Crowdfunding the creation of the next version of LFGSS

This has probably been covered but what happens to the existing lfgss if/when it migrates to the new platform? With the underlying language being different will existing and past posts be searchable?

We are already discussing what import/export looks like.

But in essence:

1. LFGSS gets exported to a big set of files which will translate the BBCode into very basic Markdown on the way. The format of those files will try and encapsulate the idea of forum data (sans-technology or specific product implementation).
   
2. The new files get uploaded to Microcosm, and Microcosm iterates over them and imports them.
   
   

Threads on LFGSS become conversations on Microcosm. Posts become comments, etc.

We will import the functionality that is provided out of the box by vBulletin. A few things that I hacked in will be lost in the migration, but not the core things like users, threads, posts, private messages (all default vBulletin behaviour).

Because it will all be in Microcosm in the format Microcosm expects, all of it will still be available, searchable, editable, replyable, etc.

Under the hood lots happens, but for you the biggest different will be the interface changing and using Markdown rather than BBCode.

Microcosm will also have an exporter, which will allow site admins to dump a Microcosm in that same format.

In principle I'd like to get to a form of forum dump that any product could export and import, to give forums portability and freedom to choose provider. I want us to win because we're awesome, not because we lock you in.