In recent years there has been a dramatic increase in dynamic, database-controlled websites, following the ease of use provided by internet specific languages like ASP and PHP.
PHP in particular interfaces extremely well with the popular MySQL database, which is widely used on the internet, particularly on Linux servers. This has enabled site owners to provide dynamic content on demand to their web pages, empowering them to add, change, delete and update the content of their websites at any time they wish.
At the heart of a database controlled website is at least one database, although several different databases feeding a single website are not uncommon. The database is normally accessed via an online admin or database centre, enabling the site owner to access the database to make changes or add new content at any time 24/7.
The database itself may be split into several different tables, each providing content for different features on the website. These can include:
Web page content
News or Blog content
Forthcoming Events
Classified Ads
PDF Brochures
Article Management
Shopping Cart Products
Customer details
Employee & Staff details
Health & Safety Checks & Procedures
The list of possible features and content is virtually endless.
Probably one of the most powerful features of a database controlled website is the fact that as soon as a change is made and confirmed in the database, it will be visible on the website.
But if you have content that is not for public consumption or limited to specific customers or members of staff, that isn't a problem. Access to the information can be infinitely restricted to specific user groups depending on your requirements. Some data may be restricted solely to senior management, with limited access being spread down the chain of command if required.
Some data from the same source may be displayed publicly online, with other data being restricted to registered customers or dedicated user groups.
Databases tend to be at the heart of almost all online shopping carts these days, and are widely used in blogs, article management and social media.
WebLink4u will be pleased to discuss your online database requirements and provide recommendations based on your specific circumstances.
