The Fiercest Open Source Software
In trying to provide as much value to my clients, I have a pretty good handle on a lot of different open-source software’s. Most are pretty intuitive and easy to get along with.
Now, you can get into trouble with any software, however, I’m not talking about that. I’m just saying that most are pretty straight forward for the most part.
Some can get pretty intense, but after a brief learning curve you’re good to go. I’m also not talking about the obscure either, where you are looking for intensity. I’m talking about good install instructions, MySQL, clean PHP, and nice looking interface and good functionality with a small footprint.
However, when you talk about main-stream, open-source, intensities; you are talking “Wiki Media”. God’s Teeth; that’s some intense stuff. I’ve been working with Wiki Media for about a couple of years and I think I’m going to go with the thought of “I’ve had enough and I’m throwing in the towel”!
Man, this thing is so intense that it puts any Linux OS to shame from the standpoint of structure and it’s a wonder that the thing works at all!
The developers guide is nearly 250 pages for goodness sake. And as far as a learning curve; well …… it looks like “Kingda Ka’s Tower”.
The software works great, however if you are on a shared server, look out!. To run this thing effectively, you really need a dedicated resource. Once you have wheels, the software works great! And you can “Skin” the thing anyway you want.
I’ll have to admit that I am far from being considered an expert with this software. Reason being; is that the thing is so cumbersome to work with, it’s hard to get a foot up.
Having a Wiki is pretty cool, you’ll have to admit. I like to integrate them into a clients company Blog whenever I have a chance. However, when it comes to all the baggage that comes with this software, it’s better left to someone who has a lot of time and who wants to run a dedicated Wiki, for whatever purpose.
As a standalone prospect, I think it’s still pretty intense and I’m not sure why it is that you have to do so much heavy lifting, for to get it to work. I do know this; after all the fighting is done, my sites look too cool! However, in the final analysis, I can’t justify the cost …… in the time that it takes, to work with this free open-source software. It’s kinda like “Photoshop”; it’s really cool software if you don’t drown in it while trying to use it. “What a shame! 
