March 2014 News & Updates

[Christopher 1,393]

[center:1dfgpghx]March 2014 News & Updates[/center:1dfgpghx]

 

Hello all,

 

I do apologize for the quietness for the past few weeks or so - I've been busy with numerous exams and quizzes, and now homework and projects that have been assigned over break. So needles to say, I've been occupied with little time to do anything else. However, to fill people in on the plan(s), here's what's going on.

 

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Server Migration

 

The previous announcement that mentioned our server migration still holds - we have not yet gotten the new server yet due to the hosting provider not finishing the process yet. Unfortunately at this time, we have no information on when the migration will happen but since it is queued, it could happen anytime - so stay tuned. For TeamSpeak users, do check the previous announcement for the new IP address once it is available (we will post the IP as soon as we get it).

 

New Website in Progress: R4

 

[center:1dfgpghx]http://i.imgur.com/EXjYilsl.png

 

Full-size image: http://i.imgur.com/EXjYils.png[/center:1dfgpghx]

 

Also in the works is a complete redesign of our main website, R4 (revision 4). All pages are being rewritten, reconstructed, and reorganized to bring a better user experience for visitors of our site. At this time, there is no ETA on when it'll be available, however we will make updates as necessary and perhaps even post a few screenshots for those who are interested. Again, since this design is a complete overhaul, there's no ETA on its release - though we'll post updates as we see fit.

 

Service Database 14

 

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Lastly, also in the works are the final versions of Service Database 14. We encourage users to explore the beta of Service Database 14 and find any (and all) possible bugs and provide feedback so that we can improve it before its final release. Other desktops will be available in the final release, however, we encourage users to explore those available in the beta.

 

Other issues that play a big role in Service Database are the discussions on whether or not we should support department services for Grand Theft Auto V, such as the police department, fire department, medical services department, and transport authority. While some of these services might be able to be individually supported, the decision on whether or not we will support all, some, or none, still is in discussion (click the link to read the discussion and join-in).

 

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For those who may have heard via rumors about the future of the Service Database, the next version of the Service Database (after version 14) is Service Database NT. We cannot say too much about it now as its release won't be until way after SD 14 is released, however we can say that it will contain a more friendly and cleaner UI, more modern feel, and newer technologies.

 

Why mention this? Well, our new website is being built with some of the technologies that will be in use with Service Database NT. So yes - development of SD NT is already underway and you'll get to see some of its design and technology integration with our new website, once its released.

 

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Conclusion

 

Other features and near-future plans are also the works, however we'll announce those a bit later. We've highlighted the important features that are in the works very soon - so others will come soon thereafter.

 

For those who are new or newer here, remember that this is primarily a casual gaming community that is still working on growth. More importantly, we are different than most other communities as we are an organization: the importance and significance of this will be more obvious as we roll out the new updates. So while it may seem quiet (on our forums and/or TeamSpeak), it's a combination of us still growing and our staff working hard behind-the-scenes to develop a strong infrastructure for our member and user base. It might not seem relevant now - but rest assured - it will pay off in the long run. ;)