Converting PHP-NUKE to phpBB3
Many users use PHP-NUKE as an all-in one solution for managing a portal. There are many drawbacks from running such a website and using phpBB3 as a base for a new one is a very good option. I am going to talk about the main negatives of PHP-NUKE and how to use phpBB as an equal and better replacement.
Why did you choose PHP-NUKE and why it's not a good option
PHP-NUKE looks nice at first glance. It has every kind of module you could think of, a fairly large community and is quite easily extensible. I see two main drawbacks of the solution. The first is the codebase - it is very messy, insecure and hardly maintainable. Coding for PHP-NUKE usually leads to an awful coding style, which can produce performance and security problems. The other is the user-friendliness of the interface. You will set up a monolithic portal which will rarely serve the users well.
Instead of adding 20+ gadgets on your homepage, think about what your users really use and what could make them a more stable and frequent visitor of your site. Think about the websites you know, Facebook, MySpace and others. Do they have a Top Posters box on the front page? Do they show a random user? Do they show your users statistics? Nobody is interested in that.
The phpBB2 installation in PHP-NUKE is way out-of-date and isn't compatible with many MODs. You will either have to rely on unsupported ports or know how to code yourself.
How to prepare yourself for the new system
First of all, brainstorm the new apperance of your new site. Either find a free phpBB3 template and think how to make it customized for your board or order a new one, it really is worth it. Then think of the features your users would like. Build all of them on top of the phpBB3 sessions system and integrate them into the board. It will assure your website will be secure and optimized for performance.
The phpBB teams prepared a really intuitive guide how to create custom pages in phpBB. It's easy to understand even for beginner programmers. I suggest you look at it. Same as a custom page, more complex site features can be added. Sometimes the work will be already done by a MOD, which can be downloaded at phpBB.com.
How to make a conversion
First, set up a clean phpBB3 board and add the style and feature changes you want on the new site.
I have created a convertor, that will transfer all your board and user data to a clean phpBB3 installation. Unfortunately, there is no way to transfer data like downloads or galleries and such. If you think your content is worth it, try sending me a message and I see what can be done.
Running the conversion takes about 20 minutes to set up. Then the converter will do its work, which can range from ten minutes to 10+ hours depending on your board size. During this time, your previous board will have to be closed since data must be consistent.
Finishing up
Now that you have imported your old users and posts into your new website, you can start a new era of your online community. Even though you might hear some negative responses from old users, believe me that your site will attract much more visitors and will keep them active on your board, providing a basis for yet a larger community.