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A bit of help if possible

by anton343
7 replies
Hi guys

I have had some software developed that is basically a content delivery system.

I really like the job I have had done but I think it may be to complicated for most to install.

basically they would have to download and install the software.
Create a database
Import tables
Allow remote access.

Once this is done they would have to create a usettingts.txt file and drop this into the folder they downloaded the software to.

Ok with the right instructions I have got most testers to manage this however I have come across some hosts that wont allow remote access which becomes a problem. (although I could host the dbases which creates a problem that they wouldn't have instant access after purchase)

The next stage is that they have to take as copy of the usettings txt file and place it in the download folder for their members and instruct them to drop this into the program folder when they download the members version of the software.

Could I have any opinions on whenever there is an easier way to deliver or develop the software to simplify things

Cheers Anton
#bit
  • Profile picture of the author peoplespaul
    If you are having issues with doing things with your host I'm guessing you are on a shared hosting package or the users may be. My advice would be to get a dedicated box and configure it yourself for the solution to run on :-). I think to find out more about the solution and provide advice we would need to know what the .txt file actually does. If this file does something that could be "implemented " either via php or a server wide configuartion I think this would help your solution, can you explain further the role of the .txt file?
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    • Profile picture of the author anton343
      Hi Paul

      The text file is basiccaly the databases settings. What hapens is when the members download and access the software they are connected by the software through remote access to the product database.

      Anyone hosting with an host such as hostgator wouldn't have a problem as they allow remote access, however not all hosts do


      Anton
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      • Profile picture of the author DEaFeYe
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        • Profile picture of the author anton343
          Originally Posted by DEaFeYe View Post

          Is this a web based or desktop based system?
          desktop as described below
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          • Profile picture of the author DEaFeYe
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            • Profile picture of the author anton343
              Ok

              i will try and explain as best as possible.

              The idea behind the software was to provide content to people wishing to run their own membership site.

              The software comes pre-loaded with content which is drip fed on a monthly basis to their members.

              As an admin of the software the purchaser can add rotating banners, set different prices for different memberships etc. and also add their own products if they wish.

              When they create the database and import the tables they only table's that have any content is the product table and a default admin in the user table.

              The idea also is that their members do not have to visit a membership site to access the products. They can open the software on thier desktop and access and download the products availlable.

              Hope this explains it better

              So far I have spent over $1,000's on this so I hope it hasn't gone to waste lol

              Anton
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  • Profile picture of the author peoplespaul
    I agree with deafeye having any concerns of the difficutly of the implementation of a product for a client raises concerns.

    I would first understand how this part of the implentation can be improved, personally I would see if their is a solution where you take on the techincal role instead of a client. A suggestion may be you could get the desktop application to access your database via ip? or something along those lines. In terms of usability anything that makes the life of joe bloggs more difficult I would avoid. Is their anyway you can spec scope and get the developers to include this? without introuding costs to either you or the client?
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    • Profile picture of the author anton343
      Hi Paul

      One solution I had thought of was to hosts their databases on my own server.

      This creates a problem in the fact that once they purchase I need to create the database, then the application and send to end user.

      This way it wouldn't becone an instant download after purchase

      Anton
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      • Profile picture of the author peoplespaul
        Hiya,

        It may be a bit hazey this, as although I do program alot. I'm unsure on the ease behind this or if it's possible I am assume it is, off the work which I have done in recent months.

        A trigger of some sort of action can be perfromed to create databases etc on purcahse/ a form completed etc. Any action you take within programming be it clicking an image or typing within an input field, you can have functions run on these to produce an action eg in simple terms if joe blogs buys a product. A database is created on your host or a bunch of tables are amended to include ther details. I may be shooting in the dark, and im sure any money you have invested has been invested well as at current you have a service which you can sell. :-) it's just a case of ironing things out. I think the issue is, with the hosting accounts of your clients it's difficult to be in control of the variables which are applicable. Try take as much control of things as possible that way any problems which occur you can control of. :-)

        What you have suggested I'm 99% sure can be automated and instant :-) it just depends on the level of bespoke programming involved.
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