BuddyPress, a social networking platform based upon WordPressMu, originally scheduled for release by the end of this year is in beta release. Developers have frozen new features are are now trying to iron out bugs before the version 1.0 release.
BuddyPress is not an application on its own, rather it is a collection of WordPressMu plugins that extend core functionality. They can all be installed as a collection or individually. Here’s a list of components:
- Extended Profiles that allow administrators to customize fields for user information and allows users to configure what is visible to the public.
- Private Messaging between users
- Friends
- Groups that may be created by any individual including forum, photos, blog, and wire
- The wire similar to a comment wall available to profiles, groups, etc
- Activity Streams for yourself or your friends
- Blogs (of course)
- Status Updates
- Photo Albums
- Forums enabled through bbPress
Implementation involves a few steps. First WPMU must be installed, then the Buddy Press Plugins are uploaded and activated. Finally, bbPress must be installed and integrated. Jim Groom is writing an evolving guide to the process. It includes links to many great WPMU resources.
Having administered a WPMU installation at my school for about a year, I’m very eager to work with BuddyPress. I’ll be looking at the way in which the access/user privileges integrate into the various components. Adding one or two components at a time might ease the transition.
Elgg and BuddyPress have common features, but based on my experiences with WPMU and Elgg, I know they will be substantially different. Once versions are more stable, I look forward to comparing the two. Meanwhile, I’d gladly try it out as a user if anybody has a test installation.
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