Advice on install of Sharepoint

[Kyle]

I have read several post on Microsoft's VLE platform. I would like to install Sharepoint on a test server on our domain. I know there are beta versions of 2007 out at the moment but i do not want to use them yet. I would like to install the current version so i can find a lot of resources to help me o nth net.

I am currently unsure on how/where/what for on how to install.

Where do i get the software from?
What should i be installing?
What would the correct procedure be?
If i install it on a test server but join the server to our domain will be doing any arm to our set up if i remove it later.

I am new to this and could do with a little help.

[GrumbleDook]

There are 2 things to look at ... do you want just the fancy front-end to a website or do you want the whole portal with mail, class server (for assessments), ISA, etc.

If you want the former then setting up Windows Sharepoint Services on any IIS box in your domain will work and not cause issues ... if you want the latter then serious planning needs to happen.

You can sign up with M$ for an evaluation copy of it all (on the sharepoint site IIRC) in the same way you can get eval copies of SQL Server, Exchange, etc.

I would also recommend you try and find a school (or schools) locally that have it set up so you can pop over and work out what problems you may end up having or changes you need to make to the design.

[adent]

Installing on a test server will not make any changes to your domain (unless you install Exchange 2007 that is - then there are some changes to the AD Schema). Even so - it should not make any difference to normal running.

My advice would be to set up 2 machines in a stand alone network. One as a DC and the other as the portal. That way you can play without getting in the way

Installation seems straightforward but if you want to see it in action at another school drop me a line with your location and I will forward you some contact details in your area.

The Sharepoint Learning Kit is available for download now from www.codeplex.com/slk

[john]

I am using it, just got to update the Learning Kit to the final version and I am very impressed with it. It just what I have been wanting.

[adent]

I am using it, just got to update the Learning Kit to the final version and I am very impressed with it. It just what I have been wanting.

I agree - the only dissapointing thing is the lack of the offline features that you get with Class Server 4 Teacher.

Having to grow our own system for that. IMHO a major own goal - not all teachers have (or want) broadband at home - but still want the flexibility of marking. Anyone know of a system to do this?

[john]

I've never had MS Class Server before so its not an issue for us, but I can see how it will be an issue for others.

[meastaugh1]

I am using it, just got to update the Learning Kit to the final version and I am very impressed with it. It just what I have been wanting.

I agree - the only dissapointing thing is the lack of the offline features that you get with Class Server 4 Teacher.

Having to grow our own system for that. IMHO a major own goal - not all teachers have (or want) broadband at home - but still want the flexibility of marking. Anyone know of a system to do this?

Have a look here.

[adent]

Ok - it just confirms what I said - no offline facility. Guess we will have to write something. I will keep you posted.