How do I create a hidden dev site?

[fossen]

Let's say I want to do a drastic redesign of my CMPS Front Page (http://forums.operationsports.com/vBulletin/cmps_index.php). I'd really rather not work "live".

Would I need a second, separate installation of vB? Including a second database for the template editing? So that I do all my work in /vBulletin2/ .... then port? Or is there a simpler suggestion I'm not getting?

[jim6763nva]

Let's say I want to do a drastic redesign of my CMPS Front Page (http://forums.operationsports.com/vBulletin/cmps_index.php). I'd really rather not work "live".

Would I need a second, separate installation of vB? Including a second database for the template editing? So that I do all my work in /vBulletin2/ .... then port? Or is there a simpler suggestion I'm not getting?

I'd be interested in knowing more about this too.

[KW802]

All depends upon what types of changes you're talking about. If you're going to be changing any of the PHP code then I would recommend making a copy of everything into a second db to use as a test site. But if all you're talking about is template changes, then just make a new child copy of your existing style and then make your changes to the CMPS templates at the child level.

[jim6763nva]

Thanks for the insight into this. Will give that a shot.

Jim