Hi Reno,
I have a lot of plans for the site and the list, but the timing of delivery is mainly down to how much time I can afford to
assign to it.
I have already written over half the code for it, but am in the process of completely rewriting the underlying Content
Management System (CMS) and launching a new business around it so I need to get that sorted before doing the rest. I have about
a dozen sites to go onto the CMS in the first weeks of January when we launch and will then move the LC site onto it and start
to do more.
The new system will eventually provide the following:
The list will be split up into a number of smaller lists covering specific subjects relating to different models and useage.
You will be able to post to the list either via email as now, or via a web interface.
You will be able to receive posts to the list via email as now, or go and view them on the website as with web forums.
All messages on the email side will automatically be cleaned up to being text only.
For those using company email, you will be able to have corporate disclaimers stripped out automatically.
You will need to register to use the list providing details of vehicle and location which will help when people answer your
questions.
All posts to the list since it started 18months ago will be available on the web for searching.
You will be able to attach files to the posts to the list, which will be automatically stored on the website with links to them
being put in your posts, although there may be some initial restrictions and number/size of files.
All messages will be threaded properly and code will be put in place to prevent thread hijacking.
Any technical questions I answer (like the latest thread on diff locks) will be posted to a technical library, rather than the
list to provide a detailed public FAQ section. I will also edit and re-publish other peoples technical responses in the same
way (assuming permission to do so).
I am also toying with providing archives for about 10 other lists that I subscribe to - some are already available at
birfield.com, but the hope would be to provide more detailed and intelligent searches.
Also on the website we are aiming for:
A technical dictionary for providing descriptions of the various acronyms used like CDL (Centre Diff Lock), etc.
A database of all models of Landcruiser so you can establish the exact model number you have (e.g. HDJ80, KZJ70, etc)
A Database of product manufacturers for everything from winches, suspension, lights, etc.
A database of suppliers of the above. They will be provided with a facility so that they can keep their profiles up to date.
By registering you should be able to pull up lists of manufacturers and suppliers that supply kit for your model - all searches
should automatically be tailoured for your particular model.
It is a hell of a lot to do, but I think the hard work will be worth it. I have been using the internet since the early
nineties (before it was known as the web) and have gained a hell of a lot from it. This is my chance to give something back.
--
Regards,
Julian Voelcker
Mobile: 07971 540362
Cirencester, United Kingdom
1994 HDJ80, 2.5" OME Lift