Zen Cart
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Zen Cart Requirements

Zen Cart is a free, open source shopping cart application. Here are some things that you will need to make it work for you.

• Internet Access: This is obvious, but some rural areas do have limitations in terms of web access. A high-speed connection of some variety is definitely preferable when uploading images, etc.
• Computer Skills: Basic computer skills are essential but you don't need to know how to program to use Zen Cart. It is a Content Management System (CMS) with a backend Admin program that allows you to manage the site with simple dropdown menus, etc. If you do know some basic html coding, you will be able to make your page content a bit fancier, but it is not essential.
• Web Host: You will need a web host that supports Zen Cart. If you already have a website, you should check to see if it supports Zen Cart. If so we can try that since it is usually a free install. If it works, fine. If not, we can try another web host such as Hostmonster.com. Either way, to do the install I will need access to your hosting account (username and password) and the name of your hosting company. If you already have a website on the hosting server, it is always a best practice to back up everything before doing this kind of install. You can purchase a web hosting plan for a few dollars per month. I prefer Hostmonster.com as I have installed several Zen Cart with them and gotten excellent service. They typically require a one year hosting plan committment but will refund on a prorated basis if you are unhappy with the arrangement. Be sure to ask about this policy before buying a web hosting plan.
• Internet Domain: Your site will need an address URL such as myfarm.com. You may be able to nest your Zencart within an existing site with its own domain. Most people end up getting a domain for the Zen Cart. This usually runs between $10 - $15 per year. Some web hosting companies (such as Hostmonster) provide a free domain with the web hosting plan.
• Graphics: Do you have a logo, graphics, or color scheme? Product photos are useful if you choose to include those in your product descriptions (but you don't have to). Please provide me with whatever graphics you may have before installation.
• Page Content: Information about your business operation, history, philosophy, etc is appropriate and can easily be incorporated into your Zen Cart.  Or we can link directly to existing web site content if you have that available.
• Taxes: Do you need to charge sales tax? Or any other taxes or charges on each order? Please check this out and provide me with details before I do the installation.
• Pickup Locations: If you operate a farm business using the Buying Club model, you will probably have established Pickup Locations (or drop sites, or whatever you call them).  Please review the Pickup Locations page and provide me with a list of your Pickup Locations.
• PayPal Account: If you choose to accept PayPal payments for your orders, you will need to set up a PayPal account.  A Premier account will usually suffice for most online sales, but you can also look into the Business account option if you think that may be helpful to you.