All commercial systems involve sending information from a client computer (operated by a customer) to a server computer (operated by a vendor). The standard that's evolved to allow such transactions is called Common Gateway Interface (CGI). On top of its useful architectural discussions, CGI for Commerce does a fine job of explaining CGI data streams--something you're going to have to understand if you want to build programs that extract useful data from such streams. Other excellent CGI books exist, but none offer the kind of commercial orientation that's found here.
Product Description
One of the biggest opportunities to reach new customers lies on the Web. More than ever, companies with a Web site want to do more than just offer their customers information about products -- they want to sell their products on the Web. CGI for Commerce provides you with a step-by-step guide to installing a ready-made Web Store application as well as detailed information on how it works. Also included are numerous examples to demonstrate the features and flexibility of the store. In no time at all, you'll be selling your products to the online universe.
From an enhanced HTML catalogue, where users just click on a button to buy an item while browsing, to a complete database-backed application -- all the code is included on the CD-ROM ready to install on your Web server. Your Cyberstore will also be able to take advantage of advanced browser features like frames, JavaScript, and VBScript to enhance the virtual shopping experience. Example code for these exciting features is also included on the CD-ROM.
