Web Administration - Web Administration Online Store

   Web Administration Help (updated 2-23-2003)
 

 

  Installation:
   
  Server Requirements
  Browser requirements
  Installation
  Database
   
  Security / SSL:
   
  URL
  SSL URL (Secure Link)
  Enable SSL
  Users
  Formatting/LCID
   
  Image Upload:
   
  Image to Upload
   
  Email Setup:
   
  Server Components
  Email Server/SMTP
  Admin Email Address
  Order Notification
  Notify On
  Contact Us Form
  Order Confirmation
  Password Recovery
   
  General Setup:
   
  Featured Items
  Credit Cards
  Pay by Mail
  Inventory
  Shipping
  Order Status Codes
  Sales Tax
  Next Order Number
   
  Colors / Text:
   
  Colors
  Menu Labels
  Graphics
  Store Sections
   
  Gateways (payment):
   
  Authorize.NET / RTware
  Simple Integration (SIM/Weblink)
  Advanced (AIM / Direct Response)
  PayPal
  2Checkout.com
  WorldPay
  PayFlow Link
  HTML Editor/Text:
   
  Store Name
  HTML Page Titles
  Website Description
  Search Engine Keywords
  Top Banner
  Bottom Banner
  Logo/Slogan
  Welcome Message
  In The News
  Checkout Help
  Features Page
  Order Status
  Order Thanks (Credit Card)
  Order Thanks (Pay by Mail)
  Contact Us
  Order Header
  Order Footer
   
  Categories:
   
  Category Name
  Parent/Sub Category
  Short Description
  Detailed Description
   
  Items / Item Setup:
   
  Item No. / SKU
  Item Name
  Category
  Active Items
  Featured
  Price
  Sale Price
  On Sale
  Hide / Conceal Price
  Default Quantity
  Current Inventory
  Short Description
  Detailed Description
  Hide Heading
  Item Options
  Thumbnail Image
  Large Image
  Resize Images
 
 
Installation:
 
Server Requirements:
 
PDshop is an ASP (Active Server Pages) application designed to run on Internet Information Server, or Personal Web Server for Windows 98/NT/2000/XP. 

Microsoft Access (default):
If you choose to use the supplied Access database, ODBC drivers are required for the connection (MDAC 2.5 or above is recommended and can be download free from www.microsoft.com)  Most Windows web hosting services already have this installed. 

Microsoft SQL Server:
If you choose to use Microsoft SQL server as your database, you must have Microsoft SQL Server installed on your webserver.  

For email functionality, your web server must have one of the following email components installed:
Dimac W3JMail, CDONTS, Persits ASPemail, Dynu Email, or Dundas.  (Most Windows web hosting services have at least one of these already installed). 

We recommend Windows 2000 Server and Internet Information Server.  If plan to use Windows NT Server, we recommend updating the web server to VBScript 5.1 or above.  If you wish to use the Advanced Integration Method for credit card processing with Authorize.NET, Microsoft XML 3.0 or above is required.  No components are needed for the Simple Integration Method or Weblink payment gateways.  While most Windows web hosting services meet all of these requirements, all of the above mentioned components can be obtained for free.
 
Browser Requirements:
  Store Front: Any browser, compatible with Javascript and cookies.  (Internet Explorer 5 or higher, and Netscape 6 or higher is recommended)

PDAdmin (The Web-Based Administrator): Internet Explorer version 5, or higher is required.
 
Installation:
  Some of these instructions are intended for web server administrators and may not apply to you. 

1.  Download the zip file called "Web Administration.zip" and save it to your computer, or web server. 

2.
  Using an Unzip program (such as Winzip - which is available at download.com) locate the file you just saved, and extract all files and folders to your computer or web server.  Choose a suitable location on your computer to extract the files. Next, click on the "README.HTM" file for important information and your license agreement.

3.
(optional) Locate the "setup.asp" file in the "includes" directory.  Using "notepad", you can open this file and make changes such as the database location, or the RC4 encryption code.  The RC4 encryption code is the "password" used to encrypt and decrypt sensitive data that is stored in the PDshop database.  If you do not wish to use the default RC4 encryption code, you must change it before you begin using the online store, it cannot be changed once passwords, or credit card data has been stored in the database.

4.
Upload the contents of the online store files (the files and folders extracted earlier) to your web server.

5.
Check the "permissions" (security settings) on your web server.  If you choose to use the default Access database, you must have "Write" permission set on the "data" directory and the "Web Administration.mdb" file.  If you wish to use the Web Administration Image upload feature for uploading images, you must have "Write" permission on the "images" directory.  If you will be uploading the online store to a web hosting provider, you most likely will not have the ability to change permissions.  You will need to contact them to change the permissions. 

NOTE: it is recommend that you rename your "data" directory, or move it to a secure location that is not accessible to web browsers.  Create a new directory, set the correct security permissions, and then edit the "setup.asp" file using notepad to reflect the new database location. A few sample connection strings are included in the setup file.

If you choose to use a Microsoft SQL Server database with Web Administration, you will first need to edit the "setup.asp" file.  Modify the connection strings as needed.  Next, you will need to create a blank database using your SQL Enterprise Manager.  Finally, you will need to run the following script from your web browser: http://www.domainname.com/admin/dbstructure.asp.  The Database structure procedure will create the tables and fields needed to run Web Administration, automatically.  If you receive any errors while running this procedure, check that you properly configured the "setup.asp" file, also verify your SQL database installation and check all security/user settings and permissions.
 
6.
Open http://www.domainname.com/shop/ from your web browser and test the store.  If you see the store, then you have successfully installed Web Administration.  If you receive an "Internal Server Error" while trying to access the store, than you may not have properly set your "permissions", or if you changed the database location you may need to recheck your "setup.asp" file. 

7. Now you are ready to Proceed to the web based Administrator, PDAdmin.  Using Internet Explorer 5 or above, visit  http://www.domainname.com/admin/ to continue setting up your store.
 
Database:
  MICROSOFT ACCESS:
By default, all data is stored in a Microsoft Access database (compatible with 2000/XP).  The database file, Web Administration.mdb, is located in the "data" folder.  You may change the location of the database by editing the "\includes\setup.asp" file, and moving the database.  It is strongly recommended that you rename the data directory, or move it to a secure location.  Edit the setup file using "Notepad", or any other text editor after you change the location.

MICROSOFT SQL SERVER:
As an alternative you can use Microsoft SQL Server as your database system.  Follow the instructions in Step 5 above to create the necessary tables and fields for running Web Administration.  NOTE: Since SQL Server is a 3rd party database system that requires additional technical background, Web Administration does not provide technical support related to your database.
 
Web Administration Configuration:
 
PDshop can be customized using the Web Based Administrator, "PDAdmin".
(http://www.domainname.com/admin/)
 
Security / SSL:
 
  Upon entering PDAdmin for the first time, you will receive a warning message stating that you have not set up any users.  We recommend that you create an admin user right away.  From the main menu, choose Security / SSL.  On this page, you enter your web addresses (normal & SSL) as well as setup and maintain Admin user security.

URL:
In the URL field you must enter your regular (non-SSL) URL. 
Example: http://www.domainname.com/

The URL you enter in this field must begin with "http://" and must end with "/".  Although the store will function without a URL entered, it is recommended.  Without it, any emails that are generated by PDshop that contain links will be incomplete.

SSL URL:
In the SSL URL field you enter your SSL (secure) URL.  It is not a required, however strongly recommended that you use an SSL link.  Simply enter the general SSL link to the store, PDshop will automatically determine which pages need to use this link.  In general the Sign-in, Orderstatus, Checkout, etc. pages will use this link.  If you SSL URL is shared, simply enter it as you would your own SSL. 

SSL Example: https://www.domainname.com/
Shared SSL Example: https://secure.webhostingprovider.com/domainname/

In some instances you might have an SSL url that does not point to the same directory (or location) on your web server, such as a secure directory.  In this case, it may be necessary to copy the store files (all files and folders) to that location as well.  In addition, you may need to upload duplicate copies of any storefront images you insert into the store setup when customizing.

Enable SSL URL:
By default the SSL URL is disabled.  Choose "Yes" to enable the SSL URL you have entered.  Once you enable it, all checkout, sign-in, orderstatus, etc. pages will use this link.

Users:
Under the Users heading you will see all users that you have been setup with "Administrator" privileges (access to PDAdmin).  For each user you can assign a password and a security level.  There are two levels of security, Level 1 and Level 2.  Level 1 users have full access to PDshop; Level 2 users cannot access any setup pages (they have no access to any menu items under "Setup". 

To add a new user, click on "Add User".  Simply type a username, and password (be sure to confirm the new password).  Choose the user level, then click on save.  **All Admin passwords, as well as customer passwords are stored in an encrypted state within your database, using RC4 encryption (a strong and secure method).  If you, or anyone else were to open your database directly, they would not see passwords.

If it becomes necessary to change a users password, simply click on "edit" next to the user in the Security/SSL page.  Next, in the "New Password" and "Confirm Password" fields type the new password.  Remember, only Level 1 users have access to this page.  We recommend that only 1 user (a manager) have Level 1 access.  At anytime, you can also change a users access level.

In the event you need to remove a user, simply click on the user from the Security/SSL page.  Next, check the "delete this user" checkbox and click on save.  You will be prompted to confirm before deleting.

Formatting/LCID (Locale ID):
Under the Advanced settings you will find a Misc. formatting setting.  The LCID (Locale ID) can be modified if you wish to format currency and dates differently.  This is used mostly for international web sites (Non-US).  The default settings in Web Administration are US - English.  For a list of the acceptable codes, visit www.microsoft.com or consult with your web server administrator.  Since Web Administration was originally designed for US (1033) server environments, support may be limited for Non-US installations.
 
Image Upload:
 
  PDshop has a built in Image upload component, it does not rely on any "DLL's" or server side components.  All images uploaded using this feature will be placed into the "Images" directory on your web server. 

Image to Upload:
To upload images (for use in your products, items, categories, or any of the customizable pages) simply click on the "browse" button.  Locate the image (typically a .GIF, or .JPG file) on your computer and select it.  Next, click on "Upload".  After the file is uploaded to the web server, you should see a preview (thumbnail) image and a confirmation message with the filename.  You can click on the image or filename to see the full sized image. 

If you experience difficulty, or get an error message such as "access denied" than you must check your web server's security permissions.  You must have "write" permission on the "Images" directory in order for this function to work properly.  It may be necessary to contact you web hosting provider if you do not host your own site.

If you are uploading images for use in the store front design (images other than items or categories), and you are using a shared SSL URL that does not point to the same directory as the Non-SSL, it may be necessary to upload images twice.  First, log in to PDAdmin using the SSL link and upload the images.  Next, log in to PDshop Admin using the Non-SSL link and upload the images again.  By doing this, you will be placing a copy of the image in both "images" directories.
 
 
Colors/Text:
 
  PDshop allows you to customize the color scheme and text displayed within the section headings, and menu buttons of the Storefront. 

Colors:
To modify the colors, simply click on the color palette button to the right of each setting.  Choose the color and click okay.  You can also manually enter any HEX color code you wish.  Be creative and make your site stand out! 

Menu Labels:
You can change the text on the menu system to fit your needs.  For instance you can call the Home page "Welcome".  Or, if you don't want to refer to the "featured" items as featured you can call them anything you wish.

Graphics:
You can modify the style of the section heading, by changing this setting different graphics are used to give the desired affect.

Store Sections:
PDshop allows you to customize the section headings.  You can rename them to conform to your company's slogans/themes, etc.  You can also hide the section heading completely by checking the "Hide" box.  This will remove the section heading.  An example:  You would like to use your own graphics... simply remove the heading and then insert your own graphics using the HTML editor.
 
 
Gateways:
 
  A payment gateway is required to process credit cards in real time on the internet.  You can use only one payment processor in Web Administration.  You must set up a merchant account with a bank before using this feature.  Web Administration offers free assistance in setting up your first merchant account.  We have connections, and can get you the best rate.  Contact us for details. 

NOTE: We strongly recommend that you verify the receipt of all payments with your payment processor before shipping goods.

Authorize.NET / RTware:
Authorize.NET / RTware is the leading internet payment processor.  This is the recommended method of authorizing and collecting credit card payments online. 

Enable Authorize.NET / RTware Processing:
Check this button to enable this payment gateway.  To make this completely active in your storefront, you must also "Enable Real-Time Credit Card" processing on the General Setup Page.

Login ID:
Here you must enter your login ID as provided by your merchant services bank. 

Transaction Key:
This is an optional field, but may be required in the future.  See your Authorize.NET / RTware user guide for further instructions.

Currency Code:
Here you must enter the currency code for your country.  The default is USD (U.S. Dollars).  See your Authorize.NET / RTware user guide for further instructions.

Implementation Method:
There are two ways to process credit card payments on the internet.  Select the appropriate button to enable the method you are using.  If you are unsure, contact your merchant services provider.  If you do not have a merchant account, contact Web Administration.

SIM (Simple Integration / formerly known as Weblink)
This method is the replacement for "Weblink", which is soon to be discontinued. SIM is more secure than Weblink yet uses the same type of "Payment Form". Transaction are not handled on your website, but are forwarded to a secure payment form.  After your web shopper completes their payment, they will be returned to your storefront where a receipt  and order thank you message can be displayed.

AIM (Advanced Integration / Direct Response)
This is the most secure and preferred method of processing payments. Credit Cards are authorized on your webserver in real-time. Your customers are not forwarded to any 3rd party Payment Forms. Review all security documentation from Authorize.NET / RTware before utilizing this method. You must have your SSL link enabled to use this feature. 

The AIM method is the most advanced processing.  Web Administration allows for full integration with Authorize.NET & RTware.  With this method, you do not have to verify payments or run reports by logging in to Authorize.NET/RTware.  Web Administration captures authorization codes, and transaction IDs that are created during the payment process.

AIM Authentication Method
This only applies to the AIM method of processing payments.  See your Authorize.NET / RTware user guide for further instructions.

PayPal
If you do not have a merchant account, you may choose to enable this payment gateway.  A PayPal account is required.  Enter the email address you use to login to PayPal.  Select the appropriate currency code.  During checkout, web shoppers will be redirected to the PayPal payment form.  After they complete their payment, they will be returned to your storefront where a receipt  and order thank you message can be displayed.

2Checkout.com
This is another popular payment gateway.  2Checkout.com is a 3rd party merchant services alternative.  To use this gateway, simply enter the SID as provided by 2Checkout.com.  During checkout, web shoppers will be redirected to the 2Checkout payment form.  After they complete their payment, they will be returned to your storefront where a receipt  and order thank you message can be displayed.

WorldPay (Select Junior)
If you do not have a merchant account, you may choose to enable this payment gateway.  A WorldPay account is required.  Enter your installation ID and currency code as provided by WorldPay. During checkout, web shoppers will be redirected to the WorldPay payment form.  After they complete their payment, they will not be returned to your site.  You should configure your WorldPay account to provide them with an emailed receipt.

PayFlow Link
This is another popular payment gateway.  To use this payment gateway, simply enter your login as provided by Verisign/PayFlow.  During checkout, web shoppers will be redirected to the PayFlow Link payment form.  After they complete their payment, they will not be returned to your site.  You should configure your PayFlow account to provide them with an emailed receipt.

PLEASE NOTE: Web Administration does not provide technical support for connectivity issues or account problems with PayPal, 2Checkout.com, Worldpay, or the the PayFlow Link services.
 
Email Setup:
 
  Server Components
PDshop has built in support for the most common Email components used by web servers.  They are: Dimac W3JMail, CDONTS, Persits ASPemail, Dynu Email, or Dundas.  Before configuring the email section of PDshop you should identify which component your web server uses.

Server Email Component:
Select the component that is installed on your web server.

Email / SMTP server:
Enter the email server's name or IP address in this field.  You may need to consult with your email or web provider for this.  You must have a valid server name here, as PDshop forwards all email to your local email server.

Admin Email Address:
Enter the email address of the webmaster, or administrator.  Since many email servers check for valid "From" email addressed, we recommend you use this field.  It is also used for sending test emails.

Order Notification
PDshop will automatically send a "New Order" notification email to two email addresses that you specify.  The email will contain a hyperlink to the new received order.  You must have the above email server components installed for this to work.
 
Notify On:
Check the "Notify On" box if you wish to be notified by email when new orders are received.  Anytime an order is completed, PDshop can automatically generate a notification email.  The email can be sent to up to two persons (two different email addresses).  The email will contain a direct link to the "new" order. 

Sent to:
Here you enter the email address of the person who should receive the notification email.  Example: you@domainname.com  Do not use quotes or names, simply type the email address.

Sent Copy to:
Here you can enter an additional email address of the person who should receive the second notification email.  Example: you@domainname.com  Do not use quotes or names, simply type the email address.  If you only want one email sent, leave this field blank.  Be sure to remove all spaces from this field if you are removing an email address from here

** You can test the email by clicking on "TEST".  A test message will be immediately sent to the appropriate email addresses..

Contact Us
PDshop can be configured to allow web visitors to send an email to you, directly from within your online store.  When enabled, users will see an email form on the contact us page.  They simply fill it out with their name, email address, and a message and click "Submit".  An email is automatically sent to you.
 
Allow Contact Us Email?:
Check this box if you wish to turn on the contact us form.  If this is not checked, users will see "featured" items in place of the contact us form.

Sent to:
Here you enter the email address of the person who should receive the contact us email.  Example: you@domainname.com  Do not use quotes or names, simply type the email address.

Sent Copy to:
Here you can enter an additional email address of the person who should receive the second contact us email.  Example: you@domainname.com  Do not use quotes or names, simply type the email address.  If you only want one email sent, leave this field blank.  Be sure to remove all spaces from this field if you are removing an email address from here

** You can test the email by clicking on "TEST".  A test message will be immediately sent to the appropriate email addresses.

Order Confirmation
PDshop can be configured to automatically send an email to your customer's immediately after they make an online purchase.  This email can be customized by you.
 
Send Email Confirmation?:
Check this box if you wish to turn on the contact us form.  If this is not checked, users will see "featured" items in place of the contact us form.

From Name:
Here you enter the name as it should appear.  Example: YourStore.com

From Email:
Here enter the email address from which the email will seem it came.  Example: you@domainname.com.  Do not use quotes or names, simply type the email address.  This will also be the "reply to" address, if someone replies to this email it will go this address.

Subject?:
Type the subject of the Order confirmation email, Example: YourStore.com Order Confirmation

Email Text:
Type the body of the email here.  Here, you can use the PDshop Order variables.  Variables are built in code words that you type into the body of the email text, Example: "##CUSTNAME##".  When PDshop generates this email at the end of the order process, it will replace the variables with the appropriate information or text.  Below is a list of variables for use in the Order Confirmation:

Order Number, ##ORDERNO##
Customer Name,  ##CUSTNAME##
Current Date, ##DATE##
Order Link, ##ORDERLINK##

The order link is an http link to the order status page.

** You can test the email by clicking on "TEST".  A test message will be immediately sent to the Admin Email address.

Password Recovery
PDshop can be configured to send "Forgotten Passwords" to your customers.  If one of your registered customers (someone who has previously made a purchase online), forgets their password they can request it be sent to them by email.  Customer passwords are recorded during the checkout process, and are required to access the order status page, and when returning to make another purchase.  This is an automated process.
 
Allow Password Recovery?:
Check this box if you wish to enable password recovery.  If you choose not to enable it, web visitors will not see the link to this special page.

From Name:
Here you enter the name as it should appear in the email header.  Example: YourStore.com

From Email:
Here, enter the email address from which the email will seem it came.  Example: you@domainname.com.  Do not use quotes or names, simply type the email address.  This will also be the "reply to" address, if someone replies to this email it will go this address.

Subject?:
Type the subject of the forgotten password email, Example: YourStore.com Password

Email Text:
Type the body of the email here.  Here, you can use the PDshop password variable.  Variables are built in code words that you type into the body of the email text, Example: "##PASSWORD##".  When PDshop generates this email, it will replace the variable with the users password. 

** You can test the email by clicking on "TEST".  A test message will be immediately sent to the Admin Email address.
   
General Setup:
 
  Credit Cards
PDshop can be configured to accept any credit card types.  Under Order Setup you can create an unlimited number of credit card entries.

Featured Items:
Here you can determine how many of the "featured" items will be randomly displayed in the storefront.  To select an item as "featured", select "Yes" as featured in the item details.

Enable Credit Cards:

Check this box to enable credit cards.  When this is enabled users will see the credit card payment form during checkout.  When it is disabled, they will not see the credit card form.

Card Names:
Under the "Card Name" header you will see a list of all credit cards in your database.  To modify the card name, or delete it simply click on edit.  On the Edit card page you will be able to change the name, or delete the card.  To delete, simply check the "Delete this card Type" checkbox, and click Save.  You will be prompted to confirm this.

Add New Card:
You can add additional cards by simply click on "Add New Card". 

Enable real-time payment processing:
By checking this box you can enable the built-in payment processing gateway.  You must first setup your processor on the gateway page under "Advanced".  This enable check box is the on/off switch for payment processing.  If you choose to use a weblink method such as "PayPal" or 2Checkout.com, you do not need to "Enable Credit Cards" above.  (See Gateways for more details)  

Note: A merchant account with a merchant services bank is required if you wish to process credit cards in the traditional fashion.  Web Administration offers free assistance in setting up your first merchant account. 

Pay by Mail
In some cases you may want to allow "Pay by Mail" purchases.  In PDshop, this is handled the same as a credit card order up to the payment page.  If you enable Pay by mail, users will be able to skip the credit card payment form (or won't see it at all if credit cards are disabled).  Next, they will be sent to a special "Thank you for your order Page", which you customize under "Setup/Messages".
 
Enable Pay by Mail:
Check this box to turn on Pay by mail.  Users will have an option, and the ability to bypass the credit card form. 

Inventory
PDshop tracks current inventory for each item automatically.  Each time a shopper purchases an item, the quantity sold is deducted from inventory upon completion of the checkout process.
 
Out of Stock Threshold:
This number determines when "out of stock" messages are displayed.  If you want PDshop to display the message when inventory is low for example, you could set it to a low number such as "5".  This is the cut-off point, if inventory for an item goes below the threshold, the out of stock message is displayed.  This number can be a positive or negative number.

Display Out of Stock Messages:
This is the On/Off switch for the Out of stock message.  When inventory for an item is below the threshold an "out of stock" message can be displayed on the item's detail page.  You can customize this message below.

Message to Display:
This is the text that will appear just below the item's main description. 

Prevent Sale of Out of Stock Items:
By enabling this feature, you can prevent a shopper from purchasing Out of Stock items.  The "Add to Cart" button will not appear when this button is checkec.

Shipping
PDshop can be configured to handle an unlimited number of shipping methods (or carriers).  For each carrier you can specify the shipping rate, and how it is calculated (rate method).
 
Carrier Names:
Under the "Carrier Name" header you will see a list of all carriers in your database.  To modify the carrier, or delete it simply click on edit. 

Edit/Add Carriers: 
There are 3 types of rate methods (three ways that shipping charges will be calculated upon checkout).
1. Actual: this means the rate you enter will be the actual charge for shipping.
2. Estimated: The rate you enter will be displayed to your customers as an "estimate". They will be informed that actual charges will be determined at time of shipping.
3. Determined Later: When you choose this method your customers will not know how much shipping will cost. No rate is displayed. Your customers will see a message indicating that shipping charges will be determined at the "time of shipping".

On the Edit card page you will be able to change the name, rate, rate method, or delete the carrier.  To delete, simply check the "Delete this carrier?" checkbox, and click Save.  You will be prompted to confirm this.

Order Status Codes
PDshop can be configured with an unlimited number of order status codes.  The order status codes are used by you to manage or categorize your orders.  Examples: "New", "Backordered", "Shipped", "Cancelled", etc.  The default code for all new orders is "New".
 
Status Code names:
Under the "Status Code Name" header you will see a list of all Status codes in your database.  To modify the codes, or delete one simply click on edit. 

Edit/Add Status Codes: 
On this page you will be able to change the name, and description of the status code.  To delete, simply check the "Delete this Status code?" checkbox, and click Save.  You will be prompted to confirm this.

Sales Tax
PDshop gives you the ability to decide which orders are taxed, and how.  Sales tax is calculated based on the shipping address giving you the ability to charge a different percentage for different states.  Since tax laws are different in every state you should consult with your Accountant before implementing taxes globally or by state.
 
Global Tax Rate?:
Here you enter the tax percentage you wish to charge per order. The "Global Tax Rate" applies to all orders, unless you create an entry for a specific state (see State Taxes).

State Taxes:
If wish to create a tax rule for an individual state, click on "State Taxes" while on the Order Setup page.  On the State Taxes page you will see a list of all states in your database.  To add a state simply click on "Add New State".  When you enter enter a state, all orders shipped to that state will use the rate you entered, overriding the global tax.

Here is a typical tax example:
Let's say you want to charge tax in your own state only:
1. Enter 0% in the "Global Tax" field.
2. Add your state, and enter your tax percentage in the "Tax Rate" field.

** The state "drop down" lists used on forms during the checkout process, is not affected by any changes here.  To modify the state, or country drop down list you must edit the files called "statelist.asp" and "countrylist.asp" under the "includes" directory.

Next Order Number
PDshop allows you to set the "next order number".  The is the number that will be assigned to the next order received. The number will automatically increment by 1 after each order.
   
HTML Editor/Text Setup:
 
  Web Administration has a built-in HTML/content editor.  There are two ways to edit content using the editor in PDAdmin:

1. While in the Category or Item setup pages, you can click on "Edit" just above the Description.

2. From the menu in PDAdmin, select Setup\HTML editor.  You will see a list of sections/areas in PDshop that you can modify.

Store Name:
You must include the name of your online store.  This field should not be more than 25 characters.

Website Page Title:
This is the "Title" meta tag that is placed in the HTML "head" tag of each web page. You should keep the length under 70 characters.

Site Description:
This is the "Description" meta tag that is placed in the HTML "head" tag of each web page.  The site description should brief (no more than 255 characters) and an accurate description of your online store.

Search Engine Keywords:
This is the "Keywords" meta tag that is written into the HTML "head" tag of each web page.  Here you can enter keywords that you think web surfers would search for at a search engine when looking for your site.  Keywords may be a single word or multiple-word phrases. The keywords should be separated by commas.  You should not exceed 255 characters).

Top banner:

This is the grey area at the top of each storefront page, just above the menu in the storefront.  The banners have a neutral "grey" background  (hex color code #CCCCCC).  If inserting images, they should not exceed 700 pixels in width.

Bottom banner:
This is the grey area at the bottom of each storefront page, just below the text menu.  The banners have a neutral "grey" background (hex color code #CCCCCC). If inserting images, they should not exceed 700 pixels in width.

Logo/Slogan:
A logo, slogan, or any text or graphics can be place at the very top of each storefront page.  The logo/slogan will appear above the Top banner.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 700 pixels in width.

Welcome Message:
The text or messages you enter here will appear on the Home (or "welcome") page.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 225 pixels in width.

In the News:
The text or messages you enter here will appear on the Home (or "welcome"), Contact Us, and Category pages.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 225 pixels in width.

Checkout Help:
The checkout help appears on each of the "checkout" related pages.  Here is a good place to state your policies and procedures related to the checkout process, or any other last minute information.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 225 pixels in width.

Feature Message:
The features message appears on the "Features" page.   Here is a good place to discuss what makes the "featured" items so special.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 225 pixels in width.

Order Status Page:
The text, message, or graphics you enter here will appear on the "Order Status" page.  When customers are returning to your site to check their order status, they will see this in the left column.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 225 pixels in width.

Order Thanks (credit card):
If you have "enabled" credit cards, this text or graphics will be displayed upon completion of the checkout process.  Here you can insert the PDshop Order Number variable ("##ORDERNO##") or the Customer Number variable ("##CUSTNO##").  When your customer goes to this page, the variables will be replaced with either their order number or customer number.  Beneath this message will appear a "View Order" button.  Customers can click it to view their order details.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 350 pixels in width.

Order Thanks (Pay by mail):
If you have "enabled" Pay by Mail, this text or graphics will be displayed upon completion of the checkout process.  Here you can insert the PDshop Order Number variable ("##ORDERNO##") or the Customer Number variable ("##CUSTNO##").  When your customer goes to this page, the variables will be replaced with either their order number or customer number.  This field should be used to give instructions for mailing payment.  Beneath this message will appear a "View Order" button.  Customers can click it to view their order details.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 350 pixels in width.

Contact Us:
The Contact Us field appears on the "Contact Us page.   Here is a good place to indicate how web visitors can reach you.  If you have enabled the contact us email form, you should also tell them what information to include on the form.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 225 pixels in width.

Order Header:
The Order Header field appears on the Order Summary (or order view) page.  It is positioned in the upper right corner.  This is where you would place your logo or company address and any other relevant information.  If inserting images, they should not exceed 250 pixels in width.

Order Footer:
The Order Footer field appears on the Order Summary (or order view) page.  It is positioned on the very bottom.  This is where you would place return policies, thank you's, or any other notes.

   
Category Setup:
 
  Categories
PDshop can be configured to have an unlimited number of categories, and sub categories.  From the main menu in PDAdmin, choose from "Show All" or "Add Category".

If you click on "Show All" you will see a category "tree", listing all top level categories alphabetically.  Beneath the top level category, will be any subcategories.  You can click on either to edit the category.

Category Name:
The category name should be short, one or two words.  It can be up to 25 characters in length.  You cannot use the following characters: "\" ":" "/"

Parent Category:
The "Parent" category field is used to designate sub categories.  If you want to create a sub category simply create a new category.  Then, specify a "Parent" category by using the drop-down list.  If you are creating a top-level category, leave the "Parent" category field blank.  Later, if you decide to change a sub category to a top-level category, select the horizontal line from the drop down list and "Save".  This will remove the Parent category.

Short Description:
The short description appears on the "Categories" page, and on the "Item" detail page.  The "Categories page is accessible from the main menu in the storefront.  It will list all categories, their immediate sub-category, and your short description.  You should keep the length to a minimum as it may make for a long "Categories" page.

Detailed Description:
The detailed description is edited using the built-in "HTML" editor.  This gives you unlimited formatting controls over text and you can even insert images.  This description appears on the "Category" detail page (users will be taken to it whenever they click on a category from within the store). 

NOTE: It should be noted that it is not necessary to have items in a category.  You can use the category pages to display any text or graphics, with our without items.  This gives you the ability to create an unlimited number of pages in your website.  (Example: you might want to create pages such as, "about the company", or "calendar of events", etc.)
   
Item Setup:
 
  Items
PDshop can be configured to with an unlimited number of items.  From the main menu in PDAdmin  under "Items", you can select "Show All" to view all items.  There are also a few shortcuts to "Sale" and "Featured" items.  At any time you can use the search feature to locate items by number, or name.  To create new items, click on "Add Item".

Item No (Sku):
The item number field is required for each item.  You should keep it short (8 characters if possible), as long item numbers will adversely affect the layout (the look) of many of the category pages.

Name:
The item name should be kept short as well, although there is no set limit to it's length.

Category:
You must assign a category for each item.  Use appropriate categories for your items, keeping in mind you have as many categories as you wish.

Active:
You must choose "Yes" in this field to make the item visible in your storefront.  You can use this to turn items on and off as needed.  Example: out of stock items can be made inactive by choosing "No".

Featured:
Featured items are normal items, in regular categories, that you wish to give extra promotion (perhaps hot sellers, or sale items).  Items that are flagged as "featured" appear on the "features" page which is accessible from the main menu in the storefront.  They are also randomly displayed on the home/welcome page, as well as on other pages throughout the store.  To enable, simply select "Yes".

Price:
This is the default, regular price per item (each).  It appears throughout the storefront, but can be made invisible by checking the "Hide Price" checkbox.

Sale Price:
The sale price is only used when you select "Yes" in the "On Sale?" field.  When an item is placed on sale the sale price will appear below the regular price (which will have a line drawn thru it.)

On Sale:
This field simply enables, disables the sale price.  Check "Yes" to place an item on sale.

Hide Price:
PDshop allows you to hide (conceal) prices.  When you check this checkbox the price (including sale price) is hidden from your web visitors.  Also, the "Buy Now" button is removed.  This is useful if you wish to have items that are catalog only (not for sale).  Or, you can use this if an item is out of stock.

Default Qty:
This field is used to designate the default "add to cart" quantity.  If you leave it blank, it will automatically be set to one (1).

Current Inventory:
Current inventory can be viewed while editing an item.  Each time a customer purchases an item in your online store, inventory is adjusted accordingly.  To make changes to the current inventory, simply click on the "Edit" button located next to the inventory number.  After you enter the new inventory total, save your changes.

Short Description:
The short description appears on the "Category" detail page.  It should be kept relatively short, as a very long short description will lead to very long Category pages.

Detailed Description:
The detailed description is edited using the built-in HTML editor, which provides unlimited formatting options.  To edit the description, click on the "edit" button.  You can insert additional images or graphics into the description, creating a professional brochure like item page.  The detailed description has no length limitations, however if you are inserting images, they should not exceed 350 pixels in width.

Hide Heading:
By checking the "Hide Heading" box, you can hide the Name, Price, and Large Image from your store front.

Item Options:
Each item in Web Administration can have up to 3 different sets of options.  Each option set can have an unlimited number of values (or choices).  For example: Your item may come in several sizes, as well as many colors.  I n this example, you would use Option A as your size, and Option B as your colors. When your shoppers buy this item, they be able to choose from the option values.

To enable options on an item check the "Enable Option" box.  Type a very short description or heading for the set of options, Ex. "Choose a Size".  To create option values, click on "New".  You can now enter a value, along with any price or weight adjustments.  Ex. "Extra Large".  To make price adjustments, choose either "Add" or "Subtract" and enter the dollar amount.  Upon checkout, when a shopper buys this item the price and weight will be adjusted according to their selection.


Thumbnail (small) Image:
The thumbnail, or small image, appears on the "Category" detail, "Features", and search pages.  The image is automatically resized to 40 pixels wide, regardless of the size.  You can enter the filename of any image that is located in the "images" directory on your webserver (Example: picture.jpg).  Do not use "/" or "\" characters in the filename, you cannot change the directory by doing this.

Large Image:
The large image appears on the "Item" detail page.  You can enter the filename of any image that is located in the "images" directory on your webserver (Example: picture.jpg).  Do not use "/" or "\" characters in the filename, you cannot change the directory by doing this.  We recommend that your image should not be larger than 150 pixels in width as it might crowd the page.  (For images larger than 150 pixels, you should insert them in the detailed description field with the HTML editor).

Note: It is also used when items are "featured", it appears as a smaller (resized) version when the item is randomly displayed.

Resize Large Image:
In some cases, your large image might exceed the recommended width or may be too small to fill the page.  If you check the resize image checkbox, PDshop will automatically resized the large image to 150 pixels.
   
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