Going Beyond Basic Directory Features

The Challenge

The client needed to change their Brilliant Directories platform from just a standard directory into a more advanced platform for content and members. This meant handling many different types of content, managing complex membership types with custom processes, and connecting easily with important external systems like Zoho CRM and an existing Drupal job board site. The standard Brilliant Directories features weren't enough for these complex needs and custom processes.

The Solution

Using Brilliant Directories as a strong base, we did extensive full-stack customization and development to meet The Posting Board's specific needs.

1. Platform Design & User Experience

   We made many changes to the standard theme, adjusting layouts, headers, footers, forms, and sidebars. We created custom widgets to show members, events, membership plans, and improve search results. We also made sure the design was fully responsive on all devices.

2. Advanced Membership & Content Management

   We built custom logic for complex free and paid memberships, including admin review steps and sub-account management. We set up specific processes for users to post and admins to review different types of content like events, news, podcasts, and videos.

3. Powerful Search & Data Handling

   We made a very customized search function with advanced filters, radius search, category, and keyword options. We developed logic for complex user forms, including secure file uploads for licenses and other documents.

4. Easy External System Integrations

   We built a detailed, real-time connection with Zoho CRM using webhooks and AJAX to sync member data and activities. We created an easy-to-use admin area within Brilliant Directories for connecting data fields between the platforms. We integrated the API to automatically create users on a separate Drupal job board site. We also integrated Google Maps and location services (using ipinfo.io) for auto-completing addresses and finding locations. We automated how multimedia works, like showing YouTube/Vimeo thumbnails and playing SoundCloud audio.

5. Improved Interactivity & Platform Tools

   We added dynamic features using AJAX/jQuery for things like adding favorites, checking forms live (validation), and uploading files without refreshing the page. We created dynamic form fields and showed elements based on what the user entered. We also built internal tools like an anti-spam system (based on IP/country/content) and a custom API endpoint for specific internal tasks, like creating direct login links.

Technical Implementation Notes

This project involved a lot of custom coding mainly using PHP and JavaScript (AJAX/jQuery) inside the Brilliant Directories platform. It required working closely with the BD database structure, creating custom Widgets, building and using external APIs (REST, Webhooks), and making significant changes to how the front-end looks and works.