on: http://www.monstercommerce.com/shopping_ca...atures_menu.asp
It has the phrase : Direct database access
under section: Database & Systems

Is this mean that I can connect to it from my home computer via a DSN and SQL Server driver?
I am thinking that your test means that the software has direct access to the database?

Thanks

Hello!

We can set up direct database access to your shopping cart via a table editor script. We don't set up a DSN, but you could connect with a DSNless connection. We do STRONGLY discourage this access though... for numerous reasons. The main reason is that one wrong move and you can pretty much destroy your shopping cart. We understand that many of our clients have a very good understanding of both ASP and SQL, however, the software is very complex and has taken months upon months to develop. Just like with anything of this nature, there will be a learning curve to fully understand everything that's going on without the possibility of breaking it.

Aquiring this access does mandate being on a custom plan, which puts you on a custom-only server. Also, there is no free development or database support... so if something should break, there would be a fee to fix. I find that 99% of our clients do not need direct access to the database. We have other tools, such as our DataPort, which can usually fit their needs completely.

How much does it cost to do the custom option? Or, would it be more feasible to ask for some custom programming? (that may mean I can stay on the standard platforms with other stores, right?)

Basically, I read about the Data Port, and, I think, I can probably get it to mostly work but presently have a semi-automated means of getting order info, so, figured, that it is possible.

For example... have the need:
. find a method to retrieve all order information when orders are placed. (currently, on ystore, they send an xml email that contains everything)
. mark orders on as completed, etc, as when my internal tools mark an order as shipped, cancelled, etc. (currently, on ystore, I send an xml email to yahoo when orders are shipped)

I understand, that may not be able to apply its business logic. (say, for example, email a customer when an order is marked as shipped/completed... but, thats ok)

Is there info about the layout of the tables related to orders? (I am guessing that everything is stored in MS SQL Server, right?)

Thanks

Hey NotJeffCarson,

Yes, those alternate means of getting information in and out of MonsterCommerce could be devoloped for you as a custom job (heck, we even can go as far as to have your XML import of upated order status trigger a notification email to your customers!). If you'd like please get in touch with me to cover more about how this you'd like this system to work; I'll be happy to work with you on it.

John Larson
john@monstercommerce.com

Our access policies are changing and have changed on several levels. I will have an update posted to this thread at some point in the near future.

The email is on its way to you...

Thanks