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Hello,

I'm looking at ways to create modules that allow a non-technical user to create content. I realise there are hundreds of 3rd party modules available, but what I mean is that I as the developer want to create custom forms for data entry with templates for presentation. The user updating the site, therefore doesn't have to worry about formatting which I have found quite tricky in the text editor without knowing html. 

The options I'm aware of for this so far are as follows:

1) Use an HTML module. But I found it very difficult to format the contents without knowing HTML. I'm using the default editor and it seems to get in a mess very easily, is there a better one I can install?

2) Xmod Pro. This product is great for quickly creating forms and templates. But seems to be quite limited in terms of programmability, I would prefer something that's a bit closer to asp.net. For example, it would be great to be able to code some server side validation. I haven't tried but I suppose this could be done in a Stored Procedure. If using a CLR based stored procedure, this could be done in C#. JQuery could be used to provide some client side validation.

3) DataSpring's Dynamic Views - I haven't use this, but as far as I'm aware you can write code in a stored procedure and return pieces of html, personally I prefer the template approach. Again, JQuery could be used to provide some client side validation.

4) Write a module from scratch. Obviously you'd have complete flexibility but there'd be a lot more work. Are there any 'kits' that allow you to create modules quickly?

It a very basic requirement of a CMS for non technical users to be able to add, edit and delete content. I'm surprised the options are so few, but hopefully I've missed something.

By the way, I'm currently using DNN 6.2, but intend to upgrade to v7.x very soon.

Best Regards,

Steve

Hi Aderson,

Thankyou for your reply.

From your reply:
>> I'm slightly confused as to what ind of module you want to create.

I'm sorry if I wasn't clear. I would just like to create modules that allow users to create great content easily. i.e. Enter data and images via a form and present it neatly formatted on a page. But content that can be structured as required , for example: Title, Summary, Description, Image1, Image2, Multi-column list, etc.   So in other words, I would define the data/images as required and create a template or even multiple templates. The end user simply completes a form to make changes.

The html module gives the most flexibility and isn't really a form as such but I've only mentioned it as it is an option that requires no upfront configuration. XMod Pro and Dynamic Views/Forms are the best thing I've found, though I haven't used Dynamic Views. These are great products but I just wondered if there are any other similar but more powerful options other than creating a DNN module from scratch. I assume from your answer that there isn't.

Best Regards,

Steve

Hi Aderson,

OK. That's good to know, just want to check I'm not missing something.

That's a good approach too.

Regards,

Steve