Thread: Ecommerce Systems

Wordpress isn't an eCommerence package and even if you could modify its templates, it wouldn't work very well if at all, so I'd forget that idea.

There are many PHP 'stores' you can use (osCommerce, ZenCart and CubeCart to name a few) but 'easy' isn't part of the game. Make no mistake, pre-canned 'stores' have a steep learning curve and you'll have to dig deep into their PHP code to make modifications you desire. Depending on your PHP skills, you may have to hire a programmer to make changes that you want.

As for writing one from scratch, unless you're an experienced developer and know databases, don't even start. It's a massive under taking and could take a year of part time coding to finish. Believe me, I know.

You're going to need a website that is PCI compliant since I assume your Aunt wants to sell online? If so, get a PCI compliant site from 1849WebHosting dot com. Their servers are already PCI DSS compliant, so while you'll have to pass your own PCI scans, it will be easy to do on their servers. You won't find a lower cost to get a PCI compliant site, period.

And don't even think about selling online without being PCI compliant. It now required by all merchant account providers. All it takes is one person to buy something using a stolen credit card and the bank will fine your Aunt out of business. The fines are extremely large!!

You'll also need an SSL Certificate and I got mine from GoldRushWebHosting dot com for 29.99/yr. They will install it for you which is a good idea since installing SSL's is not a simple task. You'll also need a dedicated IP address since this is required for an SSL Cert. I think they charge 1.00 or 2.00 per month for a dedicated IP.

And lastly, your Aunt will need a merchant provider so she can accept credit cards online. This is a real mud pit and googling around will make your head spin. I've had 3 in 5 years and if you're interested in which one I think is the best for the money, PM me here.

Good luck to you with your website...!!!