[SocialWarfare]

I'm thinking about creating my own website, not based on computers but the sale of all goods and am wondering what level of knowledge is required to set it up?

Will I have to take some course on it or is it done through a template?

I understand that a hell of a lot goes on behind the scene, but is it easy to pick up?

Thanks

[Hybr!d]

Basically i would get a script, much like vbulletin here, then edit the template to suit you, it's a hell of a lot cheaper and easier than building from nothing.

The script makers release all the updates and bug fixes and all you have to update is your skin really.

I taught myself everything and have only been doing this 3 years, i can code html, php, mysql loads and rarely need outside help, so if i can do it anyone can.

Just be prepared for it to take over your life and for it to take a lot of time if you want to be a success. Just like an offline business it isn't easy and isn't for everyone.

Oh, and building the site is the easy bit, getting customers is where the tough work starts in my opinion.

Hope this helps.

[SocialWarfare]

Thanks Dave, I was thinking to get people to sell goods on the internet I will need to advertise off....I have a friend who has just finished a business/marketing degree so he will come in handy lol

[Hybr!d]

This the sort of thing your after, open source free shopping cart script.

There are loads of them and I haven't tried any, this is just an example mate.

http://www.opencart.com/

You trying to convince other people to sell online? Are you trying to make an auction site or a shopping site?

[SocialWarfare]

Yeah very similar to the above

I want to have a site that will allow the user to advertise for free and hopefully eventually let the business ads pay for it

I only want to do this as eBay fees are getting ridiculous recently, I would like it to kinda be a trading site were items can be traded or given away but also to be able to run auctions and allow offers/buyitnows and so on

[Hybr!d]

Personally a shop or free ads type thing like craigslist or gumtree is a better idea. I wouldn't start an auction site in a million years. Ebay have the market 1000000% sewn up.

[SocialWarfare]

Well not for it to solely be an auction site but so that people can place offers on items

If some wants 50bucks for an item, whoever sees the thread can place a bid of 40 or whatever and leave a comment so that the bid and comment would be displayed in forum format

[Hybr!d]

Give it a try mate, all you can really lose is your time.

If you need any help just ask.

[evilfantasy]

Just tossing out ideas...

I think you can do what you want with Windows Live Groups Or maybe look into a message board instead of a forum.

[SocialWarfare]

See sites like this
Is it possible to make it so people can join and post their own ads?