DMLCo

Sites Powered By DMLContent

Thu, 04 Jan 2007 12:10:33 CST

Here is some information about sites currently enjoying the advantages of DMLContent. In addition to these, please take some time to look at
HIP Brick & Tile, our DMLContent demo site.

We are pleased to announce the launch of our three newest DMLContent sites, The WITS Meeting House, TR Moore & Co. and Cordua Restaurants.

Additionally, all of the sites available to the right under Related Links are powered by DMLContent.

The Society for American Baseball Research (SABR)

http://www.sabr.org/

DMLCo has been providing web and data consulting services to SABR and SABR-related entities since 1998. Currently powered by DMLContent, the SABR website presented a unique set of challenges, including needs for

A structure that would allow members themselves to create and add data to the website.

A web-based system to handle all facets of running an organization with nearly 8,000 active members, from committee and regional membership to membership renewals to handling the sophisticated nature of member data (multiple addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, etc.).

A sophisticated system architecture that would accommodate the seamless integration of custom development for various data-centric research projects into a standard content engine for more traditional information and presentation.

Pushing management and administration of the site out to the committees and chapters and (ultimately) the members themselves, while retaining the ability of the central office to step in at any point in the process.

A Members-Only site where information could securely be distributed to SABR members.

DMLContent proved an ideal match, allowing the site to grow in previously unexpected ways in response to the type of content submitted by members. The open, predictable architecture of DMLContent allows the CMS to integrate fully with non-CMS modules, providing a seamless end user experience.

Additionally, DMLCo worked with SABR's management office and Board of Directors to create an Administrative site that addresses the management needs.

Finally, a private site was created, where content could be driven by the same CMS engine that controls www.sabr.org.

DMLCo

http://www.dmlco.com/

We believe in using the tools we make. (Microsoft calls this eating your own dog food. We prefer to call it taking advantage of a best of breed product.)

This site--in it's entirety--was created within DMLContent. Everything you see here is possible on your own site. And, remember, DMLContent is an engine: it can run under ANY graphic look and feel.

Client List

Fri, 21 Jul 2006 23:28:26 CST

This is a partial list of the organizations we have worked with over the years. Links in the list below lead to sites created by DMLCo, with bold links highlightings sites created most recently. Please contact us to explore how we may be able to assist you.

More detail on our work is available as well: we have divided samples of our work into three categories: sites powered by DMLContent, other web development, and hobby sites.

Acumen Design
All-Terrain Consulting
Avenue Community Development Corporation
The Baseball Index
Bordelon-Noddler Design Associates
Bow Steel of Texas
Dr. Brene Brown
Capstone Solutions
Catechis, Campbell & Associates
The Center for Houston's Future
Chase Morgan Stanley
Children @ Risk
Coastal Corporation
Community 2022 *
Conceptual Specialties
Continental Airlines
Cordua Restaurants
DACG
Delphi Marketing
Dirk Knemeyer
The Dudley Observatory
Entelligence, LLC
Fellers Advertising
Global Financial Services
The Greater East End Managment District
Greka Energy
The Group for Cultural Documentation
Headset Experts
Immunostat
Intekrity
John M. Floyd & Associates
Jones McClure PublishingMagellan International
Marathon Oil
The Midtown Management District / Midtown Redevelopment Authority
MindStretch
My3DM Marketing
Online Home Plans
Perry's Restaurants
Planners Services Group
Pennzoil
PurseStories
Religious Studies Department, Rice University
Richardson Barr
Schechter, McElwee & Shaffer
Shell Oil Company
The Society for American Baseball Research
Solution Mining Research Institute
Squidz Ink Design
The Tejas Breakfast Club *
Texaco
T.R. Moore & Company
Web Devices, USA
WOMAN, Inc.
World Community for Christian Meditation
The WITS Meeting House
Writers in the Schools

* These are members-only sites.

Hello! We're DMLCo.

Fri, 21 Jul 2006 23:22:31 CST

We provide web development, content management, e-commerce, and consulting solutions to companies of all sizes, in Houston and internationally.

Our focus is on your unique business situation. On doing things right the first time. And on building a mutually rewarding, long term consulting relationship with you and your team.

Learn more about our flagship Content Management product, DMLContent.

DMLCo: Solving the Challenges Where People & Technology Meet.

Daniel M. Levine

Thu, 07 Jul 2005 17:57:07 CST

Hi, my name is Daniel Levine, founder and President of The Daniel M. Levine Company.

I have been working with computers since I got a VIC-20 in 1981. Moving up to a Commodore 64 was a big deal. I have been in the computer technology field most of my professional life, from running a computer lab during college, to years spent in the Computer Training field, to working as an independent Microsoft Certified Trainer, to DMLCo. I find this work interesting and invigorating, and see it as a life's passion.

DMLCo was founded in 1996, as a full service consulting firm, offering both development services and network support services. Since then, we have narrowed our focus to web development, and, specifically, database centered web development.

When the Web first started to explode, I already had some years working in this business under my belt. It was a fun and exciting time; heck, it still is. Increasingly, though, it is also a confusing time for consumers and businesses looking to take advantage of the new medium. We've always taken pride in being able to cut through that confusion, and would like to take some time to let you know who we are and how we do things.

There are a few things that guide us at DMLCo, reflecting our focus on real business success.

First, we believe that the New Economy is the same as the Old Economy, but with better stuff. What matters is how much value you can deliver, how much your word is worth, and how well you treat your clients. Period.

Second, standards matter. As the Internet expands, the ratio of good Internet work to shoddy work slides towards the bad part of the scale. We do things right, and we take the time to enforce standards on all that we do.

Third, while it is clear that it is very difficult for huge businesses to make money online, it is equally clear that small-to-mid sized businesses are faced with wonderful opportunities to expand their client base and leverage the power of the Internet.

I hold DMLCo to high standards: it's my name on the door, and everything we do as a company is, ultimately, my responsibility. I've been in this business long enough to know the danger of doing things the fast and easy way or becoming too complacent. As such, we are always pushing internally to learn new skills and to broaden our expertise. That commitment to quality and following the developments within the available technology is part of what makes this work so exciting, and allows us to offer quality products and services to our clients.

Thanks for looking at what I have to say, and feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns. Or, drop me an email directly at Daniel@DMLCo.com.

Our Clients

Fri, 18 Mar 2005 14:07:49 CST

This is the most important page in our site.

Because, without our clients, we don't exist. It's as simple as that, yet we find too many technology companies forget this basic truth.

Here are some samples of our publicly accessible work. And a list of organizations with whom we've been privileged to work.

DMLContent

Mon, 13 Dec 2004 13:06:42 CST

DMLContent
Content Management is Complicated. It Doesn't Have to be Difficult.

DMLCo is thrilled to present DMLContent, our flagship product.

DMLContent is a Content Management System aimed at allowing small and mid-sized organizations to easily control content-rich, sophisticated web sites. It is designed to bring high-end CMS functionality to customers looking for a cost-effective, easy to use solution.

Sounds good, but does it work?

You bet. Check out some sites running DMLContent, including our demo site. And the list of benefits. And the online support. This is real software, not vapor-ware aimed at delivery next quarter.

All that, and a fair price to boot.

A marketing flier for DMLContent is available under the links on the right.

Currently DMLContent is available as an integral part of DMLCo's web development & consulting services.

We anticipate having the product ready for stand-alone sales in early 2004. At that point, you will be able to purchase the product, download it, and install it on the servers and web hosting provider of your choice.

At the same time, we will be introducing a sister product, DMLContent Personal, which will be a scaled-down version of the software aimed at individuals and small organizations looking for more limited, blog-like capabilities. DMLContent Personal will only be available as a hosted solution, through DMLCo's hosting services.

Contact Us

Tue, 27 Jul 2004 18:46:27 CST

We?d love to hear from you.

If you would like more information on DMLCo, please feel contact us using the information below, or fill out the following form.

DMLCo
1534 Harold Street
Houston, TX 77006

713.861.6557
713.861.6554 [fax]

solutions@DMLCo.com

Buy Now

Wed, 04 Feb 2004 16:26:31 CST

DMLContent is available in several combinations. Please contact us with any questions as to which is right for you.

Software
DMLContent With Hosting	Includes one license for DMLContent, three months free hosting, and product support. Online Purchase Available Q1, 2004.	$599	BUY!
Software Only	Includes one license for DMLContent and product support. Online Purchase Available Q1, 2004.	$529	�
DMLContent Hosting
Quarterly Web Hosting	Hosting pre-billed each quarter.	$149	�

Additionally, if you want DMLCo to take you from concept to fully functional website, just contact us, and we'll be happy to provide a custom quote, including graphic design and production.

Most DMLContent sites can be produced, end to end, for under $10,000, and often as much as half that, depending on the specific customizations and graphics involved.

Are you a non-profit? If so, contact us for information about our discounted rates for 501(c)(3) organizations.

Who's Behind the Curtain?

Wed, 28 Jan 2004 18:55:40 CST

Learn about who we are and what defines and drives our company.

To succeed in this business, technology has to be a given. And don't get us wrong: we are proud of our technology and capabilities. But we are people, first and foremost. We listen. We help. We work with you. It's more than code and software.

It's about how you do as much as what you do.

DMLContent Commercial License Agreement

Fri, 21 Nov 2003 16:06:35 CST

Subject to the terms and conditions set out here, this license entitles the licensee to use and maintain a single installation of DMLContent. By downloading DMLContent from the internet, or if otherwise acquired, by installing DMLContent on a computer or server, licensee irrevocably agrees to be bound by the terms and conditions of this license.

licensee	The licensee is any purchaser that acquires DMLContent directly from The Daniel M. Levine Company (DMLCo), whether by download from the DMLCo website (which term includes any successor technology for public internet access) or in other computer sensible form. Licensee also includes a single successor or assign of the original purchaser if, and only if, DMLCo is provided with the full legal name, mailing address, email address and telephone number of any such single successor or assign within 30 days after the date such successor or assign first purports to succeed to the rights and obligations of this license (by use of DMLContent or otherwise).
DMLContent	DMLContent is a collection of computer software files of various types that, when installed, configured, and accessed correctly on a compatible internet server (described below), combine to form a website content management system with a defined set of operational features. DMLContent will, when used correctly, allow the creation, editing, and display of a limited variety of information on a website when accessed via standard internet protocols. Over time, the collection of files producing the original set of operating features in the version of DMLContent purchased by the licensee (or its permitted predecessor or assignor) may be modified by DMLCo (but DMLCo will have no obligation to make such modifications).� In these cases, instructions on updating installations on a production server will be provided on the DMLCo web site. The collection of files defining one set of operational features and constituting the version of DMLContent provided under this license shall be identified from time to time by reference to the historical archive of successive updates stored on the DMLCo web site. The creation by DMLCo of a website content management system with new, improved, or additional features will constitute a successor version of DMLContent, and this license will give licensee no rights or privileges with respect thereto. DMLContent is separated into code files and custom files.� The custom files are those files intended by DMLCo within the original or modified system architecture for manipulation by the licensee to control the display content of the licensee's website. All other files are code files.
single installation	A single installation consists of the installation (and, if required, re-installation) of DMLContent on one (and only one) production server and, optionally, on a second development or testing server used solely to input data to and manipulate custom files of DMLContent for ultimate (and sole) display and use on the dedicated production server. All servers must be physically located within the United States or Puerto Rico.
compatible server	The full utility of DMLContent is by design available on the production servers maintained by DMLCo (or servers with substantially the same features and operating system) . Installation of DMLContent on other servers may result in loss of certain design features.
limited use	This license gives the licensee the non-exclusive, non-transferable right to install DMLContent and manipulate the custom files therein as herein specified. All other installations, uses, modifications, transfers, extractions or adaptations are strictly prohibited. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, in no event may the licensee: in any way interfere with, or fail to enable, the automatic reporting features of DMLContent that transmits data to DMLCo, decrypt, reverse engineer, interfere with, or disable any of the encrypted code files, or attempt any such action, transfer or grant any interest in (including any security interest or lien) or rights to (including any sub-license of) DMLContent, or remove or alter the copyright notices contained in the printed and electronic forms of DMLContent.
third party software	DMLContent incorporates certain software provided by third parties. This third-party software is identified on the DMLCo website. For purposes of this license, all such third-party software shall be considered code files and, as appropriate, encrypted code files. Licensee agrees to be bound by the terms of the respective licenses, if any, associated with such third-party software (the terms of which may also be found on the DMLCo website), and all such terms are incorporated as provisions of this license.
limited warranty	DMLCo represents and warrants only that DMLContent will operate with the intended design features of the version purchased when correctly installed and configured on a compatible server.� If it does not so operate when correctly installed and configured, DMLCo will, at its discretion, either make all modifications to DMLContent (other than third-party software) necessary to establish operation of the design features, or refund the �purchase price (without interest). This limited warranty shall be completely void if licensee has at any time breached any of the provisions of this license, accessed, manipulated, extracted, copied, or decrypted the code files in any manner, or attempted any such action, or altered, or attempted to alter, the intended function of the custom files in any manner.
disclaimer	Except as set forth expressly in the limited warranty, DMLCo makes no representation or warranty with respect to DMLContent, and licensee's remedies and damages for any and all loss resulting from its use of DMLContent shall be restricted as provided in the limited warranty. The following provisions are meant to comply with all laws applicable to the limitation of DMLCo's liability, and are printed in a separate font in order to make such provisions conspicuous: All express or implied representations and warranties, including, without limitation, any implied warranty of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or non-infringement, are hereby excluded. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, in no event shall DMLCo be liable for any damages or losses suffered by licensee as a result of its use of DMLContent, including, without limitation, any lost revenue, profit or data, loss of goodwill, work stoppage, computer failure or malfunction, security breach or loss of confidentiality or control, or any other damages or losses, including, without limitation, direct, indirect, special, consequential, incidental or punitive damages, however caused and regardless of the theory of recovery, including tort, contract, or strict liability.
non-competition	Licensee agrees that for a period of five (5) years, beginning on the date licensee first installs DMLContent, it shall not (directly or indirectly through ownership of, interest in, or agreement with a third party) create, develop, design, or distribute any website content management system based in any part on DMLContent or with any features substantially similar to DMLContent. This strict prohibition shall apply whether licensee's prohibited acts are for profit or not-for-profit.
essential provisions	The disclaimer of representations and warranties and non-competition clauses of this license constitute an indispensable part of this license, without which DMLCo would not provide DMLContent.
construction	This license shall be construed and governed by the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to the principles of conflicts of laws thereof. If any of the provisions of this license are held to be in violation of applicable law, void, or unenforceable in any jurisdiction, then such provisions shall be waived or amended to the extent necessary for the license to be otherwise enforceable in such jurisdiction. However, if in DMLCo's opinion deletion or amendment of any provisions of the license by operation of this paragraph unreasonably compromises the rights or increase the liabilities of DMLCo, then DMLCo may terminate this license without any liability to the licensee. Licensee acknowledges that its breach of any of the provisions of this license will cause DMLCo irreparable damage for which recovery of money damages would be inadequate, and that DMLCo will therefore be entitled to seek timely injunctive relief to protect its rights under this license in addition to any and all remedies available at law.
termination	This license shall terminate, without further action or notice required, if licensee breaches any material provision of this license. Licensee will be obligated to immediately destroy all copies of DMLContent in its possession upon termination of this license.

DMLContent Version Archive

Mon, 06 Oct 2003 13:04:18 CST

This page contains the archive history of DMLContent. As independently downloadable archives are created, they will be available for licensed clients, as will upgrade instructions for changes from sub-version to sub-version.

Should you require one of these downloads before they are available online, please contact us directly.

DMLContent Version Archive
Version	Date	Notes
1.5	10.06.03	MAJOR Upgrade. Adds Blog and Members Only functionality, as well as various bug fixes and enhancements. Changes to DB and Web Pages. Upgrade files available to registered users.
1.2	09.26.03	Incorporated all known bug fixes, both to web and database scripts. All templates updated. Admin Preview function added, incorporated Milonic V5RC11.
1.05	09.18.03	Adds Email This Page feature, various bug fixes.
1.0	09.08.03	Initial Release.

DMLCo Announces Debut of HIP Brick & Tile, A DMLContent Demo Site

Tue, 30 Sep 2003 09:05:58 CST

HOUSTON, TX (USA) -- DMLCo, a Houston technology consulting firm, in conjunction with graphic design partner Squidz Ink Design, announced the debut today of http://www.hipbrick.com/, a demonstration site for their flagship content management product, DMLContent.

"We're thrilled to see Hip Brick become a reality," says Daniel Levine, President and founder of DMLCo. "It delivers a very strong proof of concept for a product we believe will become the leader in the mid-size CMS market in the very near future."

HIP Brick & Tile displays DMLContent's proven ability to deliver online content in a variety of forms, serving as a flexible engine for virtually any website.

"We strongly believe the HIP Brick site demonstrates the product can deliver highly functional content management and do it with no sacrifice in visual design concept." adds Cole Schweikhardt, Principal and founder of Squidz Ink Design, Inc. "This is a capability will allow us to provide customers affordable websites that pack the power of branding and content control."

Based in Houston, Texas, Squidz Ink Design, Inc. provides creative services geared to generate brand awareness, credibility and sales for our clients through a unified, cross-media approach to business communication. We believe in the value of differentiating, challenging the mundane and risking being noticed. For more information, contact Cole Schweikhardt at (713) 868-2500 or getit@squidzink.com.

Support

Fri, 26 Sep 2003 10:06:54 CST

DMLContent
Content Management is Complicated. It Doesn't Have to be Difficult.

Don't worry: we're here to help with the complicated part, too.

First of all, you can always reach our support group at support@DMLContent.com. You can also submit a Support Request online.

And, during business hours (CST), you can reach us at 713.861.6557.

But you can also help yourself here: search this site for information, reference the documentation online, or look through our tips & tricks section to see if we might have a hint to get you moving in the right direction.

HIP Brick & Tile: A DMLContent Demo Site

Fri, 26 Sep 2003 10:06:43 CST

One of the most important features of DMLContent is it's flexibility. We think of it as an engine running under your site. As such, it can work with virtually any design requirements you can imagine.

Check out HIP Brick & Tile.

Both DMLCo and HIP Brick & Tile are powered by standard installations of DMLContent. But the feel of each site, the features used, the layout--virtually everything about them--is quite different.

Licensing, Legal Matters, & Version Archive

Thu, 25 Sep 2003 14:48:47 CST

This section will contain information about DMLContent's licensing and other legal matters, including the official version archive.

We have posted DMLContent's commercial license, as well as those of the accompanying third-party products. All licenses are available for download on their respective pages as well.

DMLContent hosting is governed by its own agreement, including our terms of service (TOS).

Clean HTML for Microsoft Office

Thu, 25 Sep 2003 13:36:11 CST

By default, Microsoft Office (up to, and including, Office 2000) saves a ton of additional information in its files when you use the SAVE AS HTML functionality. This is true in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, even when you save Access reports.

The problem is that, when you use this HTML in DMLContent, all the additional information just clutters up space, and can make it very difficult to really control the final output.

Luckily, Microsoft also provides a tool to remove the additional HTML code, and we have provided a link to it to the right.

Please Note: if you are running Office XP, you already have this functionality built-in. Just choose FILE ... SAVE AS ... FILTERED HTML. The HTML this creates is still a bit messier than we'd like, but it is a vast improvement.

soEditor 2.5 Lite Distribution License

Thu, 25 Sep 2003 13:32:27 CST

End-User Software License Agreement

IMPORTANT NOTICE - READ CAREFULLY: This is a legal agreement between you, the end user, (either an individual or an entity), and SiteObjects Inc. ("SiteObjects") for the software product soEditor Lite Redistributable ("Software"). This license ("License") contains rights and restrictions associated with use of the accompanying Software including, but not limited to, one or more of the following: source code, object code, dynamic link libraries, static libraries, classes, byte code, header files, utility programs, makefiles, images and scripts together with the accompanying documentation and examples. Read the License carefully before downloading, opening the zip file, installing or using the Software. By downloading, opening the zip file, installing or using the Software you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of this License. If you do not agree to the terms of this Agreement, do not download, open the zip file, install or use the Software.

The Software is protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties, as well as other intellectual property laws and treaties. The Software is licensed, not sold.

1. Limited License Grant. Subject to payment of any applicable license fees, SiteObjects grants to you ("Licensee") a non-exclusive, non-transferable limited license to use the Software. Except for the foregoing, Licensee may not re-distribute the Software in whole or in part, unless included with a single product. You may: install the Software on any single computer used for development purposes; install the Software on any single computer used for production purposes; modify the source code, provided the modified code must contain all of the original Software's proprietary notices; re-distribute the software as a part of a single product provided any re-distributed copy must contain all of the original Software's proprietary notices; copy the Software for archival purposes, provided any copy must contain all of the original Software's proprietary notices. All Additional copies of Software must be purchased directly from SiteObjects.

2. Restrictions. The Software is confidential copyrighted information of SiteObjects and title, ownership rights, and intellectual property rights in the Software and to all copies is retained by SiteObjects. The Software is protected by the copyright laws and treaties. Title and related rights in the content accessed through the Software is the property of the applicable content owner and may be protected by applicable law. This License gives you no rights to such content. You may not: install the Software on more than a single development computer; install the Software on more than a single production computer; create derivative works based on the Software; copy the Software other than as specified in Section 1 of this License; sell, rent, lease, grant a security interest in, or otherwise transfer rights to the Software; or alter or remove any proprietary notices or labels on the Software. Software may not be leased, assigned, or sublicensed, in whole or in part, except as specifically authorized in Section 1. Licensee warrants that it will not use or redistribute the Software for such purposes.

3. Trademarks and Logos. This License does not authorize Licensee to use any SiteObjects name, trademark, or logo without prior written permission. Licensee acknowledges that SiteObjects owns all related trademarks, logos and icons.

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5. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, IN NO EVENT SHALL SiteObjects OR ITS SUPPLIERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES SUFFERED BY LICENSEE OR ANY THIRD PARTY AS A RESULT OF USING OR DISTRIBUTING SOFTWARE. IN NO EVENT AND UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL SiteObjects OR ITS SUPPLIERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOST REVENUE, PROFIT OR DATA, OR FOR DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OR LOSS OF GOODWILL, WORK STOPPAGE, COMPUTER FAILURE OR MALFUNCTION, OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES, HOWEVER CAUSED AND REGARDLESS OF THE THEORY OF LIABILITY, TORT, CONTRACT, OR OTHERWISE, ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF, MISUSE OF OR INABILITY TO USE SOFTWARE, EVEN IF SiteObjects HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN SOME JURISDICTIONS THIS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU AND YOU MAY HAVE OTHER LEGAL RIGHTS THAT ARE BY JURISDICTION.

In no event will SiteObjects's liability to Licensee, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), or otherwise exceed the total price paid for the software or the annual Service Fee paid to SiteObjects by Licensee for the twelve (12) months preceding the event giving rise to the claim. No action, whether in contract or tort including but not limited to negligence, arising out of or in connection with this Agreement may be brought by either party more than eighteen (18) months after the cause of action has accrued.

6. Termination. Licensee may terminate this License at any time by destroying all copies of Software. This License will terminate immediately without notice from SiteObjects if Licensee fails to comply with any provision of this License. Upon such termination, Licensee must destroy all copies of Software.

7. Export Regulations. Software, including technical data, is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the U.S. Export Administration Act and its associated regulations, and may be subject to export or import regulations in other countries. Licensee agrees to comply strictly with all such regulations and acknowledges that it has the responsibility to obtain licenses to export, re-export, or import Software. Software may not be downloaded, or otherwise exported or re-exported (i) into, or to a national or resident of, Cuba, Iraq, Iran, North Korea, Libya, Sudan, Syria or any country to which the U.S. has embargoed goods; or (ii) to anyone on the U.S. Treasury Department's list of Specially Designated Nations or the U.S. Commerce Department's Table of Denial Orders.

8. Governing Law. Any action related to this License will be governed by Michigan law and controlling U.S. federal law. No choice of law rules of any jurisdiction will apply.

9. Severability. IF ANY OF THE ABOVE PROVISIONS ARE HELD TO BE IN VIOLATION OF APPLICABLE LAW, VOID, OR UNENFORCEABLE IN ANY JURISDICTION, THEN SUCH PROVISIONS ARE HEREWITH WAIVED OR AMENDED TO THE EXTENT NECESSARY FOR THE LICENSE TO BE OTHERWISE ENFORCEABLE IN SUCH JURISDICTION. HOWEVER, IF IN SiteObjects'S OPINION DELETION OR AMENDMENT OF ANY PROVISIONS OF THE LICENSE BY OPERATION OF THIS PARAGRAPH UNREASONABLY COMPROMISES THE RIGHTS OR INCREASE THE LIABILITIES OF SiteObjects, SiteObjects AUTOMATICALLY TERMINATES THE LICENSE WITHOUT ANY REMEDY TO THE LICENSEE. UPON SUCH TERMINATION, LICENSEE MUST DESTROY ALL COPIES OF THE SOFTWARE.

10. Breach of Agreement. It is understood and agreed that, notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, Licensee's breach of any of the provisions of this Agreement will cause SiteObjects irreparable damage for which recovery of money damages would be inadequate, and that SiteObjects will therefore be entitled to seek timely injunctive relief to protect SiteObjects's rights under this Agreement in addition to any and all remedies available at law.

11. Miscellaneous. This Agreement is the parties' entire agreement relating to its subject matter. It supersedes all prior or contemporaneous oral or written communications, proposals, conditions, representations and warranties and prevails over any conflicting or additional terms of any quote, order, acknowledgment, or other communication between the parties relating to its subject matter during the term of this Agreement. No modification to this Agreement will be binding, unless in writing and signed by an authorized representative of each party.

12. Should you have any questions concerning this Agreement, or if you desire to contact SiteObjects for any reason, please write: SiteObjects Inc., 3401 West Saginaw Street, Suite 201, Lansing, MI 48912 or e-mail: info@siteobjects.com.

Licenses for Other Software Bundled with DMLContent

Thu, 25 Sep 2003 13:32:11 CST

There are two third party software programs included with your purchase of DMLContent. The appropriate license for each is included here for your convenience.

Milonic DHTML Menu System

soEditor Lite

The Use of Equal Signs & Colons in Form Customization Files

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:17:18 CST

Remember, only form elements themselves use the colon in your Customization Files. All other form variables require the standard use of the equal sign.

So, it is

FORM_1: {form variables}

but it is

frmResponseText = Thank you!

Setting A Default Piece of Content to Display

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:17:07 CST

If you want your home page to be different than your standard Content Template, use the home.cfm template as discussed in the documentation.

However, what if you want a standard Content item to display on the home page, as we do on www.dmlco.com?

To do this, set three default parameters in your application.cfm file as follows:

<cfparam name="a" default="cms">
<cfparam name="cms" default="c">
<cfparam name="id" default="NUMBER">

where NUMBER is the Content ID of the desired default Content item.

Other Tips & Tricks

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:16:56 CST

This section contains Tips & Tricks on other parts of the system, from initial configuration to design.

HTML

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:16:45 CST

Contains tips & tricks on formatting your pages, including HTML techniques and hints on bringing third party HTML output into DMLContent.

Forms and Customization File Tips & Tricks

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:16:31 CST

This section contains tips & tricks for the use of Customization Files within DMLContent. This includes information on the creation of forms within the system, including the use of the JavaScript based form validation system.

Adding 1 Pixel Frames to Tables

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:16:11 CST

Here is an HTML pattern you can use to enclose any bit of content in an attractive, single pixel-outlined table. The styles used are built into DMLContent, so the look and feel will be consistent with the rest of your site.

The basic idea is to create a table with a single cell in it, set to the color of the outline. Fill that with an inner table with cellspacing="1". Then, as long as every cell in the table is filled with a style reference, you will get a smooth, attractive outline.

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
  <tr><td class="frameRow">
    <table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
      <tr><td class="textRow">Your text content would go here.</td></tr>
    </table>
  </td></tr>
</table>

Repeat the inner row as often as needed.

If you need a header row, just use the frameRow class, like this:

<tr><td class="frameRow"><b>COLUMN HEADING</b></td></tr>

Combining these could give us something like this:

Bilbo's Poem

All that is gold does note glitter.
Not all those who wander are lost.
The old that is strong does not wither.
Deep roots are not touched by the frost.

Tips And Tricks: Getting the Most out of DMLContent

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:15:59 CST

Welcome to the Tips & Tricks area!

Here you will find, organized by functionality, a variety of helpful information and hints about DMLContent. Our goal is to give you the information you need to get the very most out of the product: as such, we'll be adding all sorts of information here over time, from user suggestions to answers to frequently asked support questions to cool customizations.

If you have a favorite Tip or Trick, let us know about it!

Technology

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:10:47 CST

Active Server Pages. Oracle. MySQL. Cold Fusion. PHP. .Net. XML.

There are so many tools for Web development professionals to consider.

We don't use every technology. That's okay: some artists use watercolors, others use oils. Some sculpt in wood, some in stone. Any medium can produce masterpieces: the trick is to select the one best suited for the task at hand.

Our team continually evaluates the latest tools, incorporating into our repertoire those that meet our stringent requirements. These decisions are made with the objective of offering our clients the best overall solution for their unique needs.

Most importantly, we don't believe in projecting ourselves as experts, and then billing you for learning the product. Instead, a depth of expertise that allows truly scalable, stable applications is our mission and our guiding muse.

Oils or watercolors. PHP or ASP. Stone or Wood. SQL or Oracle. It is not the choice of materials, but the artistry and skill brought to bear.

Technical Features

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:10:18 CST

So, you're a technology person yourself, and want to know more about what DMLContent really has to offer?

Here it is.

Built upon easily learned, extensible architecture, DMLContent offers what you would put into a CMS if you wrote it yourself.

Flexibility. DMLContent doesn't impose any limitations on how you see your content. Through the use of Customization Files, any specific page or area in your site can have its own set of default settings controlling its appearance and functionality.

Your users can be find any digital media available through our downloadable files.

And, DMLContent supports an unlimited number of Authors--that is, many people can contribute content to your site, all within a sophisticated and flexible security framework, where different individuals only have access to the functions they need.

Power. DMLContent even tackles the hard stuff: for example, HTML or Cold Fusion files can be included within any area of your site as custom headers or footers. Or, with a little work to learn our own scripting syntax, you can create complex forms.

Heck, we even threw in some great image management tools, so your users don't have to bug you to shrink their images for web presentation.

Templates

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:09:58 CST

DMLContent comes with the following Templates, ready to use. Each Template has a slew (that's a lot) of options available that impact it's appearance and functionality. See the Technical Reference (available in Documentation) for detailed information about all options for each Template.

Default Template. Standard text display, no images. Most of this site uses this Template.

One Image Template. Text wrapped around a single image, with six options for image positioning.

Image Row Template. Text displayed above or below a row of images.

Photo Album Template. Displays an unlimited number of images, with several options controlling how thumbnails and full-sized images are presented.

Press Release Template. Standard Press Release, with contact information and default text.

Event Template. Displays upcoming Events, with many options controlling the display, order, and grouping.

Simple Form Template. Used in conjunction with Customization Files to create forms.

Multi-User Capabilities

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:09:49 CST

DMLContent is designed to support multi-level, team authoring environments. Its internal security model is sophisticated enough for most situations, and robust enough to easily accept your customizations if it doesn't meet your needs.

We have focused on a three-part division of labor in the system:

Authors are the frontline producers of content. When their job is done, they mark their piece as finished and it passes to the

Editors who have the ability to formally approve the content, at which point it appears on the live website.

Publishers exist at the top of the chain, and have access to all of the site's functionality.

This three-tiered division is enhanced by the concept of sections, which allow you to organize content into manageable divisions. Authors and Editors may only have access to certain sections, allowing a very granular control of who can access and change what content on the site.

Menus

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:09:38 CST

DMLContent supports a virtually unlimited combination of menu options.

First, we have a two-tier menu system. This allows the creation of standard dual level menus, like the one you see currently on the left hand of the page.

Then, we allow you to create an unlimited number of these two-tier menus, allowing full flexibility in how you handle secondary, tertiary, and other navigation needs.

On top of that, every DMLContent installation comes with a license for Milonic's DHTML Menu Tools (see their link on the right for more information). We automatically build a DHTML menu if your content structure requires it (in fact, you probably used that menu to get to this page). But you're not limited to that: you can use the Milonic toolset for anything you want within your DMLContent system.

So, for example, if you really like the feel of DHTML tools, you can do away with the two-tier menu system entirely, and run the whole site through a DHTML based tool.

Image Management

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:09:30 CST

DMLContent handles images through the concept of an Image Pool. That is, all of the images used in your site are stored together (don't worry: you can categorize each one, making it easy to find what you're looking for).

When you need to add an Image to a piece of Content, you can enter it by name, or you can use our ImagePicker to browse the Image Pool for what you want.

On the presentation side, all Templates that display images allow you to dynamically limit their height and/or width. This ensures that, if, for example, you have many Authors submitting content to your site, you aren't dependant on them to resize images correctly.

Even better, if your web server supports ImageMagick and Alagad's MagickTag, you can manipulate your images through the Administrative functions. This allows you to actually resize images directly on the web server: it's a great way to take standard digital output and shrink it down to a useful size.

Forms

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:09:20 CST

One of the biggest challenges in developing a CMS is creating a way that forms--both simple response forms and more complex surveys--can be created and maintained directly in the system.

We've arrived at what we think is a great solution.

Spending a little time learning our scripting syntax will allow you create both simple and complex forms, with the results being emailed to a specified address. All of the forms you see on this site (from contact us to support request) were created this way.

Now, that's pretty cool.

But there's more. For some of you, emailing the forms won't be enough. Instead, you want the user's information to be inserted into a database, and may even want to perform some custom processing based on that.

No problem.

Simply change over to Cold Fusion Customization Files, and you can create any Cold Fusion code you want to handle and process the form activities.

Downloadable Files

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:08:43 CST

DMLContent makes it easy to incorporate various digital files into your content, making them available for easy access by your users.

Any page in your site can have its own set of downloadable files. These files may be part of the search index--not just their descriptions, but the actual contents of the files themselves. This gives you the ability to deliver information directly to your users in a variety of formats.

DMLContent clients have used this functionality for everything from providing access to .PDF versions of marketing materials to building an online warehouse of information that is indexed and available for download.

For a simple example of this functionality, check out our Documentation section.

Customization Files

Fri, 19 Sep 2003 09:08:32 CST

It's all about control.

Each template in DMLContent has its own default settings that control its appearance and its behavior. And that works great, most of the time.

But you can also change those settings, either for an entire area of the site, or for a particular page. This is done by created Customization Files, which can be accomplished entirely through the administrative interface.

Essentially, you just enter the setting and it's new value in the file, and poof that piece of content is customized.

For example, look beneath this text: see the date down there? That's something we call a date footer and, by default on http://www.dmlco.com, we don't show them. But we created a Customization File for this piece of content--it took all of 30 seconds--and there it is.

One more piece of detail. Customization Files come in two kinds, plain text and Cold Fusion. The plain text kind are easier to create and manage, however, for the brave and knowledgeable out there, Cold Fusion Customization Files allow you to incorporate any Cold Fusion code you want on a page-by-page basis. Now that's control.

Search Functions

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

Taking advantage of Cold Fusions built-in Verity Search Indexing, DMLContent offers the ability to search any combination of data sources, from the contents of the CMS engine itself to document files placed on your server, even the contents of other, separate databases.

Links

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

Links can be designated to appear throughout your site, only within a specific area, or only on certain pages. Links are controlled through an intuitive, easy to use interface, allowing you to easily update them.

Events

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

In creating DMLContent, we tried to anticipate the types of information you were most likely to want on your website. Commonly, we found a desire to show meetings, classes, book signings, happy hours, or other scheduled Events.

So, we created a way for you to list these, without having to create--or, more importantly, maintain--complex HTML code.

Events can be sorted and grouped by a variety of options, and you can even create multiple categories of Events, isolating which types show up in different parts of your site.

And, of course, Events are part of the Search Index, increasing the overall effectiveness and integration of your site.

Current Documentation

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

DMLContent comes with three types of documentation:

Administrator's Guide. This is the core guide, containing step by step explanations of most of the functionality in the system. This is the first place to turn for help.

Technical Reference. Contains more advanced topics, including full documentation of every variable available in each Template.

Installation Guide. You should only need this document at the start of your project: it contains instructions on the installation and configuration of the database and website.

The documentation is currently in a final editing stage. Once complete, you will be able to download each of the three files as PDF files from the links to the right. Additionally, there will be a single zip file containing all three files.

In the meantime, if you would like a copy of the documentation in its current draft form, just contact us and we'll be happy to send it to you via email.

Someone suggested once that we should cut back on our documentation, that having close to 200 pages of reference material was a draw-back, and that our clients would see the product as too complex.

We give you more credit than that and, instead, believe that our commitment to producing high-quality, flexible products will shine through.

Partners

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

One of the reasons we service our clients so well is through partnerships with folks who do some things better than we do. Professional graphic artists. Dedicated hardware providers.

Our partners, in general, fall into one of two categories: they either provide services that complement our offerings, or they are software developers who have developed a best-of-breed tool that we have extensive experience in customizing and integrating into our applications.

But you probably won't even realize we're using an outside partner. Because their work is high-quality, they get it done on time, and they run with tight budgets. Just like we do.

Partners: Profiles

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

We invest a lot in teaming with partners who can best help us provide value to our clients. Working with the right people and companies is vital, because we take full responsibility and accountability for everything produced for our clients through DMLCo. That includes everything our partners work on, as well.

Lots of people talk partnership: we live and breathe it. We are in constant communication with or partners, continually working with them to make our interactions even more seamless and effective for our mutual clients.

You might not even realize they're working for you, but you want to know who our partners are. We adopt a strict Best of Breed approach and foster partnerships with companies that will provide only high quality results. Learn a little about our team of partners.

Networking, Hardware, & Systems Consulting: Lighthouse Consultants

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

Lighthouse Consulting provides networking solutions and technology consulting from hardware and components to the complex project architecture and implementation. DMLCo has used Lighthouse as our primary source of hardware for internal use and for our clients for years. We have a long standing history of partnering together to insure that our clients receive high quality hardware, network services, and web development solutions.

Graphic Design: Squidz Ink

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

Squidz Ink Design provides graphic design and web services ranging from identity packages to Flash animation. We have worked with Squidz Ink Design for over four years on a wide range of projects, from the creation of our own logo and marketing collateral to creating a look and feel for virtually all of our client's Web sites.

We have always been thrilled with the quality of work they have produced, and have been especially impressed with their ability to bring to life the image the client was trying to convey. In addition to creative work, SID has developed a special niche in web development--bringing together the creative & technical sides of Web site production. SID performs this function not only for in-house projects but also for third party creative and / or development firms.

This has been an especially fruitful partnership: often, the design team and the technical team are pulling in different directions. In our case, we find that, instead, we are constantly working together towards your common goal.

Technical Training: MindStretch

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

MindStretch is known for their innovative approach to training. DMLCo and MindStretch have worked together to create custom e-commerce related classes for clients, and look forward to continuing to collaborate on exciting educational opportunities.

MindStretch is committed to providing clients with the skills they require in the format and setting that will best meet their educational needs. MindStretch's goal is to help their customers grow and expand their business while making the best use of technology and interpersonal skills to enable them to meet and exceed their expectations.

Full Partner List

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

DMLCo is thrilled to count the following organizations as our partners.

Lighthouse Consulting
Milonic Solutions UK
MindStretch
SquidzInk
Thread, Inc.
Tropical Web Creations

Consulting

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

When people aren't sure exactly what they do or what to call it, too often they trot out that nebulous buzzword, consulting. In reality, consulting is an important process of its own, guided by a few core principles.

First, it is the consultant's job to work with the client, not vice-versa. We have experience in all types of environments: Mom and Pop retail, small local companies, Fortune 100 settings, you name it. We consult within those contexts in all sorts of ways, from a fully accountable outsourced solution to functioning as an internal technical resource, to all shades of variation in between.

This allows us to work with you the most important way: the way you need. We spend a lot of time at the start of client relationships ensuring we are clear on the context and our role. That allows us to spend the project focused on bringing you value.

Second, when done correctly, consulting is continually accountable. Regardless of when the consultancy ends, you need to have received value up to that point, even if the consultant vanished tomorrow. We view our consulting work--regardless of how long-term and permanent it may be--as a series of short assignments, each one a potential end-point.

That way, no matter what happens, we will deliver value.

Requirements

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

DMLContent requires the following:

Cold Fusion Server. DMLContent requires either Cold Fusion 4.5 or Cold Fusion MX as a webserver. There are no restrictions on the underlying operating system.

SQL Server. DMLContent requires access to a SQL Server for database functionality. It was created for SQL 2000, however, the system should run without error on SQL 7.0 as well. Information on support for Microsoft Access databases can be found here.

Administrative Requirements. To run the Administrative site, you will need to use a recent version of a standards-compliant browser. Microsoft's Internet Explorer 5.5 or above, or NetScape 6.0 or above would do the trick nicely.
Cold Fusion & Web Development Knowledge. You will need some familiarity with Cold Fusion and web development (HTML, Style Sheets, etc.) for the initial configuration of the system.

Once you're up and running, however, you need NO Cold Fusion knowledge for the successful operation of DMLContent. Knowing some basic HTML doesn't hurt, however: sometimes, the only way to get things to look exactly the way you want is to edit the HTML code directly.

DMLCo is, of course, available for initial configuration of the site, as well as continued consulting on the product: just contact us for more information.

Our Tools

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

Most of our sites rely on either Macromedia's Cold Fusion or Microsoft's Active Server Pages for their front end automation. Each tool has its strengths, and we generally choose between them based on the specific requirements of a given project. We do a lot of work in JavaScript, and, as the supporting technologies have stabilized, have begun working extensively with XML based architectures for data-centric projects.

Translation: we insist on technologies that have the highest levels of stability to support our efforts.

We don't believe in exposing our clients to the bleeding edge of technology. Behind the scenes, however, we are anxiously exploring the future. These may end up being the foundations of our future; but our standard is to not rely on next generation solutions until we know they provide best value for our clients.

Our database servers run Microsoft SQL Server, with both SQL 7.0 and SQL 2000 units ready to serve your information. By truly leveraging SQL's capabilities--by making it more than just a repository for your data, but rather an active participant in managing your data--we maximize the performance of both our web servers and our database boxes, resulting in faster, more efficient sites.

Tech Stuff

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

We do things in very specific ways. We believe we do this for a reason.

Having lived through the early days of the Internet, through the dot-com explosion and implosion, and through the beginnings of the online world settling down, we have--like most of you--seen our share of IT projects gone awry.

There are ways to prevent that from happening, or, at least, drastically minimize the probabilities.

Most of these ideas (heck, we can call them best practices) are common sense. Be consistent. Think through your architecture. Isolate code for easy debugging.

We've found, though, that while lots of people talk about these things, very few actually do them. And, of those that do, few do them with consistent rigor. We believe these practices, as they have evolved (and as they continue to evolve) are a large part of what sets us apart.

We have included links to some of the existing resources that contributed to our design philosophy. Some of these are manufacturer's resources, some are news sites, some are discussion groups. All have, at one point or another, occupied a prominent place in our bookmarks.

In the future, we will add select blog entries here, providing, we hope, a discussion area for where web development is going and how to get there with less pain and more success.

Our Team

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

The most important part of what we are is who we are.

We are a mixture of talents and interests, skills and ideas. Our staff includes project managers, office managers, database developers, design professionals, baseball fanatics, filmmakers, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and more.

We are more than our work, and by bringing our creativity and experience to bear on our projects, we all benefit.

Benefits

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

We believe DMLContent to be one of the richest featured systems available, especially at its price range. We have listed some of the most important aspects of the system here. Links will take you to more detailed information about different parts of the product.

Easy to Use. DMLContent: Content Management is Complicated. It Doesn't Have to Be Difficult. Just about sums it up: we've worked hard to create an easy to use interface to help you manage the vast amounts of information you want to share with the world.

Feature Rich. We put everything that seemed logical for a CMS system to have in here.

Your menus are virtually unlimited, with both HTML and DHTML options, allowing your navigation to be positioned anywhere you want it: you're in control.

You get close to a dozen pre-built Templates, and if they don't meet your needs, it's easy to create your own.

There's a sophisticated search engine, context-specific links, and even an event listing.

Open Source. Your purchase of DMLContent gives you all code contained in the product: Cold Fusion pages, stylesheets, SQL Stored Procedures, everything. The only exception are two encrypted templates used for licensing: other than that, you can customize the product to your heart's content.

Extensive Documentation. DMLContent contains close to 200 pages of documentation. Don't be afraid: this isn't because the system is too complex and unwieldy for ordinary humans to use. Rather, it's because we strive to make sure our customers have all the information they need at their fingertips for a successful implementation of the product. The documentation is updated over time, with the latest version being available online.

What's Under the Hood?

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

We make data on and off the web work.

Sounds pretty boring, eh? Other companies in our industry seem to be doing far more exciting things. They promise that

We're pretty sure we've seen some of these on a Web site or business plan before.

Find out what guides us, what we hold central in our work, and how we evaluate the tools we use.

Web Development

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

See data.
See data move.
Move data, move.

That's what we do: make data move. At the most essential level, that is what our various products and services boil down to. Visual data, statistical data, organizational data ... anything connected with your company.

We've been building Web sites for a long time. As the Web exploded, we were surprised at how sites looked and behaved the same. The same style, the same menus, the same look and feel. A few sites begin to successfully use a certain color or a certain graphic style, and it became the order du jour. The same thing happens under the hood, too: rather than integrate the best solutions for their clients, firms impose existing programming that doesn't quite fit.

We create appropriate, unique solutions. We take the time to find out exactly what you need and find a way to make it a reality.

Hosting

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

We're not interested in hosting your Web site.

Well, okay, we might be interested.

We do host a number of Web sites on our servers, and we think we take very good care of them. In addition to value-added services like a sophisticated statistics tracking package, we also offer advanced hosting services, like offsite backup storage and redundant publishing to secondary servers.

But we only host quality Web sites. They don't have to be sites we've built, but they do need to meet our standards, in terms of the quality, security, and stability of code. Controlling the quality of what we host--instead of taking easy money to host just anything--ensures our clients enjoy top level service and stability.

We take this very seriously. We don't just let prospective clients in. We take a look at their site. Offer a tune-up. Suggest ways to improve the coding and infrastructure. Then our fearless leader himself has to sign off on hosting it.

That's how seriously we take the process.

It's not to make more money; it would be much easier to just open the gates and sell hosting to anyone who came by. We want to provide our clients quality. And value. What we lose in easy money we make up for in better--and happier--clients.

Architecture

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

On the surface, Architecture is about the outlines of the tops of buildings, about the creative flourishes that give character and identity to places. Those things are important--and fun--but they are the final step, not the first.

Architecture reflects DMLCo's overall vision of IT projects: the choices made at the beginning of the project, in terms of data structure, infrastructure, and development processes, dictate the success or failure of the project as a whole.

Architecture doesn't mean rigidity and doesn't require slavish obedience to arbitrary standards. Most of all, good architecture never prevents you from changing directions in mid-stream when necessary. The working product must reflect and adjust to current realities.

In fact, the real impact of our project architecture is when these changes are required. Implementing change atop a weak foundation means starting over. But if your foundation is strong and you switch direction, changes can be made easily and efficiently.

For DMLCo, architecture is about building a foundation that is not only strong, but flexible enough to nimbly shift to support a change in scope. That way, the finished product will include the outlines and flourishes that may not have been visible at the beginning.

Our Process

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

To be successful, a development project requires good planning and preparation. The right mix of team members must be in place to meet the challenges along the way, and we must have the vision and courage to adjust as we go, so that when the journey is complete, everyone is excited and satisfied with where we are.

Explore each part of our five step process above to learn more.

1. Provisioning

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

Even Marco Polo didn't start traveling without supplies. We begin by searching for all of the pieces needed for your Web site. That means asking the right questions. And doing a lot of listening. Asking more questions. Then listening. We'll probably challenge you--that's a good thing, as it means we're doing our job.

There's a lot to consider in crafting effective, scalable solutions. We need to understand your goals and your specific business situation, as well as your existing (and planned future) infrastructure.

The goal of this phase is for us to have received the proper input, understand the complexities of your particular needs, and create a mutually-agreed upon scope for our collaboration. Then, we can start planning the journey.

2. Mapping

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

There are a lot of things to consider in crafting effective, scalable solutions. We need to understand your goals and specific business situation, as well as your existing infrastructure.

As important, we need to know where you want to be in the future. Then, we can make sure the path we choose will lead, not only to successful accomplishments in the short term, but long term success as well.

The ultimate goal of this phase is for us to gather the proper input, understand the complexities of your particular needs, and create a mutually-agreed upon scope for our collaboration. Then, we can start the journey.

3. Expedition

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

We've listened, gathered input, drawn a map, and packed our bags: it is time to begin the journey.

As always, our Technical Architect and Project Manager work closely to keep your team and ours on target. This is where the finished product takes tangible shape. In the beginning, much of the work is invisible to our clients. We are developing the basic infrastructure of your project, something we call a wireframe.

As we continue through the process, things develop in an appreciable way. Our clients are invited to be as involved as they want throughout this stage: some like to check the site every day, some prefer us to just let them know when we get there.

We also integrate constant testing and quality control as things come together. Some companies leave these steps to the end, reasoning they can pad the project cost with late corrections. That's not adding value. And that's why we don't work that way.

4. The Route

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

That's our way of saying that the best way forward often involves stepping back. Back to see the big picture, and back to make sure nothing was left behind.

As we move forward, we invariably discover new territory that needs to be covered, and new opportunities begging for attention.

Mapping and Expedition are dynamic processes, each constantly informing the other.

The only way to get from the beginning to the end of a maze is to take a new direction now and then.

5. Discovery

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

Your project is delivered and complete. So why do we call it Discovery?

Discovery is where we train you on managing and maintaining the project. That's to help you get to the point where you don't need us. We also transition into discussing the next steps--whether it be a new phase of the completed project or entirely new challenges--that we will solve together. Our focus on empowering you to self-sufficiency and remaining fixed on planning for the future ensures that DMLCo provides value.

Not only do you benefit from the completion of the current efforts, but we stay on top of what's next. In making one Discovery, we are already charting the path to another. Is this approach easy? No, it requires constant attention and evaluation of where we are and where we're going. Does it provide the best value for our clients? We certainly believe so.

Samples of Our Work

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

We have grouped our work into three categories: websites powered by DMLContent, other websites we have created, and hobby sites.

These represent a sampling of our work over the years, however, they do not represent all of our capabilities: like many companies, some of our best work is secured behind corporate firewalls, or on the Administrative side of public sites.

We would, of course, be glad to demo these private applications for you: just contact us to discuss further.

Also, we must share credit for these sites: on virtually all of them, we are grateful for the contributions of our brilliant graphic design partner, Squidz Ink Design.

Our Philosophy

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

Too many business relationships develop into an Us and Them dynamic: you are the client, they are the technology provider. At DMLCo, we build a team with your company. If the Internet has taught the world anything, it is that dynamic, organic interactions are the most productive and efficient.

We're all working toward the same objective. You are part of Us. Not in a You Will Be Assimilated way, but rather in a We Treat Your Concerns as Our Concerns, And Solve Them With That Same Level of Urgency way. It's not as catchy, but it serves you better.

Our success is the product of sound process and management. Each project--and each client--is unique. However, by taking planning (and re-planning) seriously and by following a systematic process that has been developed over years of experience, we are better able to produce measurable, consistent results.

Too often, IT projects start with an overly ambitious set of deliverables and milestones. Then, as the project slowly veers farther and farther away from those original objectives, nothing is done. Before long, it is too late. That's when cost overruns and general chaos set in.

At DMLCo, planning is an ongoing, evolving process, one that constantly strives to reflect current realities. It's the only way to deliver what is promised, and it is the only way we know how to work.

Houston Technology Firm Enters Strategic Partnership with Information Design Leader

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

HOUSTON, Texas (U.S.). DMLCo, a technology firm located in Houston, Texas (U.S.) expanded its strategic network this week, entering into a formal relationship with Thread Inc., an internationally-known Information Design firm headquartered in Toledo, Ohio (U.S.).

This strategic partnership is the latest in a growing network of relationships for DMLCo.

"Establishing a relationship with Thread is a natural for us," commented Daniel Levine, founder and President of DMLCo. "We are proven leaders in application architecture and delivery, and the international scope and Information Design leadership of Thread will enable us to provide even better service and quality for our clients."

"We select our partners very carefully," said Joe Sharp, Chief Executive Officer at Thread. "The technology leadership that DMLCo has established over almost a decade of Web excellence complements our own award-winning capabilities in Web development. This will be a classic 'win-win' for both companies."

This is another clear step in DMLCo's evolution into a consultancy focusing on high-level partnerships with key industry players. Thread has a stable of recognized consultants, with expertise ranging from branding to business strategy to content development.

"We are commited to assembling top thought leaders from around the world," said Dirk Knemeyer, Chief Design Officer at Thread. "Daniel Levine is exactly that, and we look forward to collaborating with his team at DMLCo for the benefit of our present and future clients."

- - -
Thread provides Information Design solutions to clients ranging from International Fortune 100 companies to local and regional organizations. With three core service areas ? Strategic Planning, Marketing Communications and Content Management ? Thread delivers the correct business solution for each individual client situation. One of the best-recognized technology and communications providers in the Midwestern United States since 1986, Thread has two locations in the U.S. with more than 60 total employees. For more information, please contact Josh Alkire at +1 419 697 8519 or josh.alkire@experiencethread.com.

Optional Components

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For full functionality, DMLContent also requires

Server Permissions. DMLContent requires write access to directories on the web server in order to successfully upload files, create Customization Files, and manage the Search Index.

Additional Components. In order to allow full image management, ImageMagick and MagickTag must be installed on the webserver (click here for more information).

Cold Fusion Server Basic Security. CFDirectory and CFFile must be enabled on the webserver.

Cold Fusion Configuration. DMLContent makes use of several custom tags, called through CFModule. Your webserver must support this. Additionally, the creation of custom Verity Search Indexes must be allowed.

If you need help configuring your webserver, DMLCo is available to provide consulting services.

If your hosting provider doesn't support the above configuration, DMLCo does offer hosting for DMLContent sites (information on pricing may be found here).

Submit A Support Request

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

Please complete all fields as fully as possible: the more information we have, the better we can assist you with your question.

Our goal is to answer all support requests within one business day, at the very most. Typically, you will hear back from us within hours--if not faster.

Development Showcase

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We have included links to the right to various other web sites we have created. Please feel free to contact us with questions on any of these.

Additionally, below, we will provide more information on two of these at a time (check back from time to time, as the spotlight sites will change).

Pursestories

http://www.pursestories.com/

Pursestories represents a unique interactive experience. Here, you will find examples of fantastic artwork by the site's creator, Mary Margaret Hansen, and, most importantly, stories.

Lots of stories.

Each one somehow connected with a purse, with, in Mary Margaret's words, that personal space we sling over our shoulder or hang from our wrist? Purses hold the "stuff" of our lives--lipsticks, loose change, illusions and memories.

Stories are submitted by readers in either plain text or document format, and are then subject to an approval process before posting. The site supports a sophisticated categorization process and, through both the general nature of the site and the StoryWeb, offers a level of stickiness (which, believe it or not, is actually a technical term referring to how well a site extends a user's visit) rarely found online.

The site has it's own Administrative side, allowing management of all stories and membership, including the ability to send opt-in newsletters to registered PurseStories members.

The Baseball Index (TBI)

http://www.baseballindex.org/

The Baseball Index is the product of SABR's Bibliographic Committee (more information on the SABR's DMLContent powered website can be found here).

TBI required assistance in moving from an unwieldy flat file database to a web presence. This was quite a challenge, as their information contains close to 200,000 bibliographic entries on baseball, including a sophisticated cataloging and indexing system. Additionally, TBI relied partially on sales of searches of their information for continued funding.

We accomplished this in stages, first addressing the underlying data normalization needs, then by building an e-commerce enabled site allowing access to this vast data.

The results have been great, with TBI receiving accolades and media attention from Major League Baseball, Baseball America, ESPN, and Baseball Weekly, among others.

Maintenance of the data is still performed by the committee members, usually through the importing and exporting of datasets into the online database. There is also, however, an Administrative interface that allows direct editing of the data itself.

Hobby Sites

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Structured, effective web development isn't just our profession. It's a passion, and one that is so ingrained that, even on our personal and hobby sites, we still adhere to it.

Feel free to browse the sites under Related Links to the right, and learn a little more about us, about what we spend our time on, and how we see the world.

What Do We Have to Offer?

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

DMLCo is an established leader in a range of services, from a full-featured content management platform (DMLContent) to web development to high-level consulting.

Everything we do is tailored to the unique needs of each client. Sometimes that means relying on leading edge strategy and technology. Other times, we employ time-proven, traditional techniques.

The key is, as it has always been, crafting sound business solutions informed by superior technology skills. This leads to more efficient operations and solutions that are stable and able to support change down the road.

What more could you ask for?

Support for Microsoft Access

Thu, 18 Sep 2003 11:43:50 CST

We currently do not support a Microsoft Access back end for DMLContent.

This decision grew from our commitment to SQL's ability to do much more than only store data: we use Stored Procedures, SQL's indexing and caching features, etc.

We are, however, contemplating a version designed to interact with MS Access.

If the lack of Access support is the only obstacle standing between you and DMLContent, please contact us and let us know: the more we hear from you, the higher on the development priority list the Access version will rise.