Clarification for customizing needed!

[ptemplin7]

Hi All,

As a relatively new user I am floundering around with a project. I have read the Wiki and Docs and have a general Idea of what to do but I would like some clarifications on how to proceed before I make to big a mess.

Currently working on a development box with a copy of a production server in place.
Specs:
Linux Cent OS 4.4 (Running Sugar under Trixbox)
Using Sugar OS 4.5.1 (probably ver a or b at the moment)
Apache Webserver
PHP 4.3.11
mysql 14.7 Distrib 4.1.20


Specifically, I need to make some customizations to the various screens. My client want to add several fields within each module. I think I've mostly got this working, with a few errors and such. Is there a faster way to add a field to the module or should both the details and edit view be changed incorporating that field (as necessary)?
I also want to link info from another module. I have seen the post about how lead does not transfer custom fields across to contacts very well. But I also want to link information entered in Contacts with the accounts. Is this done by modifying the vardefs.php file for one or both of the modules? If so what is the min required to do this?

Additionaly I want to be able to copy an existing module and call it something else to track other specific infoprmation. (I.e use the Campaigns module to create an events module.) This module will link to the calendar but that is about it. Any suggestions on how best to go about this? or can you point me somewhere in the docs with a how to?

Thanks for the help, Feel free to answer only a part if necessary. Anything to help clarify the muddle at the moment would be great!

Thanks again,
Paris

[susiewilliams]

Hi there,

I'll tackle part of your question, at least...

"Is there a faster way to add a field to the module or should both the details and edit view be changed incorporating that field (as necessary)?"

There might be a faster way to do this via editing the code directly, but the best, "upgrade-safe" mechanism is to use the Studio tool within the Admin area. It may be slower initially, but over the long run, it should be faster because you won't have to restitch your changes with each upgrade.

[ptemplin7]

Thanks, I had a feeling that would be the case.

Wish there was some documentation on customization for beginners. A step by step would be good!

Maybe once I figure it out I'll document it for everyone else.

Paris

[susiewilliams]

Hi there,

Check out this section of the wiki for some sample customizations.