April 30, 2013

Top 5 Tech Terms

Filed under: Uncategorized — Ashley Zimmerman @ 10:56 am

Don’t get lost in tech lingo! If you have a great new site idea or just want to bring your existing business online, it may be difficult to grasp some concepts without knowing specific terms. Don’t let this cause you frustration! By becoming familiar with just a few key definitions, you can feel more confident in the process and developing your site.

PHP – PHP is probably the most popular scripting language on the web used to enhance web pages. By using PHP, programmers can create username and password login pages, check details from a form, create forums, picture galleries, surveys, and liven up websites. The most popular explanation of just what PHP stands for is “Hypertext Pre-processor”. So why isn’t it HPP instead of PHP? The initials come from the earliest version of the program, which was called Personal Home Page Tools.  PHP is open source, runs on different platforms (Windows, Linux, Unix, Mac OS X, etc.) and is compatible with nearly all servers.

MYSQL – A computer “database”  is a collection of data. Specialized database software, like MySQL, are just programs that allow you store and retrieve data as efficiently as possible. If you think of it in comparison to Microsoft Access, MySQL is what holds all the tables while PHP acts as your field or question. Your forms are basically web pages with fields in them. With PHP and MySQL combined, you can create truly impressive websites.

OPEN SOURCE – Open source software means that the source code used to create a website is open and available to the public. While many programs are encrypted and do not allow for modification, iScripts offers completely open software. This means you can purchase the software and edit it at any point in the future. You may use our customization services, your own PHP programmer or edit the code yourself if you know the PHP programming language.

CONTROL PANEL – After purchasing the open source PHP/MySQL software, it will be installed on a server. This is your web host (like GoDaddy, BlueHost or various other providers). A control panel is a web-based interface provided by your hosting company. By logging into and accessing your control panel, you can manage your websites and services in a single place. To get your website up and running, you will need to install the software by logging into your Control Panel (or cPanel). If you would like iScripts to install the software for you, we will require your cPanel login details to access your account and get it set up so that you can bypass any additional hassle.

IP ADDRESS/DOMAIN/URL – What is the difference between these terms?
IP Addresses – An IP (Internet Protocol), is an identifier which sends and receives information across the Internet. It is made of 4 octets consisting of 32 numbers between 0 and 255, separated by periods. Whenever you are browsing the web or sending an email, an IP address (assigned to your computer) is required. URLs and Domains – A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is a distinct web address on the Internet for a web page. It is easy for humans to remember URLs but the computer cannot “understand” this format.  For example, the URL or domain of a web page may be www.xyz.com, and its IP address 123.456.789.011.
The internet uses the Domain Name System to convert a URL to an IP address.

If you have any specific questions or feel that there are additional terms causing some confusion, give us a call at (800) 569 – 5538 or email sales@iscripts.com

Ask us your questions and we can tell you how it relates to your website and online business.

April 29, 2013

New Product Release: iScripts NetMenus

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , , , , , , , — Ashley Zimmerman @ 3:08 pm

Create an online multi-restaurant ordering system that really delivers! The food court software enables your users to complete orders for takeout, delivery, catering and even make reservations with participating restaurants and feature menus.

When a website is created with iScripts NetMenus, the users of that site will be able to search restaurants based upon location, place reservations for dine-in and orders for takeout or delivery. Catering menus may be provided through the site to highlight establishments that offer catering services.  Site owners may accept payments by credit card or cash on delivery based on restaurant preferences.

The software is distributed with full source code (like all other iScripts products) that enables users to customize and adapt the software as needed. Key features of iScripts NetMenus includes easy menu importation, Google Maps integration, user ability to create custom pizzas and a customer order history.   A more thorough listing of features is available here.

“It is important for smaller players in the industry to compete with larger players in terms of efficiency and management.  We have created this  script with input from a number of different types of businesses in the industry. This enabled as to create software flexible enough to meet the needs of your business the way you want to run it.” said Aji Abraham, founder and CEO of iScripts.com.

Pair the iScripts NetMenus script with an open source mobile app like the GizmoPlay Restaurant Menu, and you have a ready-made duo you can brand to make all your own!
For more information, contact us at 1-(800)-569-5538 or sales@iscripts.com

netmenus

Customer Spotlight: Swapit Shopit

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , , , — Ashley Zimmerman @ 2:34 pm

After looking for trading websites and coming up short in their search, Jason and Michelle decided to start their own swapping site. Swapit Shopit is dedicated to helping users interested in trading and bargain deals.  Instead of listing items for sale without a response, users can take advantage of the site’s free listings in order to trade cars, vans, motorbikes, books and even houses.

Even after some minor modification work, Jason and Michelle are thrilled that they were able to start their own site at affordable price using iScripts eSwap.  Since they didn’t have to spend a fortune to create the platform, they can now set themselves up for success by focusing more attention and funds on marketing and gaining users.

Want to see more examples? View websites listed by additional customers within our customer showcase.

swapitshopit

Now Available: iScripts eSwap Quick Start Guide

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , , , , , — Ashley Zimmerman @ 1:33 pm

Need more information on iScripts eSwap? Browse through the new eSwap Quick Start Guide to learn how to quickly set up your site and operate your own bartering and swapping website.
iScripts eSwap enables users to swap any unwanted items from their home or business to others who may have use for them. Users can create a wish list, post items for swap or sale using currency and/or a built-in points system.  Site administrators can charge users listing fees, success fess, featured item fees and even incorporate an optional escrow service.  Credit card payments are handled through Authorize.net and PayPal along with additional offline payment methods supported by the system. iScripts eSwap supports an unlimited number of users, categories and products.  The software contains one-click featured products, free or paid registration, templates and much more!

For more information visit the eSwap product page or see the live demo.

quickstartguide

March 26, 2013

Take Advantage of Your Mobile Options with iScripts

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , , , , , , , , — Ashley Zimmerman @ 10:41 am

iScripts software is flexible in many ways.  Mobile is no exception.

Regardless of the script you choose to utilize for your business, you can be rest-assured that your site will be compatible in any browser on any mobile device.  There are no limitations to what your viewers can see.

While many sites operate the mobile arena by giving users limited choices, your customers will be able to view any and all pages of your site while performing the same actions they would have access to from a computer.  iScripts ensures you can stay competitive and keep up with technology by offering your customers everything your site has to offer without limitations.

If you would like to expand mobile options for your site, you can also consider creating a custom mobile app.  Even though this may sound intimating to some, it is really not that difficult to create an app if you use a white-label version.  As some of you may already know, iScripts recently acquired GizmoPlay.com.  If you take a look at the site, you can see a variety of customizable apps to take advantage of.  Through GizmoPlay, iScripts offers exciting and innovative apps designed for lead capture, in-app sales, market research and more.

Give your company the freedom and flexibility to launch an app without the headache of design and development. Get all the benefits of having an app and none of the risk or expense involved in developing from scratch.  For more information, take a look at the prefabricated apps in the catalog and/or give us a call at 1-(800)-569-5538 to discuss your specific needs in detail.

Failing to Plan = Planning to Fail

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , , , — Ashley Zimmerman @ 9:36 am

Why do small businesses fail?  As we know, all businesses are different, but there are a few similarities when it comes to businesses with a short life span. On the other hand, if you start your business factoring in these key points, you’ll have a better chance at entrepreneurial success:

Lack of Planning
Business success is not possible without careful and strategic planning.  All businesses need a business plan.  Many small businesses fail because of fundamental shortcomings in planning.  This should be a realistic plan based on educated projections derived from accurate data.

Know Your Target Market
Some people put up a website, put up a bunch of ads, join communities and affiliate programs and submit their website to the top 800 search engines.  Now what? Don’t just sit there!  Websites that have a wide variety of products and services with nothing in common will have a hard time selling.  It is imperative to define and focus on a target market so that your visitors will be compelled to buy.

Acquire Traffic
Your website will not be found if you do not take action.  The internet does not bring customers to you. Without website traffic, your site is dead. You must take every step possible in order to attract visitors to your site in order to make sales. If you are receiving 5-6 visitors a day, you make traffic generation a priority.  Think of a brick and mortar business.  How many visitors need to come through the door to make sales? Apply the same mentality to your website traffic.

Poor Management
If you do not have relevant business and management experience, it may be harder for you to handle aspects of the business as well as others, if you have additional employees.  Recognize your weaknesses and work on them to improve.  Do not neglect important factors such as your target market and creating a work environment that encourages productivity.  Never disregard or neglect studying your market even after your business has been established.  This is critical to stay afloat in your industry.

This is Not a Hobby
If you do not take your own business seriously, who else will?  If this is a side hobby for you, you probably won’t accomplish very much. How do you operate your business?  When you work on it, does it depend on what else is going o it life or if you would rather do something else for that day?  Serious business owners schedule time for their business.  If you begin your startup this way, you can still change it.  Just don’t expect to get more out of your site than you put in yourself.

Lack of Passion & Stamina
Will your product or service fulfill a real need? If you strongly believe in your product and what it can do for others, you will be in a good position to take it on. If you are starting your business for the wrong reasons, it probably won’t make it for the long haul.  Do you have the energy it takes to face challenges and take responsibility for what lies ahead? Drive, determination, patience and a positive attitude can go a long way.  If you view mistakes as lessons to succeed rather than failures, it will help you immensely.

Have questions about keeping your business on track?

Take advantage of the information we provide to you in our blog as well as our free online courses or call us at 1-800-569-5538 to discuss your specific concerns or online business needs.

March 25, 2013

Customer Spotlight: Handmade in Michigan

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , , , , , , — Ashley Zimmerman @ 3:37 pm

mimade

Terry Mickelson, owner of Handmade in Michigan,  used iScripts MultiCart to create his Etsy-like website with over 2800 products (and growing).  The site is full of original products made from over 175 artists within the state of Michigan, selling products from within their own home.

There are no fees to become a seller on Terry’s site.  Terry allows his users to simply register as a seller and upload products.  There is no charge until an item is sold, at which time a 5% commission is applied before profit is applied to a seller’s PayPal account.

Terry wanted to ensure his site design was unique, so he opted for a customization.  Check out our Website Design Services and let us know if you would like to customize your site design like Terry!

Create a Site Like Shopify or Volusion Using iScripts GoStores

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , , , , , , , — Ashley Zimmerman @ 2:34 pm

gostorepic

iScripts GoStores allows you to offer customers the ability to create an online store without too much investment or hassle.   This is similar to the services offered and business models instilled by Shopify.com and Volusion.com. Your customers will not be required to buy or maintain a server, which eliminates a lot of expense.  The software package includes everything you need to get started including templates and built-in functionality.

  • One-Click Installer – Complete the entire installation process within a single click. No waiting, calling, cross-checking or techie talk to work through.
  • Trial Period Functionality – Offer instant gratification to your customers by offering a trial run of your service. This functionality is built into the system to encourage quick sign-up.
  • GoDaddy Integration – The world’s largest domain name registrar has been added so that you may give your site users increased options and credibility.
  • Enhanced Templates and Dashboards – The Admin panel has been revamped to include detailed graphs and fusion charts. Choose from various templates while allowing your users to select from a wider range of site designs.
  • Additional Payment Gateways – Offer payment options through a wide variety of gateways such as WorldPay and Paypal Express.
  • Advanced Management Features – Easily add and manage features, website content, custom banners and plans as the site administrator.
  • PCI Compliance – PCI requirements apply to all organizations or merchants, regardless of size or number of transactions, that accepts, transmits or stores any cardholder data.

Want to try it yourself? See all the new and existing features you will receive by trying the LIVE DEMO.

All that’s needed besides the iScripts GoStores is your own domain and hosting plan.  Simply install the software on your server, add your own logo, and additional branding and you are ready to receive monthly recurring revenue from each user.
Need custom website changes or have questions? Please call 1-(800)-569-5538 or send an email to sales@iscripts.com you require any more information or custom changes and receive a reasonably priced quote as soon as possible.

Choosing Your Domain & Hosting Provider

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , , , , — Ashley Zimmerman @ 12:59 pm

If you already know which script you would like to purchase to start your business, there are a couple things you will need to have set in place first.
1. Your Domain
2. A Hosting Provider

When choosing your domain, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Keep it Short & Creative
    Your domain name should be easy to pronounce, spell and remember. If too many words are in your domain name, it could be very hard to remember and worse yet, if a competitor has a similar domain, they could wind up there instead! It’s best to stay creative by combining words, creating completely new words or blending two words together. This will make your domain brandable. Once customers are exposed to your site or name, they will be more likely to remember it.
  • .COM
    This is the most popular top-level domain. Although it may be hard to find one that is available, do not opt for .net, .info, etc unless you are out of the country. In that case, you can use domain names ending in co.uk or similar.
  • Searchable Terms
    If you are concerned about search engines naturally picking up your site and plan onto rely heavily on keywords, try to use phrases and words that are searched within your industry. What information are your customers searching for? What word could you incorporate into your domain name? This is not guaranteed to produce instant success, but based upon your keywords, marketing, niche and competitors, it may play a role in increasing your search engine ranking.

After choosing your domain, you should select a hosting provider and plan. Our scripts work well with a variety of companies and hosting packages. Listed below are some of our recommended hosts. A large number of our customers also use GoDaddy and some even have their own servers. If you would like to choose another company, be sure to refer to the “Requirements” page of your chosen script and speak to the hosting provider to ensure the plan you choose will support the script.
Do you have another host to recommend? Let us know your favorite!

NewbieSite.com – NewbieSite is a cost effective web hosting company for most iScripts products. If you are hosting any scripts other than (SocialWare/VisualCaster) you can use the PRO Hosting account. For Visualcaster/SocialWare you will need FFMpeg hosting account. If you are hosting with NewbieSite we will install your script free of cost.

GreenGeeks.com – GreenGeeks is a green energy web hosting provider service provider from California. GreenGeeks servers support all iScripts products except iScripts SocialWare and iScripts VisualCaster. You can use the coupon code iScripts20 to get $20 off from the hosting pricing for iScripts customers.

HostUpon – Finding web hosting differs from finding reliable web hosting. Individuals and small-to medium-sized businesses rely on their services to be online, cost-effective, and secure. They monitor their server 24 hours a day 7 days a week. They guarantee 99.9% uptime and will strive to provide quality hosting with reliability being a great priority. Regarding Customer Support, this is where they differ from the rest! Being customers themselves they know how frustrating it can be to speak with someone when you need it most. Their core business is based on support. With real people and no outsourcing!

JumpLine - Offers feature rich shared hosting, virtual private servers and powerful dedicated servers. iScripts.com customers receive one full year of FREE hosting ( Jumpline shared/VDS) services with the purchase of any web software from iScripts. After purchasing the script, please click on the link above to get one year FREE hosting from Jumpline.com. Jumpline servers do not support FFMpeg. So they cannot be used for iScripts VisualCaster or iScripts SocialWare with video upload feature. It would work fine if video upload feature is not require on SocialWare.

PacificHost – PacificHost offers cPanel Website Hosting and cPanel Reseller Hosting services. Our commitment to offering a quality and feature-rich hosting service separates us from the pack. Our combined offer of 24×7x365 Award Winning Support, 99.9% Uptime Guarantee and 30 day Money Back Guarantee help to certify our hosting services as nothing but the best.

Cirtexhosting.com – Cirtex Hosting is an affordable solution for hosting iScripts products. Their servers can support all of iScripts products including FFMpeg hosting for iScripts SocialWare and Visualcaster. Cirtex offers both shared and virtual servers.

How to Add Categories in MultiCart [VIDEO]

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , , , , , — Ashley Zimmerman @ 11:33 am

So you purchased the multi-vendor shopping cart, iScripts MultiCart, and you’re ready to go.  Great!

So where do you start?

Before listing products, you will need to create your product categories.  Categories allow your users to locate products easier.  Create your own unlimited amount of categories.

Watch our video and follow the steps to set up categories on your website!

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