After searching around for an easy open-source client extranet, I decided to take a look at Wordpress to see if I can make it happen. I downloaded their latest version, Ella and installed it in its own directory.
The “hardest part” (that’s a bit ‘o sarcasm) will be creating a new category for each client and assigning that category-specific post a password (and remembering the client passwords). Basically the client can see the progress of their project and then leave any comments they’d like about their project. Best part of it all, I don’t have to pay for something like Basecamp, keeping more profits for myself.
I’m currently thinking about a few other options to add to my “extranet” to make it more functional for everyone. One thing I’m definitely going to add is file uploading on the client side. Something else I’m going to look into is integrating Vanilla forums—don’t know if there will be any use there for me and my extranet but it doesn’t hurt to check into it.
If you have any suggestions, pass them on!
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Propaganda Party is the digital soapbox of web designer Jen Huls.
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6 People Have Bloviated
Rob Lowe | Jan 26
First off, I love the site.
More, or maybe less importantly, if you are looking for something to allow you to collaborate with clients, I would suggest ActiveCollab. I have been using it for maybe 6 months with really good luck. It’s still in “beta” but just about everything in the web is nowadays.
Magda | Jan 26
Great idea! Just wanted to comment on the site. Love the design and the way you describe your services.. very lay-person, which is great! I’ll be checking back, cheers!
Pop Stalin | Jan 26
@Rob I’ll have to check into that. I think I’ve looked at it before but never hurts to revisit. And thanks for the kind words.
@Magda Thanks. I figure the best way to describe something that folks may not know about it use their language.
Pop Stalin | Jan 26
@Rob Just wanted to follow-up and say that ActiveCollab looks very appealing. Unfortunately my host doesn’t offer PHP5. Maybe if they upgrade I’ll be able to give it a try.
Paul | Jul 24
I read something about how it’s best to ditch the Admin user for security purposes. I have been experimenting with MU and the recommendation is to create a new user, assign administrator privileges to the new user, log out as Admin user, log in as the new user and delete the Admin user or at least strip the privileges. This prevents a brute force password attempt on the default Admin user from achieving anything.
Paul | Jul 24
Oh, and never divulge the new administrators user name, or post messages under that account, the idea is to make it so that no-one will guess it.