Using configuration files

[jayc]

I'm building a little web project but want it configurable so that it can be used across all different websites and such. For example, they may decide to turn on one feature, define certain aspects about it, etc. I plan on using Smarty templates and CSS so that the display can be easily separated. However, what I can't figure out is a way to have it easily customizeable. Right now I'm thinking of going the XML route. However, what I am concerned about is that every page would have to create an XML parser object, load the configuration file, then decide what it should or shouldn't display based on what they want. Is this an ideal way to go about it, or am I missing a better Big Picture? Thanks for any thoughts or insights.

[hermand]

If you're looking at a huge config, it may be nice to have a wee MySQL table and a proper user interface. If its just basic stuff, slap a config.php into the root folder, and tell everything that needs it, just to include it.

[theeper]

Why not make a file called config.php and put all your variables in it, IE...

<?php
$variable1="something";
$variable2="something else";
?>

Then include it where you need it.

[jayc]

Right now it's at 95 lines. Plus, things are nested, making it more appealing to use XML. Plus, I think it would be easier to build an interface around it if I wanted to (to edit settings, etc.). Guess I'll just play around and see what works out the best. Thanks. 🙂