I have a potential client that is in need of something I've never done, or even would know how to begin...I'm hoping someone can point me in the right direction, as I am more of a web designer than a developer.

He has some software that he says will be used to create duplicates of his website. For instance, what he wants is a main company website. He then would like clients to be able to login to that site, where they could download a copy of the site, but be able to add their logo and info as a distributor or subsidiary. So if he has www.abc.com they could download a copy of that site's template and their site's url would be something like www.abc.com/xyz

I can design the main site, but beyond that, I have no clue as to how to integrate this type of software. Should this be fairly simple, or I am in more of a position where I should sub it out to a developer?

Thanks!

You know it almost sounds like you're basically taking the template of the original site and then adding the unique logo/information of the person downloading the template.

If this is the case you could probably do this part very easily by making key images generically named, and easy to replace (ie: The header img).

If the client wants the domain to be automatically generated, I would recommend you subcontract out to a PHP or other code specialist. If the client will only have a smaller number of these sites, and can manage them on his own you should be able to just write instructions to make a directory on the server for each duplicate.

If you're still lost, or if I'm missing your question please let me know! Otherwise, good luck.

Best way is to use a database to point to images and texts etc. for the cloned site.
This site makes extensive use of such a system.

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Thanks for the advise. Yes, Wumbus, your first sentence is exactly what I'm talking about! I believe the client wants the domains to be automatically generated, so I think you're right, I'll need to find a PHP or code specialist. Do you have anyone you could recommend or maybe point me in the direction of a good freelancer site?

Melissa, I may be able to help you out. Send me the details at contact@cazzu.com and we can work through it.

The good news is that i know what are you talking about and you should not reinvent the wheel as it needs tons of programming you have to do while software for this already exists .There are many in the market and they are known as mall softwares.I have been trying to find one for myself in the past and the one which is very close to your needs is at http://www.systemsmanager.net.

Thanks eprogramer.net, I'll take a look at that site. The client did say that he already has the software...but taking a look at another and what it offers may help me to understand how to implement it.