Is this difficult to use

[julesh]

Hi

Now that I have worked out how to start up my forum - today's big question is

How difficult would it be for somebody who knows no code and is pretty basic with computers to run a forum using vB?

Once I get the forum going and we get some members (hopefully) how much time do you spend on administration and moderating your forums? Obvisously the bigger the forum the more time it takes but if anyone could tell me how big their forum is and how much time they work on it it would be helpful. I also know I need to factor in adding content and posts to my forum - which I am guessing to keep it moving would be a fair bit of time.

Even though I think I have a great idea - I don't want to be unrealistic about what it takes to keep this forum going.

Thanks

[schwab2clarkson]

Good question. One that can be answered. Best to go in a partership with somebody that can write code. That way you have got somebody on there who can deal with all the upgrades and whatever else you might need.

As for keeping the board going. Try and make your forum really interesting. Many people like sports forums so you can talk sport all day long. Make sure that you are focussed on all sports and nothing else.

If you were doing one on dogs you could have all breeds of dog as your main board, then have smaller categories with tricks, food, walks.

[julesh]

Hi

The topic for the forum doesn't concern me as it is exactly like you said one of those topics people always want to talk about.

My big concern is the code and I don't know anyone who can write code.

I also want to be sure that I can commit enough time to this as I have other obligations like being a mum and wife and until this starts to make money keeping my existing business running.

[Coreye]

Installing vBulletin is very easy, you just have to follow the steps given. If you get stuck you can always ask for help on here.

You only need to edit the code of vBulletin if you customize it in some way that's not possible by using the admin CP.

You can also make active members moderators and they can help moderate and run the forum.

vBulletin is not difficult at all to use.

[Abhi9]

Its easy for a non-technical person to use/run vB. You can even install mods and styles without knowing how to write a single line of code, although its better to know a thing or two in case something goes wrong.
If you don't know how to use a particular feature of vB, you can always open a support ticket.

[julesh]

Thanks for the advice.
My DH and I went through the online manual last night. The area I wasn't sure about he was confident on. So hopefully with his help and the support from vB we should manage.

As for the time commitment I guess that will be more in the beginning whilst I am trying to get it off the ground. Eventually I hope to have many experts posting on the forum.

Next job - learn about merchant software and payment gateways.

Thanks

[TomJames]

Good luck :)