Flexicontent overriding existing site layout

We have a Joomla site that has extensive layout modifications. We had our layout to a point that our client was very happy with and then installed FC to take advantage of its extensions to the content system (custom fields, items belonging to multiple categories, etc.). After installing FC many aspects of our site have changed. For example the default "created by", "last modified", "voting", etc. have showed up again after being turned off. We've also lost menu elements. There are other changes as well.

Further, the super user of the site informed us that the management of articles was different. The default Joomla article management she was trained to used has been changed to FC.

Is there a way to use FC without it having such a dramatic impact on our existing site? Is it best to install Joomla and FC before beginning any layout customization?

We are desperate for an answer as the success of the site relies on our current custom layouts as well as FC's robust article extensions.

Thanks,
Dan Johnson
ContiCreative.com

Well,

1. FlexiContent takes over (replaces) the item management. It uses the com_content articles and their fields and adds own features. Also, all menu links pointing to articles or categories have to be changed to the corresponding FC menu link types.
2. FC has an own templating system. So you have to adapt the FC templates (make a copy first). There are several standard templates coming with FC so choose the closest to yours and modify it.
3. Vote and the other stuff can be changed in the item layout under Extensions -> FlexiContent -> Templates.

Actually, if you need the FC features like versioning, editing workflow, extra fields. multi category assignment etc. for all articles, it is definitely worth to work with FC. If you only want to build e.g. a directory or a download section on your page othe stand alone CCK systems might be better to use.

Rooney

Thanks Rooney,

After more reading I see that is the case. I think the lesson I learned is start with Joomla+FC from the beginning. Don't try to add it later. Live and learn.

Take care,
Dan