Model #s on existing products

It's me again. I did a search and didn't find the answer I was looking for. I would like to change the model numbers on all my products, the system I am currently using just isn't working for me, when a customer writes regarding a specific product. So, I have come up with a new and I hope better way to keep track of my products. All my products are downloadable, so keeping alist of zip files with products is very important.

Ok my question, Can I change the model numbers on the current products without preventing customers who have already purchased the product from being able to download it again if needed.

I learned the hard way that changing the zip file name didn't change the name in already processed orders, I caused myself quite the mess :blush:

Thank you again for all your help. I can only hope to find that occasional post where I actually know the answer and be able to help someone in return. :D

Technically, the MODEL NUMBER is a key identifier of a product. In a Bricks-and-mortar shop, this number is called a SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) and lives and dies with the product.

If you change your Model Numbers (product codes, sku's) then what you are saying is that the original product no longer exists.

You are probably correct in thinking that purchasers of the product with the ORIGINAL model numbers will not be able to download the products in future, if you change the model numbers.

So, here's an idea.

(With your store in maintenance mode...)

Create a DUPLICATE set of products, assigning the NEW Model Numbers where appropriate.

KEEP all the existing product data (with the OLD model numbers) and put them in a separate category (any name you like).

Then, download and install the hidden categories module:-

http://www.zen-cart.com/index.php?main_page=product_contrib_info&products_id=391

Once installed, HIDE your new category completely.

Now, your products with their ORIGINAL model numbers are still in your store - but completely hidden from view, and cannot be purchased...

... but can still be downloaded by people who bought them under the existing SKU.

As much as I hate to disagree with my friend schoolboy, it looks to me that the model number is just a string associated with the product, same as the description. The product id is the key identifier, so if you changed the model number, as long as your customers weren't searchng for the download using the model number, it shouldn't hurt anything to change them.

I agree with stevesh
The product_id is the autoincrement value in the database and is the core identifier for the product. The model number is irrelevant and can be changed or deleted at will, otherwise it would be a *required field for the product to function.

JOhn ><>

Thank you all very much. Man I broke out in a cold sweat thinking I had to copy and hide my catagories LOL I am happy to be able to sign on to admin LOL :blush:

I will create a test account (should have thought of this before bothering you all) and place an order. Then go and change the model numbers and see if I can still download my product.

Thank you again :smile: