchased a 1 year license. :) Normally I would buy the long-term license, but I cannot afford it at this point in time. I'll buy the full license next year upon expiration.

The quality of vBulletin is breathtaking. I am happy to pay for this amazing quality. :)


As for the PCP... click that link up there that says "User CP"

PCP is "Profile Control Panel." This is a mod which allows profile tables, fields, etc., to be modified in the ACP rather than modifying the code/template. That is a basic explaination of that mod.

[Zachery]

We have a profile field system built in, if thats what you are looking for.

[feldon23]

You can add Custom User Profile Fields (text entry or checkboxes) and add them to the templates (postbit and MEMBERINFO) without writing any PHP code.