Shape 5

Guys I have just downloaded and installed the Gamers template and to my shock horror there is ample setting up to do, most of it is all blank with sample pics and text not an easy task for a novice, pretty disappointed actually. Anyway, I need to get my grubby hands on a forum for this template, I have had a look at the extensions and unless I am blind there isnt one.

Has anyone got a "easy to setup" forum extension that you could point in my direction

I have been with Shape5 on and off for about  5 years now. Wow! has it really been that long?

As far as the sample data for the template+ joomla, it is there to give you an idea of what you can  do, what modules and positions you have, etc. It is not meant to build your site + content (images and articles) for you. Though if you are new, I recommend starting with the quick start, as it can be great to give you ideas of where to put some content. I still use the SiteShapers often to help me get an idea if I am lost. It is a great tool when working with a test url and/or a new site.

The SiteShaper is there to allow you a quick instal of both Joomla and the template with all sample data. Though there is an option during installation to not add sample data.

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For a forum, you have a few options: Integrated component, such as Kunena (most popular for simple sites) or a separate forum.

 I recommend and use phpBB3, along with Blogo's (AlterBrains) extension, p8pbb Bridge. I have also never had a conflict with any template, template club, template framework or component/module/plugin for Joomla yet to date. Best of all, it works great with Shape5/Vertex templates just using one of the default jprosilver or jsubsilver templates Blogo gives you, or can use a customized template with a little html work to overall header and footer.

It is a paid subscription, though with the support, it is more than worth it! Blogo or one of his developers is always more than ready to fix the problem for you.

Unlike other bridges there are No hacks needed to core joomla or phpbb3. Again, the support is more than excellent. Not to mention, it is usually really easy to set up.

I use and recommend Joomla+phppBB3 forum + p8pbb Bridge.

p8pBB Bridge: http://alterbrains.com/joomla-extensions/communication/p8pbb-bridge-light
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All Forum Bridges: http://extensions.joomla.org/extensions/communication/forum-bridges

Joomla Component Forums: http://extensions.joomla.org/extensions/communication/forum
Out of that list, I must say Kunena is one of the best and also free.


Difference between an integrated forum and a separate forum with the bridge:
Joomla Component bridge: Uses the same database (great for smaller/simple sites with less traffic.)
phpBB3 w/ phpbb3 bridge:  Can use a separate OR same database (separate db is great for larger sites or with a lot of traffic.)

I hope that helps,
Sarrene'

Thanks for the reply sarrene, I am working through my site, slowly... and I must say I'm happy the way it looks...professional!

Hello,

Thanks for the information Sarrene. If you have any further questions please let us know!

-Mike