TheFactoryFiveForum.com Version 2.0

[David Hodgkins]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228186&d=1776209772

The time has come. Or I should say, is coming soon.

Twenty years ago on April 23rd 2006, I took delivery of my beautiful MKIII, ol' 5369. In honor of that auspicious occasion, I am shooting for that day to be the launch of public testing of The Factory Five Forum, version 2.0.

The Factory Five Forum version 2.0 is a reimagining of what can be the most impactful tool for our unique community. This is not just "Forum Software", this is completely new, modern experience designed from the ground up for Factory Five builders and dreamers. It uses the latest tech and will feel very familiar the both the traditional forum crowd, as well as newer user experiences like Facebook and Instagram.

I've been a member of this community for 20+ years. I built and have run this forum for 15+ years. Moreover, I am a software developer with over 30 years with everything from startups to very large public entities. I've never been as proud to present something new as I am this new "thing" to our community.

I hope you LOVE it, and I'm ready for the comments. I'll be posting more teasers soon. All the features I post will be working code, not a mockup.

:)

[Papa]

Looks nice, Dave. Will our past and current build threads be transfered to the new forum when it goes live?

Dave

[JimStone]

I'm interested to see the new site.

I'm sure I'm not alone having some trepidations with a new format. I've grown up with this style of message board, so there is a comfort factor there.

I do hope there is still a home page running the newest posts, regardless of subforum they were posted in

[Skuzzy]

I hope it is okay to ask,...what is it built on (vBulletin, SMF, Xenforo, phpBB, custom...)? I'll take the comparison to Facebook and Instagram with a grain of salt, as I am not a fan of either.

[Jeff Kleiner]

Waiting to see but meanwhile my question is “what is this supposed to fix?’”

Jeff

[Skuzzy]

Waiting to see but meanwhile my question is “what is this supposed to fix?’”

Jeff

I would speculate there are options available in the new software which will allow him to implement things that are difficult to do in current version of vBulletin. I did software development for over 40 years and that was always the compelling reason to implement major upgrades.

[David Hodgkins]

Looks nice, Dave. Will our past and current build threads be transferred to the new forum when it goes live?

Dave

That is TBD. The structure of build threads in particular is different than the new Build Logs. The old site is NOT going away, although it will be archived at some point, meaning it will be read-only. Searches on the new site will be enhanced to use data from both sites.


I'm interested to see the new site.

I'm sure I'm not alone having some trepidations with a new format. I've grown up with this style of message board, so there is a comfort factor there.

I do hope there is still a home page running the newest posts, regardless of subforum they were posted in

The forums on the new site will act very much like you are used to. Yes, recent posts will be retained, in a prominent position on the "Home" (forum) page. I think you will find working with forums, threads and replies to be familiar, but enhanced for ease of use. The main difference there will be the ability to deal with images in a "Facebook" kind of way, with drag and drop combined with automatic file conversion to a common, optimized format and the ability to crop and zoom images as part up the upload.


I hope it is okay to ask,...what is built on (vBulletin, SMF, Xenforo, phpBB, custom...)? I'll take the comparison to Facebook and Instagram with a grain of salt, as I am not a fan of either.

This is all custom code, using modern libraries and frameworks like React for the ui and .NET for the back end. At this point the API's will not be public. I'm taking what works for Facebook (React UI libraries) and combining it with the forum paradigm of easily accessible post history and the ability to find previous threads, posts, etc. Have you ever posted on Facebook and tried to find it later? This site will NOT be that.


Waiting to see but meanwhile my question is “what is this supposed to fix?’”

Jeff

The biggest goal as far as "fixing" goes is to streamline media handling and make the site fully responsive, so that it works - and looks great - on any device. Also, The former classified section is being reworked to improve the user experience and deal with scammers. Another area is PM's. You know what I'm talking about if you've ever had any kind of prolonged back and forth with somebody. The "Reply History" can become pretty ugly after just a few replies. If you check out the PM message above (formatted as if it is being viewed on a phone) you will see how you can easily hide that history, but it is still just a single click away.

Those are fixes.

The new site has some features not seen before, like Build Logs and Picture Of the Month contest (POM). More on that in a bit. The site will launch with 2 themes - "Dark" and "Light" - as shown in the first pic posted in this thread. That pic shows how the site will be seen in light mode on a phone to the left, and dark mode on a PC or tablet on the right.

:)

[David Hodgkins]

I would speculate there are options available in the new software which will allow him to implement things that are difficult to do in current version of vBulletin. I did software development for over 40 years and that was always the compelling reason to implement major upgrades.

I actually went down the route of upgrading vBulletin. I couldn't get it to do the things I wanted. Although easier to set up initially, I wasn't looking forward to another round of "beat to fit, bend to match", like the current POM, for example.

:)

[David Hodgkins]

Ultimately the goal here is to use the ui technology of today and build a new state-of-the-art wildly enhanced forum for our specific hobby, or lifestyle if you're a guy like me.

Lets start with the Home page, which is also the Forums.

The main thing you see right at the top are navigation, search, alerts, and either a profile link, or Login/Register buttons in the header. Then the Gold and Silver advertisers, separated by a wall-to-wall slide show. It featuring call to action slides, which encourage new users to visit different areas of the site. These will be minimal in number, perhaps one or two at a time. The rest of the slides will feature the previous 6 month's POM winners.

Here's the top portion of the Home page with a call to action slide:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228207&d=1776270561

...and here it is on a phone browser, with a POM Winner:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228209&d=1776272197

:)

[David Hodgkins]

pt 2...

For the purposes of this thread I'm only going to use desktop screen captures going forward. I'm also partial to the dark theme, but that's just me.

Since the Forum page is also the Home page, it gets the most "fluff" at the top. Below that are the forums. It's tabbed with Latest Forum Activity as the default:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228215&d=1776284149

A couple of things to note here.

The use of pages. No doom scrolling, which is a Facebook thing, not a forum thing. Again, trying to bring the best from both worlds.
This list is of Latest FORUM Activity, not Latest SITE Activity. There is an additional tab to choose between them, because this is the Home page.
Forum Activity covers threads starter posts and thread replies. The Site Activity Tab is self explanetory.
The footer. Consider this a placeholder, directly from my prototype. WITH the exception of the theme picker, nothing works and content is wrong.


The row is clickable to get to the post, and the Author's name is a link to their profile page.

The Forums Tab:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228216&d=1776284521

I am in favor of keeping the forum count down, and using tags as a means to classify and search. otherwise the ui will be more complicated. I'm open to opinions.

That's all for now, I have get back to it.

:)

[JTG]

I have been at a few companies that have updated / upgraded their ERP software while working there and the progression was something like this: Scary, Confusing, This is stupid, I think I get it, Brilliant!

I'm not comparing the complexity to ERP software, just saying that I'm on board with whatever you have planned.

Thanks for everything!
Jon

[Skuzzy]

I actually went down the route of upgrading vBulletin. I couldn't get it to do the things I wanted. Although easier to set up initially, I wasn't looking forward to another round of "beat to fit, bend to match", like the current POM, for example.

:)

I know what you mean. I inherited vBulletin at the last company I worked for and after one upgrade, decided to switch to something else. I never did anything which depended on third party sites either. I knew too many who got burned by that.

Always exciting to deploy something new. Good luck with it!!

[tundra2050]

I've never been a fan of social media. This site is the only social media worth being a part of.

Dave, thanks for what you've done and continue to do to improve this site!

[edwardb]

I have been at a few companies that have updated / upgraded their ERP software while working there and the progression was something like this: Scary, Confusing, This is stupid, I think I get it, Brilliant!

I'm not comparing the complexity to ERP software, just saying that I'm on board with whatever you have planned.

Thanks for everything!
Jon

Too funny. Back when I actually had to work for a living, I was on teams and leading teams that were inflicting ERP software changes at multiple sites for large multi-national manufacturing companies. In addition to training on the software, the migration, etc. we had a major educational track on change management. Because we found, and studies confirm it, that well over 50% of people react negatively to change no matter what. It helped some but most went through the exact stages you described. We were always on the lookout for early adaptors who could help mentor those who struggled. After a year or so, most of the naysayers wouldn't go back for any reason. But it was a painful process and we did lose a few along the way who just wouldn't change.

Although different as you said, this forum migration has some of the same dynamics you described. Already people are asking why, I don't want to lose my favorite feature(s), don't make me work differently, etc. David, I applaud you for what you've done with this forum and the work you've invested to make it newer, fresher, better, etc. Count me in as one will do my best to adapt as necessary and enjoy the improvements.

[edwardb]

Hey David. Tried to send you a PM several times. "David Hodgkins has exceeded their stored private messages quota and cannot accept further messages until they clear some space." Happens even to site administrators. :)

[Jeff Kleiner]

Hey Hodgkins! I got your PM but couldn't respond because your mailbox is full so I'll just reply here:

My answer is YES! Don't forget though that I'm old, cranky and ordinarily resistant to change :D

Jeff

[David Hodgkins]

Sorry about that guys! I cleaned it up a bit and pms should be good to go now.

:)

[Blitzboy54]

Dave, I did not get your email but would would be happy to beta test the new site :)

[David Hodgkins]

Hey, check this out. You like?

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228253&d=1776363228

:)

[TrackDay17]

Thanks for all the hard work building and keeping this place running.
Without this place for us newbies to learn from the master builders and get help when we screw up there would be a lot more unfinished kits out there.

[Aleinsteingenius]

I just want to be able to post pictures again.

[Lugnut Mark]

Me too lol …. Post pics that is !

[PMD24]

Thank you for all of the time you've put into this.

Pat

[myjones]

Hey David. Tried to send you a PM several times. "David Hodgkins has exceeded their stored private messages quota and cannot accept further messages until they clear some space." Happens even to site administrators. :)

I had the same experience with his full mailbox yesterday. He's probably spending too much time on cars ;)

[weendoggy]

Hey, check this out. You like?

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228253&d=1776363228

:)

To me, the thin strips of "vehicles" is a distraction and looks messy. But, tmo.

[mrmustang]

To me, the thin strips of "vehicles" is a distraction and looks messy. But, tmo.

I will second this, a turn off to those seeking substance and not glamour. Perhaps make that item a stand alone page of it's own so as to not clutter up the basic function of the forum. If anything, doing so will make it less taxing on not only the server, but the users optics as well.

Less is more


Bill S.

[dbo_texas]

Excited to see this new forum. I've been thinking it's about time to update the backend. If it works better on mobile and allows easier adding pictures/videos from your phone, that's a huge win for me. I actually rarely use my desktop except to update my build thread (due to uploading pictures, etc). So this would be nice to have a clean interface on mobile devices.

[David Hodgkins]

Excited to see this new forum. I've been thinking it's about time to update the backend. If it works better on mobile and allows easier adding pictures/videos from your phone, that's a huge win for me. I actually rarely use my desktop except to update my build thread (due to uploading pictures, etc). So this would be nice to have a clean interface on mobile devices.

I have the new site up in the cloud and I am adding support for .heic images now. Once that and an email provider are in place I will be ready for user testing!

:)

[David Hodgkins]

https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/

Have a look!

:)

[PNWTim]

Looks great! I can't wait.

[mrmustang]

https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/

Have a look!

:)

Forum list backgrounds are distracting, font should be one larger

Bill S.

[MSumners]

Current account login and passwords carry over or we should create new accounts?

Thanks

[David Hodgkins]

Create a new account. If you match your current ID I'm planning to datamine this site later for carryover capabilities.

:)

EDIT: The URL is temporary. DNS hostname in our domain is coming next week.

[David Hodgkins]

There is a migration path between the old and new systems. So, feel free to register and play with the new system, but I don't know how permanent the data will be. so don't get too elaborate with build logs and threads. Marketplace will probably be turned off for launch, we shall see. Other small stuff to do still, like the footer and a "like" system, and emojis...

:)

[progmgr1]

Dumb question from an old fart (and Twitter / Facebook non-user): what is the difference between a build log and the old build threads? What are the advantages to the new system?

Thank you for all the work you're putting into the Forum! I may not understand it, but I appreciate it.

Keith HR #894

[David Hodgkins]

Dumb question from an old fart (and Twitter / Facebook non-user): what is the difference between a build log and the old build threads? What are the advantages to the new system?

Thank you for all the work you're putting into the Forum! I may not understand it, but I appreciate it.

Keith HR #894

Great question. A Build log has some features not yet available in build threads:

It incorporates build milestones. Milestones are displayed as a status of the build. There are currently 16 build milestones
It has a Build Log Entry Timeline. A build log Timeline can be thought of as a sub-thread to the main build thread. Yes, the Build log has a comments section, but each Build Log Entry also has comments so discussions can be more focused around each build log entry



I'm a visual learner so this is what it looks like:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228350&d=1776638053

The last build milestone is Graduation. Graduated builds are featured on the home page in the same way recent POM winners are.

:)

[David Hodgkins]

Here's a pic of a Graduated build featured on the Home (Forum) Page

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228352&d=1776639199

:)

[David Hodgkins]

Reserved for build log timeline entry

[gbranham]

I sure hope build threads port over. So many of us worked so hard to build and maintain them, and they've been a huge resource for so many new folks. Would be a shame to lose them, and I'd bet most folks would rather keep the old forum than lose the build threads.

[David Hodgkins]

I sure hope build threads port over. So many of us worked so hard to build and maintain them, and they've been a huge resource for so many new folks. Would be a shame to lose them, and I'd bet most folks would rather keep the old forum than lose the build threads.

I share your concerns. My build threads mean a lot to
Me too. I'll be working on a migration

[peterh226]

This is great to see! The audience for this is a really important element of this project.
The Facebook groups for Factory Five have become the random question zone. Also, there are several (at least 5?) groups that all overlap and do not provide the readable log and learning that we see in the Forum entries.

We need a modern site for Factory five builders to discuss and have a good information source. Searching on the old Forum has become a hassle but is still better than Facebook, Instagram, or others.

Have you talked with some of the active, young or new builders about the forum compared to Facebook? I bet some of them don't even know the forum exists.
I think the Build log is the core of this as the questions and answers all need the context of the build.
I like the idea of milestones, but these will vary with vehicle. Also, the order is usually not linear. These could be filters for a thread as well. Maybe its a combination of topics and milestones we can use to categorize a topic for search.

Ordered
Space Ready
Delivered
Drivetrain (engine and trans)
Frame, Suspension, and Brakes (including panels)
Fuel, Coolant, Coolers. A/C (stuff with hoses)
Electrical
First Drive
Body Prep and fitting
Doors, Hood, and Trunk.
Interior
Registration
Graduation


I think that a flag for Safety related items could be useful as well. Steering, Suspension, or brake issues where either instructions or components don't work as designed or maybe expected.

I applaud your efforts. Change is hard.

[David Hodgkins]

I'm working on data migration.

:)

[Skuzzy]

I do not envy your data migration. I did this once for a site which had over 3 million posts in it. The hardest part for me was fixing all the internal links, in the posts, to point to the right place. Good luck!

[David Hodgkins]

I do not envy your data migration. I did this once for a site which had over 3 million posts in it. The hardest part for me was fixing all the internal links, in the posts, to point to the right place. Good luck!

You ain't kidding! I don't even want to think about internal links! I'm trying to run an attachment migrator right now.

I'm feelin' it y'all. This is a tough part.

:)

[Skuzzy]

You ain't kidding! I don't even want to think about internal links! I'm trying to run an attachment migrator right now.

I'm feelin' it y'all. This is a tough part.

:)

Hopefully, you have a SQL back end. The vBulletin SQL table layout is not too bad. My stuff probably would not be much help to you (PHP and C). I was on a UNIX OS with MySQL backend.

[PNWTim]

Is Thursday the anticipated transition day?

[Jeff Kleiner]

Is Thursday the anticipated transition day?

Let's hope not :eek: David asked me to do some user Beta testing and there are still some things to be sorted out.

Jeff

[David Hodgkins]

Let's hope not :eek: David asked me to do some user Beta testing and there are still some things to be sorted out.

Jeff

Jeff, I'm not sure what your issue is uploading images from a phone. I've use 3 different phones including an iPhone 16 pro and do not have any issues.

I have the site turned off for maintenance while I upload data. In about 3 hours I'll have data moved over. All except images, which will take a while.

:)

[David Hodgkins]

Is Thursday the anticipated transition day?

I'm still shooting for Thursday.

As soon as it is turned back on I'll let you all know. No on except Jeff and my daughter have actually tried to USE the forum. There's been about 10-15 signups but everyone is a lookie-loo!

:)

[danmas]

Requires an alternative email address? Says my current one is already taken….

Edit: I see you have ported over user names and passwords. No new account required.

[David Hodgkins]

Data Migration is proceeding.

Those that signed up before today - I have to merge your accounts

site now runs slow with additional data. time to do some table indexing

EDIT I thought the site was off. Sorry, going to kick the folks currently online off for a bit while this migration happens. I want to work on performance after that is done, then I'll bring the site back up

[RobHartley]

It's interesting reading the responses, I was in in software technical product management for over30+ years and change was always challenging especially with an established loyal user group, even changing a menu ordering caused panic and concern, going from Windows 3.x to Windows 95 was chaos. Change is inevitable especially with security and platform upgrades, migration of build forums will definitely make the transition smoother. SVP Product Management Trulioo (retired)

[David Hodgkins]

I need to work on this data locally before migrating it to the live site. It was a mistake to move data too soon.

I'm leaving the site down for now. I don't want you guys getting a bad impression. I'll be back in a bit with an update.

:)

[David Hodgkins]

I have control of site features so I opened the site with limited functionality while I work some data issues out.

I have migrated users. Can a current user of this site attempt a login on the new site site and tell me if it works?

I'd do this myself but I'm dealing with migration data quality right now...

:)

[Railroad]

I was in the group having trouble viewing the site, due to slow loading of pages with pictures.
I was using AT&T on copper wire and changed to internet air, which showed 267 mbps strength.
I recently upgraded to fiber optic, strength 300 mbps.
This step up in strength resolved my issues, in viewing and progressing through the site.
Hope this gives some insight or helps others.

[David Hodgkins]

I was in the group having trouble viewing the site, due to slow loading of pages with pictures.
I was using AT&T on copper wire and changed to internet air, which showed 267 mbps strength.
I recently upgraded to fiber optic, strength 300 mbps.
This step up in strength resolved my issues, in viewing and progressing through the site.
Hope this gives some insight or helps others.

New or old (current) site?

Can you log in to the new site using your old (current site) credentials?

:)

[Dmac800]

I was able to log into the new site with my current login from the old site.

[David Hodgkins]

I was able to log into the new site with my current login from the old site.

Awesome! What do you guys think about this quote setup?

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228441&d=1776812704

[David Hodgkins]

I am currently loading up build threads into build logs. this is a big deal for a lot of you folks so I'm gonna pay attention to feedback. Remember though, Images are a "thing", to import separately...

[danmas]

I like the quote setup.

[Skuzzy]

I got into the new site with my login and password. Quote setup is nice.

I get what you are doing with the different kits represented in the name of the forums, but it does look a bit busy. How about reversing it? Put a collective picture of all the models in the background with the forum names overlaying it in a white panel and make it slightly transparent? Just a thought.

Pretty sure aesthetics are more of an annoyance right now with all the work you have in the data migration. I just wanted to note it, or I would forget.

[Papa]

https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/

Have a look!

:)

I was able to log on and look around. Did you want folks playing with this yet? I didn't want to do anything without knowing it was okay first.

Dave

[egchewy79]

dave
Do you need more beta testers?
I wasn't aware if this was available to just anyone or if you needed a special invitation/link.

[Tooth]

Says registration closed.

[PNWTim]

Quote setup looks good. Clear and easy to read. Hopefully editing capabilities will be improved as well.

[Papa]

Says registration closed.

You can log in using your email address and password that you use for this site.

[egchewy79]

what's the site? I didn't see it on this thread.

[David Hodgkins]

what's the site? I didn't see it on this thread.

https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/

I'm doing lots of local testing and re-importing of data currently.

If you are a member of this site you can use your current login, as others have noticed.

Go ahead and play with it; just know that the data you post may be temporary. I'm particularly interested in image uploads, both desktop and mobile. Mobile has been the biggest question mark so far; I know Jeff Kleiner has had some issues. I'd like other folks top try in and tell me their thoughts.

:)

[Tooth]

Won't let me add an avatar. Push save, and it sort of blinks, then does not add it. From a desktop with the new windows.

[Tooth]

Also, logged in, but only thing that seems to be there is pom. Link to register is there, though I'm logged in.

[David Hodgkins]

I see there are a lot of errors happening. Sorry about that. The platform will be much more stable later today.

:)

[tnt_motorsports]

https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/

I'm doing lots of local testing and re-importing of data currently.

If you are a member of this site you can use your current login, as others have noticed.

Go ahead and play with it; just know that the data you post may be temporary. I'm particularly interested in image uploads, both desktop and mobile. Mobile has been the biggest question mark so far; I know Jeff Kleiner has had some issues. I'd like other folks top try in and tell me their thoughts.

:)

I get an invalid email or password error when trying to log into the new site. I had previously registered when you started this thread. Maybe that is the issue...??

[Papa]

https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/

Have a look!

:)


what's the site? I didn't see it on this thread.


https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/

I'm doing lots of local testing and re-importing of data currently.

If you are a member of this site you can use your current login, as others have noticed.

Go ahead and play with it; just know that the data you post may be temporary. I'm particularly interested in image uploads, both desktop and mobile. Mobile has been the biggest question mark so far; I know Jeff Kleiner has had some issues. I'd like other folks top try in and tell me their thoughts.

:)

I logged on to "play". I tried to create a new thread with a picture and it wouldn't let me with or without the picture. I also tried to reply to an existing post with no luck.

[Jeff Kleiner]

David,
Just tried to log in with the same email and password that I've been using since 4/15 and am getting an "invalid email or password" message :confused:

Jeff

[David Hodgkins]

David,
Just tried to log in with the same email and password that I've been using since 4/15 and am getting an "invalid email or password" message :confused:

Jeff

Sorry about that Jeff. My bad. I'll fix your account right after lunch.

:)

[Jeff Kleiner]

Sorry about that Jeff. My bad. I'll fix your account right after lunch.

:)

I'm still locked out. Guess you're taking a long lunch ;) :D :p

[David Hodgkins]

I logged on to "play". I tried to create a new thread with a picture and it wouldn't let me with or without the picture. I also tried to reply to an existing post with no luck.


David,
Just tried to log in with the same email and password that I've been using since 4/15 and am getting an "invalid email or password" message :confused:

Jeff


I'm still locked out. Guess you're taking a long lunch ;) :D :p

ACK!

Yes, I am very busy downloading analyzing converting. Things are looking much better locally. I'm almost done with poms. Here's a POM from our cloud storage. I'm almost done with poms locally: Then I'll move the data online.

228484

:)

[egchewy79]

not able to log in or register. I'm sure you're on it.

[David Hodgkins]

not able to log in or register. I'm sure you're on it.

yep. User glitch will be fixed in a bit. Very busy with data converting. About 2 hours from having Build logs (hopefully). Posts and threads work locally, need to transfer. Last big thing will be images in threads

POM is live, check it out on the POM page https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/pom as well POM displays on the home page

:)

[David Hodgkins]

Still moving images, Learned a lot along the way. The site has come a LONG way in performance locally.

POM is done, you can out all the past winners. Build Logs are almost done, in terms of image data. The big one is forum threads and post images. I have the data locally. Looking 95% there. Quoted replies look great.

I got too much sleep at 5 hours last night. Maybe if I pulled and all nighter I would have made it today.

Day's not over yet though.

:)

[AC Bill]

Well... I tried to sign in to the new forum, to make a comment and test drive it, but that didn't work. :( I was curious if a photo could be simply pasted to a post, rather than having to attach it using a file. I really like that aspect on some other forums I belong to.

The instructions were "Sign in using your factory five forums account", but it's asking for an e-mail address? I always have just used my screen name, not an e-mail address to sign in. So anyways I tried putting in my g-mail address and it still didn't work.. Hmmm..:(

I personally have no issues with the current forum whatsoever, and kind of hope it remains as is. I have happily used it since it's inception, spurned on by rumors that the original FFCars.com forum was going to shut down.. Turns out that never happened, but it has become heavily politicized, which I hope this forum never does..

Interestingly, two popular Facebook groups who's subjects are about Cobras, posted by, and for, replica builders/owners, recently did a survey on ages of the owners. The response was quite significant.. I'm really curious to know what the average age would turn out to be, but it seems there was a very large number in the over 55 age group, in both surveys. I was amazed at the large number of owners in their 70's and even 80's.
It's commonly known older people are resistant to, and dislike, change.. Me too.:)
If this new forum is not very similar in it's layout and workings to this current one, it risks ending up being a real bomb, especially with our..lets say,.. mature forum members.

Right away I see the classified section is showing that a service fee will be charged for cars and parts.. I hope that is a joke.

[David Hodgkins]

Time for an update.

POM's and Build Logs are live

Login issues for the 10 folks caught behind a migration have been corrected and folks should be able to log in with their current password from here

Bill I can switch up the login, give me a few to deal with higher priority stuff at the moment.

re: the former classifieds, future marketplace. We are setting up Marketplace to be safe, with escrowed payments until both parties are satisfied and then money is released. This will stop scammers. There is a cost involved with that, a price for that security. More on that in a bit.

I've got the forum and post data on my local pc. I'm waiting for the images to be swapped out for their new cloud-based home

RE: Build logs. I have made it easy to replace the broken image. There is also a way to experiment with converting your flat build thread into a build log. You can switch between the two to get a feel for where replies live in both scenarios.

Build logs now have build galleries you can use to set your "Build Log All Star" images that will go in your build carousel and you can choose your cover photo from your build all star pics. The build gallery is built automatically from all the pics in YOUR build posts.

It's a lot easier than it sounds. Check out my TROJAN build (USE THE SEARCH!) for how an extensive build log can look when converted from a flat style to build log entries;

Here's the url to my Build Log, but TRY THE SEARCH: https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/build-logs/14958

:)

[Jeff33Ford]

That really looks great and organized. As someone who looks through build post quite often for ideas and suggestions on a specific topic, this will be fantastic! Thanks for going the extra mile David.

[Jeff Kleiner]

Good news: I was finally able to log in again!

Bad news: All attempts to post a reply in the "test anything thread" result in a Failed to post reply message.

Jeff

[Papa]

Dave,

I'm prepared to move forward with the new forum. Looking at how my current build thread ported over, I'm likely going to just try to start from scratch with the new format. When will we be able to start creating content and making posts? Like Jeff, any attempt to create or reply results in an error for me.

Thank you for all your hard work,
Dave

[myjones]

Hey Hodgkins! I got your PM but couldn't respond because your mailbox is full so I'll just reply here:

My answer is YES! Don't forget though that I'm old, cranky and ordinarily resistant to change :D

Jeff
YES
I will sign up as a charter member in Jeff's OCRC club
Finally found something on here I have the skill set for ;}

[Papa]

Dave,

I'm prepared to move forward with the new forum. Looking at how my current build thread ported over, I'm likely going to just try to start from scratch with the new format. When will we be able to start creating content and making posts? Like Jeff, any attempt to create or reply results in an error for me.

Thank you for all your hard work,
Dave

Dave,

Taking a bit more time to see how the comments came in once on my PC vs. phone, starting over isn't a consideration any longer. I'm seeing the full thread come in with pictures and it looks pretty clean except for external links, which I believe you said you'd be working later.

I do have a few recommendations for you when you're ready to look at them:

1. On the Build Logs page, it would be nice to have a way to sort the logs in a couple of ways like by most recent activity, etc.

2. In the Comments area, could the page navigation be added to the bottom of the page so you don't have to scroll back to the top to go to the next page?

3. We need a way to edit the main entry text. My old thread used BB Code tables for an index, which don't seem to be supported, and I'd want to edit that garbage out.

Thank you,
Dave

[Jeff Kleiner]

So.....
When I go to build threads there seems to be little rhyme or reason to their arrangement, such as by date, etc. For example I went looking for Papa's Coupe build thread and couldn't find it. Every thread is authored by "Unknown" and every reply is from "Deleted user" so we don't know who we're talking to, asking or answering. Even though I hit the tab for Coupe while looking for Dave's build thread builds some of the content that came up was for roadsters and was some was random questions that may or may not be part of a build thread...hard to know because you can't see whether there is some other text preceding. When I do open a full build thread (Lugnut Mark's) there are no photos displayed. I assume that will be resolved.

I still can't make a reply. In the meantime I think I'll just wait until you tell us that it is done, up and running because currently I'm not finding that it is not functional enough to critique.

Jeff

[Papa]

So.....
When I go to build threads there seems to be little rhyme or reason to their arrangement, such as by date, etc. For example I went looking for Papa's Coupe build thread and couldn't find it. Every thread is authored by "Unknown" and every reply is from "Deleted user" so we don't know who we're talking to, asking or answering. Even though I hit the tab for Coupe while looking for Dave's build thread builds some of the content that came up was for roadsters and was some was random questions that may or may not be part of a build thread...hard to know because you can't see whether there is some other text preceding. When I do open a full build thread (Lugnut Mark's) there are no photos displayed. I assume that will be resolved.

I still can't make a reply. In the meantime I think I'll just wait until you tell us that it is done, up and running because currently I'm not finding that it is not functional enough to critique.

Jeff

Jeff,

Try the Search bar to find build threads:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228497&d=1777054655

I really want to like the new platform, but for now, I think I just need to wait and see once it is up and running for real. Right now, I can only view what's been pulled in. I can't post anything.

This site is super glitchy now, which I assume is due to the heavy data migration work Dave is doing.

Dave

[David Hodgkins]

The issues we all were having - yes, me too - were related to the set up, and that has been remedied.

Hot fixes are coming in repeatedly while I finish basic setup. I hope you like it better now.

:)

[David Hodgkins]

Forums, threads and posts now moved over! The last 4 days not included.

A detailed post is coming soon, Welcome to your new forum!

:)

[mrmustang]

Forums, threads and posts now moved over! The last 4 days not included.

A detailed post is coming soon, Welcome to your new forum!

:)

So is the main platform running the back end then, or are you going to switch to the new format overnight?


A lot of work, more than most know............You need to take a week off the web and decompress.

Bill S.

[Blitzboy54]

So I logged in and found my build threads but only less than half of it is there (maybe the first page or two). I am getting kind of stressed out about it. I spent a LOT of time building and maintaining them (like hours a week over years). Is there more to come? I don't see a page 2 it just stops.

Would there be a way perhaps to let individuals import their threads over? I can see how migrating all this data can be a lot. I just want to say the build thread a HUGE part of why I do this. Like I am getting anxious, really really anxious.

Sorry, I realize this is free and your only one person. I appreciate what is happening here but I can't lose my builds.

[Papa]

So I logged in and found my build threads but only less than half of it is there (maybe the first page or two). I am getting kind of stressed out about it. I spent a LOT of time building and maintaining them (like hours a week over years). Is there more to come? I don't see a page 2 it just stops.

Would there be a way perhaps to let individuals import their threads over? I can see how migrating all this data can be a lot. I just want to say the build thread a HUGE part of why I do this. Like I am getting anxious, really really anxious.

Sorry, I realize this is free and your only one person. I appreciate what is happening here but I can't lose my builds.

Jesse,

I'm seeing all your build threads on the new site and they look pretty complete to me with hundreds of posts over multiple pages each.

Dave

[Blitzboy54]

Jesse,

I'm seeing all your build threads on the new site and they look pretty complete to me with hundreds of posts over multiple pages each.

Dave

Papa, you are right. Thank you! I didn't see that the page selector under the first post (or what would have been your first post on this forum). I feel better lol. I didn't really think about how connected I am to this forum before this process started. I spend more time with all you guys than my actual friends :)

Question is should I now update both sites? I would assume the migration happened once and it is up to us to update it from here. Speaking of which how long do you think both sites will exist before fully migrating to the new version?

[Papa]

Papa, you are right. Thank you! I didn't see that the page selector under the first post (or what would have been your first post on this forum). I feel better lol. I didn't really think about how connected I am to this forum before this process started. I spend more time with all you guys than my actual friends :)

Question is should I now update both sites? I would assume the migration happened once and it is up to us to update it from here. Speaking of which how long do you think both sites will exist before fully migrating to the new version?

I'll defer to Dave Hodgkins, but my understanding is that this site will become read-only at some point and there likely won't be any more migration of data than what's already been done. I am now using the new site for all build thread/log activity on my Coupe build. My last post in my thread on this site is a link to the new site Build Log.

[peterh226]

We all appreciate your efforts. I'm like several others; I've been in the middle of migration and software projects. Your first migration should not be your production migration! You have time, we are in no hurry, and you have time to really determine the users and the requirements for today's audience.

Take your time.
Get Feedback.
Iterate on the solution.
Then role is all out.
You've got a team of people that will be happy to help.

Good luck!

[weendoggy]

Not spending a lot of time, but not user friendly for me. Click on Forums at the top and you get just recent posts. Then you have to scroll down to past Build Logs, POM"s, etc. (rather large real estate) and click Forums again (faintly highlighted icon) to get the "other" forums. Seems most of the attention is on Build Logs/POM's, which is the first thing I see, along with Vendors (which should be there) supporting. The subtle icons for the Latest Forum Activity, Site Activity and Forums should be a little more "proud" for attention getting. The post listing is blah to me with just regular font color. Maybe it's the older forum "bling" that has me spoiled, but it's not up to me. I know you'll work out the bugs and I'll get used to the new version. I haven't been able to make my selection for recent posts stay beyond the 10 per page. Another extra step. jmo

[Skuzzy]

One of the things I just realized; I have many shortcuts in my browser to threads I use for reference. I hope the URL stays the same for this forum and the new forum gets a new URL or I will lose those links.

[THUNDERSTRUCK]

how do you get to new site just starting and would like my build thread all there

[Blitzboy54]

how do you get to new site just starting and would like my build thread all there

https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/build-logs/14958

My work computer blocks the new URL. Bummer, I waist a lot of time at work over here. lol

[Railroad]

I would guess about 44", LOL

[Skuzzy]

https://thefactoryfiveforum-bkhxambghtdrhjdt.centralus-01.azurewebsites.net/build-logs/14958

My work computer blocks the new URL. Bummer, I waist a lot of time at work over here. lol

As I understand it, this new URL is just temporary until the site goes live.

[Papa]

I've been playing with the new platform quite a bit and I'm really liking how easy it is to work with. I converted my build thread that was imported to the "Timeline" format and like how this format keeps the discussion organized. I've posted a couple of new entries and the simplicity of creating posts with images is very nice. Dave added Rich Text Editing, so now I just type my text and drag and drop an image where I want it to appear and that's it. Dave is also working on a lot of little details as well as some infrastructure items like backups, etc..

Dave

[David Hodgkins]

Thank You Papa for volunteering to take a look around and give feedback!

The site is almost ready. There is some infrastructure hardening to do and I'd like to patch the last weeks worth of data but everything else is there.

Barring major hurdles, I'm planning on switching over Thursday. Last major piece of work is rout mapping. I'd like to make it so those with saved links don't lose those.

:)

I am not bringing over PMs. They will be accessible here read only.

:)

[gbranham]

Thanks so much for grinding on this, David. As you might remember, I also work in IT (have for 30 years), so I can appreciate the work that goes into this. And thanks so much for preserving our build threads. As an aside, I see you're 'open for work' on LinkedIn. Maybe we should talk. I recently assumed the role as Head of IT for one of the nation's bigger law firms. ;)

Greg

[PNWTim]

Thank You Papa for volunteering to take a look around and give feedback!

The site is almost ready. There is some infrastructure hardening to do and I'd like to patch the last weeks worth of data but everything else is there.

Barring major hurdles, I'm planning on switching over Thursday. Last major piece of work is rout mapping. I'd like to make it so those with saved links don't lose those.

:)

I am not bringing over PMs. They will be accessible here read only.

:)

Hi David - I can't wait to see the finished or mostly finished product! Your comment jogged a thought I had a couple of weeks ago about PMing. Will the new platform allow the same amount of versatility with a PM, i.e. pasting photos and video within the message and a broader range of editing? Looking forward to Thursday.

[David Hodgkins]

Right now pms support images. Video will be supported soon I know the storage will handle it I just left it out on the first iteration

:)