it’s important to keep them in different folders, and to make sure your wp-config.php specifies different ‘table prefixes’ for each installation.
that’s *very* important.
if you’re doing this for multiple users as opposed to just multiple purposes, consider creating subdomains via cpanel instead of putting them in subfolders.
it’s just … better.
other than that… the only potential issue is plugins which create their own database tables. Occasionally you find a dumbass plugin author who doesn’t respect the table prefix setting in your wp-config.php.
… in the event this happens, the same plugin installed on both blogs will use the same settings table, which could be problematic.
It’s unlikely – but something to keep in the back of your mind, if you find one blog’s plugin settings are mysteriously appearing on the other’s as well.
what you want to do is very common, and it’s been done by people much MUCH more stupid than you, so I wouldn’t worry too much 😉
(I meant that in the nicest way possible…. you’re here asking questions beforehand after all, that gets top marks from me).
Ivovic, that’s exactly what I need, and much appreciated.
It has a relatively simple aim, to look at various theme styles in quick succession, rather than operate several independent installations, so you’ve really answered everything I need to know.
Thanks again
