Is VB right for me?

[Tom Kraus]

We are creating a board designed to help service providers in related industries network, share information (technical and non-technical), link to other useful information, etc. The board will be free to join but will have two optional access levels which will be paid. If successful we could have hundreds of thousands of members and millions of posts. Wishfull thinking I know but we are trying to prepare ourselves from the outset.

Features should allow:

1. A standard form (with optional comments) to review members by other members contributing to the member rating system with delayed posting so administrators can approve/disapprove content.

2. Provide adequate and conspicuous advertising space with links to the advertisors.

3. Adequate space in the member's profile to describe their businesses, including website, email, messenger and other links.

4. Private messaging with instant email notification to members and administrators.

5. Allow file uploads without fear of virus/spyware contamination - paid members feature only.

I could probably post many more but I think the point is that we hope to design a very robust site that will be a valuable tool to the members.

My review of this site seems to indicate that some tools/modifications are available but that it will probably take an individual with advanced technical skill to implement changes.

I would appreciate any comments you have regarding how robust the standard package comes and how easy it is to upgrade with bells and whitsles that can be purchased here or eslewhere without having to hire a programmer at every turn. Bottom line: How much should I expect to spend in upgrades, programming, etc. to get a first class, feature rich BB going.

Lastly, does the purchased support from vbulletin.com allow "How to...." type questions?

I appreciate any and all comments that will help push me over the edge and purchase vbulletin.

Tom