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"I've been looking for a program to __________________. Any idea where I can find something like that?" When I receive those questions, I usually recommend one or several script download sites. It is a question that can benefit from an answer with more depth than I am able to provide in a quick email response. Thus, this article. Before you begin your search on the web, take time to record what exactly you need your program to do. Here are some questions that may pertain to your program:
Be as clear as you can about what the program will do what it will have to work with. This list will be a valuable reference during your research. Now, where can you find the program? I am (naturally) biased toward our own Master Series of CGI scripts at http://willmaster.com/a/10/pl.pl?cgi (If you don't find what you need in our Master Series, drop us a note. We always have several new programs in the development cycle. What you're looking for might be what we're developing.) One of the most obvious places to look for what you want is in CGI directory/download sites with categorized lists of available scripts. Many of these also have intra-site search engines which can be used to search for probable words and phrases in program listing descriptions. If you find programs similar to what you're looking for but don't quite fit the bill, make a note of the program and the URL where you found it. Later, if you don't find exactly what you want, this list can be useful. Here are the two CGI directory/download sites I enjoy most. Each has indexed programs from numerous programmers and web sites. Although both have similar categories, one has titles the other doesn't. Each site has its own unique features, so you'll want to visit both.
If you haven't found exactly what you want, the next step is to find likely scripts that aren't listed in the above CGI directory/download sites. Make a list of words and phrases probably used in a description of the type of program you are looking for. At your favorite search engines, search for the items on the list. As before, note the program and URL whenever you find a program similar to what you want. If you still don't find exactly what you're looking for, you can do any of the following:
Depending on how exact your requirements are, a compromise might work for you and will likely be the least expensive of the three options in both time and funds. Modifying an existing, similar program might be less expensive than creating a custom program -- so long as the program is modified by the original author(s). If modified by someone other than the original authors, much time and care may need to be taken to reduce the likelihood of introducing a bug. Programmer's time can be expensive. Before hiring a programmer to modify a script or write a custom program, consider buying and reading my ebook "How to Hire a CGI Programmer" from http://willmaster.com/a/10/pl.pl?pie2 The ebook has information about cost factors you might not otherwise consider before making a commitment. It can also provide an understanding of how to approach programmers for better comprehension of your needs. There is also a section on where to find programmers. One of the important aids we at willmaster.com use to understand customer needs is a comprehensive specifications page. The list of features you developed at the beginning of your search can be the basis of this page. It is good practice to have the specifications recorded somewhere as an understanding of what will be created. There are many opportunities for misunderstanding, especially if (i) specifications are developed over a series of emails that contain indecisiveness and changes of mind or if (ii) specifications are developed over the telephone without adequate notes. Finding the perfect program for your web site's needs can be as easy as stopping by the Master Series of CGI programs and picking up your free copy of Master Feedback. Or, it can be as challenging as requesting bids from one or more professional programmers. It is rare that I receive a request for something impossible to program. If you can think it, it can probably be done. We wish you well in your research. Copyright 2001 William Bontrager
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