Create A Webshop Without Databases - SimpleCart(js)
A Lightweight Alternative to Traditional E-commerce Systems
Conventional shopping systems can frequently be resource-intensive and complex to manage. They often place significant demands on server resources and can be challenging to implement.
While blog plugins, such as those available for WordPress, offer a potential solution, even these typically necessitate a high degree of technical expertise regarding web server and database administration.
Essentially, setting up these systems involves considerable effort, numerous files, and can be particularly difficult when utilizing free or limited web hosting plans.
Introducing SimpleCart(js) – A Different Approach
We will now explore a viable alternative that is both free and remarkably lightweight. This method, however, requires a slightly different workflow than traditional e-commerce platforms.
Unlike most shopping cart solutions, SimpleCart(js) does not provide a graphical user interface for adding products. Instead, product details are incorporated directly into your website's HTML code using specific tags.
This may sound daunting, but the process is straightforward and we will guide you through the necessary steps.
The key benefit is its simplicity and minimal resource requirements, making it ideal for smaller online stores or projects with limited hosting capabilities.
It offers a streamlined way to add e-commerce functionality without the overhead of a full-fledged system.
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simpleCart(js) Overview
The user interface of simpleCart(js) is designed to be streamlined, intuitive, and straightforward. Products within the shopping cart on this website are presented in a grid layout.
This presentation features sizable icons, detailed product descriptions, and clear pricing information.
Product Options and Suitability
Webmasters have the flexibility to incorporate various options for each product, such as size choices for apparel – for example, small, medium, and large T-shirts.
Due to its architecture, simpleCart(js) functions optimally when showcasing a limited and relatively unchanging product catalog, making it an ideal solution for hobbyist or beginning online sellers.
Cart Placement and Functionality
Typically, the shopping cart is positioned at the bottom of the webpage, although its placement is entirely customizable.
Within the cart, customers can examine their selected items, adjust quantities, or remove products as needed.
Checkout Process
Upon confirming their order, clicking the Checkout button directs the buyer to either Paypal or Google Checkout to initiate a funds transfer.
Following a successful transaction, you will receive a notification confirming the receipt of funds, at which point you can proceed with shipping the purchased products.
The entire process is remarkably simple and efficient.
Integrating SimpleCart(js) into Your Website
Initially, ensure your website supports JavaScript execution – a capability common to most platforms – and that you have sufficient web hosting space for the necessary files. The SimpleCart(js) package can be downloaded directly from its official website.
It operates on a donation basis, allowing you to contribute based on your satisfaction with the software. Once downloaded, extract the contents of the archive and upload the simpleCart.js file to a directory on your web server.
The setup process is then completed by incorporating specific code snippets into your website’s HTML structure. The placement of these snippets dictates where the corresponding SimpleCart(js) features will appear on your pages.
<script type="text/javascript" src="simpleCart.js"></script>
This script tag should be added to every page where you intend to utilize SimpleCart(js). It should be positioned between the
<HEAD>
and
</HEAD>
tags.
<script type="text/javascript">simpleCart.checkoutTo = PayPal;
simpleCart.email = "you@yours.com";
</script>
To configure SimpleCart(js) for PayPal checkout, include the above code snippet within the <HEAD> tags. Remember to replace the green text with your registered PayPal email address.
<script type="text/javascript">simpleCart.checkoutTo = GoogleCheckout;
simpleCart.merchantId = "111111111111111";
</script>
Alternatively, if you prefer Google Checkout, use the provided code snippet. Insert it between the <HEAD> and </HEAD> tags. Instead of an email address, substitute the green text with your unique Google Checkout Merchant ID.
<div class="simpleCart_shelfItem"><h2 class="item_name"> Product Name </h2>
<select class="item_size">
<option value="Small"> Small </option>
<option value="Medium"> Medium </option>
<option value="Large"> Large </option>
</select>
This code snippet defines an individual item for sale. Customize the product name and price, indicated in green. The select class, highlighted in blue, is optional and can be omitted if your product doesn't have variations.
<span class="item_price">$35.99</span><input value="1" type="text">
<a href="javascript:;" class="item_add"> Add to Cart </a></div>
Place this code between the <BODY> and </BODY> tags on the page where you wish to display the item.
<div class="simpleCart_items"></div>
To display the complete shopping cart on your website, insert this code snippet between the <BODY> and </BODY> tags, specifying the desired location.
You have <span class="simpleCart_quantity"></span> items in your Cart.Cart total: <div class="simpleCart_total"></div>
<a href="javascript:;" class="simpleCart_checkout">Checkout</a><a href="javascript:;" class="simpleCart_empty">Empty</a>
These elements will display the number of items in the cart, the total cost, a checkout link, and an option to empty the cart, respectively. Each element can be used independently.
For more advanced configurations, including currency settings, tax calculations, shipping options, and cart appearance customization, consult the official SimpleCart(js) documentation.
What are your thoughts on SimpleCart(js)? Have you previously implemented an online store on your own website, and if so, what was your experience? Share your insights in the comments below!
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