Help! Templates, Skins, Scripts

[MAllie]

Can anyone tell me, in simple language, what is the difference between a template, a skin and a script in terms of their usefulness in making mini-sites?

Also, could some kind person point me in the direction of some good, solid, simple information on how to use templates/skins/scripts.

Thanks in advance!

[Acro]

A template is a pre-made design, sometimes sliced up and converted into HTML, images & assorted files, ready to use with minor changes to one's liking (e.g. change the logo).

A skin is a design that "dresses" a content management tool or a forum so that it looks different (and sometimes, performs different via the use of add-ons/plugins)

A script is a small or larger piece of software, either client-side (e.g. javascript) or server-side (e.g. a .php or .asp program) that processes data and otherwise interacts with the user to output a variety of non-static information.

[MAllie]

Thanks, Acroplex. That is useful information. I had a look at some templates but couldn't see how to use them. By that I don't mean what use they would be, but exactly how to manipulate them to change them for my purposes (the technical steps, I mean).

Also, am I right in thinking that when you use a template you're stuck with their graphics, although you can change the text?

[south]

Thanks, Acroplex. That is useful information. I had a look at some templates but couldn't see how to use them. By that I don't mean what use they would be, but exactly how to manipulate them to change them for my purposes (the technical steps, I mean).

Also, am I right in thinking that when you use a template you're stuck with their graphics, although you can change the text?

No, a template is something you would use as an example, a starting base. Typically, you would modify all the images & content to suit your individual needs.

[MAllie]

Oh, that sounds good, South. So where can I find out how to use one? Unfortunately, since I started work when people were still using manual (not even electric) typewriters, I need a place that gives explicit instructions.

[south]

Oh, that sounds good, South. So where can I find out how to use one? Unfortunately, since I started work when people were still using manual (not even electric) typewriters, I need a place that gives explicit instructions.

That could be a lengthly explanation, and I need to get to work (sorry). Your best bet is to google it. Most likely though, you got some psd files(?). You will especially want to search for "image slicing". Photoshop (the full versions, not elements) will allow you to slice your images into sections to use in the website, as well as hide/show specific layers to export only certain sections. Easier to learn and use would probably be paint shop pro, and definitely a lot cheaper. It has a much easier (relatively speaking) image slicer built in. The newer versions support psd files well, including layers. Keep in mind you will still need to edit the html files that are exported to suit your taste in an html editor.

If your template is in .html & images, you would just need to load it up in an html editor (dreamweaver is the standard), and change the text and images as needed. FYI, adobe offers 30 day trials on most of their products, including dreamweaver & photoshop, if you want to try that first. I think paint shop pro might as well (now owned by corel).

Scott

[MAllie]

Thanks, Scott. Most helpful, if a little complicated. I think the normal XHTML route sounds easier, after all.

[south]

Sorry, yes, I tend to start writing a novel once I get going..

[MAllie]

Not at all, Scott. It wasn't even a short short story. But beyond this grey head, I fear. HTML makes sense, even if it's laborious.

[Credit]

Script=functional code of how a website works/what it does
Skin=the design of the site (pictures/colors/arrangement)
Template=usually a combination of both to some extent (skin+some script to improve/change functionality)

[MAllie]

Thanks, Rich. I've been doing a bit of ferreting around about templates, even though I'm probably going to abandon the idea, and I'm wondering why they come divided up into music, business, family, etc. when you're going to replace the graphics with your own. Is it just that the layout is considered to be particularly suitable for the stated category?