Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - building complex deck

I am going to build a pretty complex 2-level deck (roughly 25' x 35', with a bunch of 45 degree angles/octagonal shapes). I built a one-level, square deck once, so I know the basics. But I am scared I'm going to screw this one up due to the complexity. I don't have the money to pay someone to do it. First, are there any words of wisdom out there on doing this kind of thing (typical things to watch out for, "usual" mistakes I should avoid)? Second (and what I really want to know), how do you get the measurements for the second tier height? I mean, is it as simply as building the footings/posts high enough so the floorboards can rest on the joists at the proper height? Or are there some advanced formulas you have to use to figure out how to do this (multiple levels of joists, or something like that)? It seems like it should be easy, but like I said, I never built a two-tiered deck, so I don't know the "right" way to do it. Any web sites with hints on how to build two-tier decks should be useful, if anyone knows any. Sorry for this question being so vague. Thanks for any help you could provide. John

One of the most comprehensive sites I've found for deck building is <http://www.deckology.com> They're inconjuction with <vadecks.com>

You can fax what you plan on doin to them and they will instruct you on the best way to go about it. Good luck.
Ciao....