Questions about converting an existing php board

[LdyG]

Hi,

I have a few questions about the conversion process if I use a pro install. Although I set up the php board myself almost 2 years ago life stuff happened and I didn't upgrade as I should. Now the board is finally getting busy since another large board is closing and many of the refugee's are coming to our board. They are used to V Bulletin which is one of the reasons we are considering converting. :cool:

My questions are, with a professional install:
How long does it take? Is there any down time and if so how much?
How much would I have to actually do in this process?
Would I loose any of the threads, format, smilies, avatars, etc?
Would I be able to have my banner still?
Would there be a way to have a "donate" button on the board?
and finally (for now)
We have an Internal Server Error. would this fix that or should I call G-Daddy?

FWIW: I am currently still on phpBB 2.0.17 and use GoDaddy as a host. Thank you for your kind assistance.
~LdyG

[Kerry-Anne]

1. Professional Installations are normally completed within 24-48 hours
2. There is no down time of your phpbb board for the vBulletin installation
3. We do not have an import/conversion service, so you will need to perform the import yourself. Full support is available for this though.
4. No
5. Yes
6. Yes either through a direct template modification to include your paypal donate button or via a modification
7. That will be a hosting issue

[LdyG]

Thank you for your quick reply. Other then the I have to perform the import those were all the answers I wanted to hear. :)

How difficult is it to import? Does the "full support" cost extra and how is it done, phone or email or ??

I really want to do this but am apprehensive about messing something up and having the board go *poof* especially at a time when folks need it the most.

Thank you again... your help is truly appreciated. :)

[Kerry-Anne]

Support is via our ticket system (email). We do offer phone support, although this is on a contract basis and must be paid for before using it.