Here is a quick rundown of how my recently launched site ThisLineIsSecure.com was built. First of all, it would not have been possible without the Twilio API. Besides that:
- Written in PHP 5 using the Kohana Framework, the able successor to CodeIgniter.
- Hosted at MediaTemple using the Grid Service (like this blog).
- Developed on my iMac using Active State’s Komodo Edit.
- Graphics done using Pixelmator, stock art from Fotolia.
- Web Template adapted from Impress 05 Nuvio.
- Some icons taken from the Function Icon Set.
- Using the Standalone version of the WordPress Audio Player.
- Google Checkout & Google Analytics for payments.
- Version control and issue tracking via Unfuddle’s free version, which is enough for me. I have used this on huge projects, though, it’s very good. Think Basecamp + Beanstalk.
- SFTP uploads via the finest Mac shareware FTP client available, Cyberduck. The “synchronize” option is golden.
I need to tally up my expenses, but besides my time I’m probably out less than $200 for this whole thing so far. Unbelievable. I think that the Kohana project, Nuvio, the WordPress Audio Player, and Cyberduck each deserve at least a $20 donation, which will be forthcoming.
