After much consideration, we've decided that building a new backend for DailyKos simply isn't necessary or practical. However, we had already decided to move from Scoop, so we started looking for alternate platforms to build on.
Per our needs, we wanted something that would sustain our vibrant community. We considered MT, Wordpress, Drupal, and even Soapblox, but none of them made the cut.
Ruby-based platforms were tossed out because the fact that integers are objects, not primitives, just seemed weird.
In the end, we decided to go with a proven platform with a large installation base: phpBB 4.1.
Lots of folks may freak out over the changes, but I think the community at large will enjoy this new version of DailyKos with its many comments, avatars, and sig lines with pictures. I know I will.
Forums on the new DailyKos will include: Elections, Politics, Open Forum, Humor and Jokes, and any others that occur to us.
One feature that will excite many of you is that there will no longer be front page stories, diaries, or mojo, thus simplifying the DailyKos experience for everyone. It might take some getting used to, but we'll all be happier for it afterward.
Orange will remain the color scheme, so you needn't worry that that'll be changing. We wouldn't want to shake things up too much.
Let's all look forward to the bright new future that's in store for us!