Multiple carts, copy or duplicate database?

[jtlmusic]

I'm building multiple stores using Zen Cart. Initially, all of the stores will contain the same products. However, in the future, some stores will want to include optional products that the others don't have.

Several questions:

1. Is it possible to connect multiple Zen Carts to one database?
2. Is it possible to duplicate a database to use with different Zen Carts?

Thank you for your assistance!

[kobra]

1. Is it possible to connect multiple Zen Carts to one database?

Yes, and to make management workable, there is a multi site 3rd party module - - Some have mastered it's setup buit the thread is long and I believe abandoned by the author

2. Is it possible to duplicate a database to use with different Zen Carts?

This is fully possible and you will end up with multiple stores, DB's and orders from each

[g1smd]

If you duplicate the database, how will you keep track of how many are left in stock when another of your sites sells the same item?

[kobra]

If you duplicate the database, how will you keep track of how many are left in stock when another of your sites sells the same item?

While the OP did not specify, most that dropship do not have or track stock

[g1smd]

This is very true.

However I often see people implementing stuff before they have thought out what it is they really want it to do.

[kobra]

However I often see people implementing stuff before they have thought out what it is they really want it to do.

BACKUP! BACKUP! BACKUP! BACKUP!
Before embarking on any mod install both files and the DB so you can revert back if it becomes a mess

Actually better to have a test site to practice on first

[jtlmusic]

kobra,

You mentioned that it is possible to copy the database, or link multiple stores to one database. However, you didn't post any instructions on how to do it.

More info:
I have a potential of around 50 stores. Most will just sell the "stock" products, so the actual product line would be the same. However, the storefront (logos, graphics, ads, etc.) will be different for each. I would want to link these stores to the same product database.

Some stores will want some different products, in addition to the "stock" ones. In that case, I would need to duplicate the main database, then make some adjustments, as needed.

Each store will start with around 1000 products.

Thanks for your help!

[kobra]

You mentioned that it is possible to copy the database, or link multiple stores to one database. However, you didn't post any instructions on how to do it.

I actually did and you can find the multi site module in the free software addons section - - - link above left

Copying the DB is in the tutorials/FAQ's section - - link above right and something that you should consult often

I searched it for "copy database"

https://www.zen-cart.com/tutorials/i...hp?article=103

[g1smd]

I have a potential of around 50 stores!

I never understand why people want to run 50 sites instead of one. It's a lot more work. Google also takes a dim view of this sort of stuff. They usually call it 'spam'; they'll not want to list all of those sites. As a searcher, I'd not want to find 50 sites owned by one same company; I'd want to see diversity of supplier. That's Google's intent too.