Other Serious Tech question for programmers

[Weber guy]

I'm in the process of having a new website built, and there is a lot to learn before selecting the developer. I have narrowed down the search to (2) potential companies. I'm looking for a high-end site with full e-commerce capabilities. Here's the primary question; Designer #1 uses Magento as a platform and is written in PHP code. Designer #2 uses a different platform and uses ASP.NET to write the code. I see most websites in our industry are written in PHP, but the ASP guy claims his method is better and more effective. I have done some research, and both codes seem to be effective, but I don't want to be stuck with some obscure code that only the developer can understand or change. If I switch to another designer later, I don't want to pay thousands of dollars again to re-write the code. Which code do you feel is best for my application and why? Is all PHP & ASP.NET code universal, or can each designer put his own "twist" into the code that only he understands? This is waaaay over my head, so any advice is appreciated. Thank you!

 

[IS0LD0UT]

Both will do the job. ASP.NET in my opinion is much more advanced than PHP.
I would suggest looking for a platform / content management system that will meet all your needs pretty much out of the box. Have a look at DotNetNuke http://www.dnnsoftware.com/ they have a free community edition and also there are hosts that host and set it up for you. With a CMS, you can make all the changes to content yourself.

 

[Weber guy]

Thanks for your information and suggestions. I looked at DotNetNuke, but I'm clueless, and my current web developer isn't familiar with it. I'm trying to find something he is familiar with (or a new developer); He is suggesting Pinnacle or Wordpress as he is experienced with them. I like the idea of Wordpress as I would own my site like DotNetNuke (open source) instead of owning the data and not the framework as some web platforms are configured. I have also researched Magento, but my developer isn't familiar with it either.As you mentioned; the ability to edit text and pricing is important. Any suggestions and ideas are appreciated.

 

[IS0LD0UT]

Wordpress, I think is very similar. DNN has a community edition where you get all the source, so you can make modifications as needed.
Feel free to PM me your number and we can chat a bit.

 

[Weber guy]

Hey Isoldout, I have PM turned off.. sorry. Can you contact me directly at weber@weberpower dot com? If you have time I would like your opinion on a few things.