Starting a social network

I want to start a social network I have the whole concept down and everything. I have some programming experience i've been learn/playing with php recently which i run off xampp for the apache and mysql. its been pretty fun so far, i like it a lot.

I'm just not really sure where to start for my social network.

what do i start first? Write the php code or start the design/graphics or start html/layout?

thanks

You start with the most common development method:

Documentation.

Here's my method:

Document what you want the social network to provide.

Document the basic "path" of features (visual side - just the basics)

example:

User Registration

We collect the following information:

• Example Info 1
  
• Example Info 2
  

User clicks on Register and the following happens:

• Entry is added to Database
  
• Validation E-Mail is sent
  

I'm quite verbose in my documentation, but it gives me real direction vs. just jumping into the mix in full-retard mode. Back-adding features will give you a headache, not counting all the potential forced complete dumps and rewrites because your idea/methodology suddenly doesn't work out for a new feature without sacrificing performance or security.

Most people start with a framework-design once they have the general idea down and then start pushing code around (Concept->Development of Concept->Concept Validation->Production Development->Production Deployment)

I usually start with a very basic design (as in visual design) and then do the PHP part.  Usually the visual design changes a lot.

As for PHP design, well....  It depends on the project and my mood that day ;p.

you should consider the elgg framework to kickstart you SN dreams...

http://elgg.org/

good luck,

- mark