Large project help

[kingpin393]

Hello,

 

I have been using PHP for a few years now and have a sound understanding of making small scripts used for simple functionality such as database access. These have all been little scripts on static sites. I have a project now to create a large dynamic database driven site and I am researching ways to do this the most efficient way. I understand the best way to do this is to separate logic, content, and presentation.

 

I use Zend Studio for my IDE and have been looking at the available frameworks out there such as ZF and Cake but I am finding them to be beyond my scope of understanding with PHP. I would really like to avoid using a 'pre-packaged' framework (at least until I have a good understanding of how it works - I don't like to use a system I don't understand).

 

My plan is to create my own back-end architecture that is portable first (so I can use it for other future projects).

 

One book I have looked at is called 'Professional PHP' - it seems to have an entire section dedicated to creating your own framework.

 

I wonder if anyone can give me any suggestions such as books, articles, or just advice.

 

Thanks,

Kevin

[keeB]

That's one approach, but if your experience is limited:

1) Why did you take on such a complex task, or

2) Why don't you take the time to research an existing framework and build from there?

 

Chances are if you don't understand some of the concepts in these frameworks, developing your own, while educational, will result in a huge waste of time.

 

Without really understanding what a 'large, dynamic' website means to you, we cannot really provide you with an accurate direction.

 

Writing a blog would be fairly trivial for anyone with basic knowledge. Writing a CMS which lists products, categories, search.. not so much.

[kingpin393]

Thanks for your reply.

 

Thankfully the project is a personal one and there is no time constraints. 

 

I guess what I am saying is I want to eventually have the knowledge to take on a complex task.

 

By large, dynamic site I mean what you said, a CMS.

 

I am looking for some direction to jump into advanced PMP concepts that would lead to understanding the workings of a MVC framework.