[Ted S]

More answers on getting started and customizing PRF can be found in the Install Guide

How does this mod work?
Rather than waiting for a user to open up a new thread talking about a product or service, you create a single “master” thread through your Admin Panel. This automatically creates a product record which shows up in a formatted, easy to follow section above the newly created thread containing an image, title, price and all sorts of other details.

Users looking for information can then turn to this single thread to get an overview snapshot, post a follow up question, and of course click over to write their own review or browse the existing ones.

How do reviews work?
Each time a user reviews a product, the main thread is updated both to include the review into the summary and with a post of the detailed comments. If you chose to do so, a separate thread can also be created in a different forum to increase conversation on the review.

Will this help me get more traffic / search engine rankings?
When users [or search engines] go looking for information what they want is clear, relevant and recent information. By moving conversation into a single thread this is provided in a digestible way that users are more likely to click on, search engines find easier to pick out over thousands of similar posts. Plus reviews are prime for sharing, discussing and passing around. So yes, this should increase traffic.

Can I have non-product threads in the same forum?
You can allow other threads in the same forums however this is likely to confuse your users as they will not see the product header bar and is not recommended.

Can I use this mod for displaying more than just standard products?
Sure. Anything that has consistent information and can be reviewed will work… whether your forum covers cruises, day spas or home repair services, this mod will fit the bill.

What fields can I fill out on each product?
1. Product Title
2. MSRP Price
3. Affiliate Shop URL & Title
4. Short & Long Description
5. Product Image [now uploadable]
6. UPC / ISBN / SKU for easy searching

How do I get the customized forums like in your images?
The install guide explains this in detail but sufficient to say it requires a quick code change to your forumdisplay script. We wish this wasn't the case but for now that's the only way to completely override the thread listings.

How does the activity stream get impacted?
Products and reviews are regular posts... sort of. To avoid odd looking updates we hide all of the activity from PRF in your activity system and instead create our own records written to reflect what's really happening each time an item is reviewed. Simple, and if we can say so... pretty slick.