Dear Matrix Powerusers,
Is there a good way to update big Site?
I want to apply many changes - there will be a whole new Design (with some areas that don't even exist now), big content changes, moving existing assets, applying Paint Layouts… etc.
I'm looking for a best solution that will allow me to work on a new Site version and let me switch on the Site when I finish.
So how to do this in Matrix?
Linking?
I cannot link assets, because I'll make changes that would destroy a good look of my old Design.
Cloning?
When cloning Assets - many connected (underlying) Assets didn't clone at all (as I remember I was never sure if "clone" is good).
Any ideas?
If you were set on not creating a new site within your existing installation, a convenient way to do this would be to create an additional copy of your matrix system. Your original copy would still be the one serving your website, while the second copy you could change to your hearts content. Then when you are ready simply change some server configuration to the 'development' version you have been working on. As a client this could impact on any SLA you might have, so it's best to ask your account manager before making any changes like this.
Keeping the same install, as we have done with some clients, you may be better off creating a new site asset and copy/paste with new assets.
Hey
If you are doing this over the top of existing, try applying a new user defined design via the settings screen of the site and play with http://manuals.matrix.squiz.net/designs/chapters/using-alternate-designs to view your existing site in its new design, then when all is good you can just switch the front end design over. Two way to use that query, either set by session or just by current page view.
Also see: http://manuals.matrix.squiz.net/designs/chapters/using-alternate-designs