Is modx form me?

Hello,
I would like to be sure if modx is for me, so I have a few questions, I hope I’m in the right place.

First of all, I’m not a programmer, I do html/css/javascript. I know a little about php and sql, enough to
set local server, build a database and to use some already made scripts. How is this fitting in modx?

Second, I need a cms that is easy for localization, for multilanguage web sites. So for instance, can I make archive like this one on the left side, but in different languages, not only in english
http://blog.venture-skills.co.uk/2007/05/0...ss-layout-tips/
and how easy is it to build an archive like this with modx?

Third, generaly speaking is modx good for news sites, blogs, from a developer point of view, and how easy is
for clients who are not computer experts to administer a web site?

Fourth, I see modx uses modules, but I didnt find a list of available modules?

And, what is a good starting point for learnig modx for someone who has experience with cms sistems?

Thank you!

I say if you want a pure blog, then Wordpress is a good way to go. But if you want something custom-designed, want something unique, and are willing to spend a good bit of time learning, then MODx is for you.

Seriously, spending 10 hours learning MODx now will save you 20 hours later on when you want to customize the look of your Wordpress.

2. There are a few different ways to create multi-language sites.
3. I believe MODx is one of the easiest platforms for my clients to use. (And once you get into MODx, you can make it even easier)
4. The modules you see are not the same as Mambo/Joomla modules. But there is a list of addons here: http://modxcms.com/resources.html

Starting point-
1. Setup MODx on localhost with all default settings
(a) Create another localhost install of MODx with no content
2. Add some content to the second install
(a) Learn how to use Wayfinder (the menu builder addon)
(b) Learn how to use the basics of Ditto (then take a break)
(c) Learn how to create a Contact Form with eForm addon (then learn some more stuff about Ditto)

If you learn how to use those three addons in that order (Wayfinder, Ditto, eForm, and Ditto), then you’ll be able to crank out some simple sites in no-time.

*The reason I said create a default install and a blank install. I’ve found it’s easier to learn MODx by breaking down each little item (Wayfinder, or a chunk) and learning it through doing it.

Like you, I am a designer with only minimal skill working with PHP, mySQL. MODx has become my application of choice for several reasons. First, it is lightweight and flexible. You build to suit the project. Second, I really like it that I write the XHTML / CSS files and then "fill-in" the snippets and modules where they are supposed to go.

I have used Joomla and WP. Both are nice - especially WP if you need a blog only (ProWebscape is right on). But MODx gives me the ability to control every aspect of the project.

As for clients and the admin I have done two things. First, if possible only allow them to use the Web Login feature. This is a no brainer for most and they ’love how easy it is’ to add new content. Second, I have developed my own ’manual’ to give to the administrator that explains in very simple terms how to do the basic things. It’s just a few pages long but it continues to grow with each project. More complex stuff I ask them to call me.

Can’t say anything about the multilanguage question.

Best wishes!

It sounds like you know enough to use MODx to advantage.

It’s very easy to have people who are not very computer savvy administer MODx sites but it takes some effort to set it up.

The down side of MOdx for you, I think, is that MODx has no pre-packaged blog add-on. It provides some components to build your own blog but it take some effort to do and, of course, you’ll have to learn the MODx way of doing things first.

For a news site, otoh, I don’t think there’s anything better than MODx. The Ditto snippet will do everything you want and you can easily make the site look any way you want it to.

The site in my sig has some information about what it’s like to work with MODx and, if you want to play around to see if you like it, check out the "Getting Started with MODx" page.

Bob

Ok then, I’ll give it a try, thank you all for help.