Dynamic Content PHP

rm_aaren

I work for a design company as an intern doing strictly design, however, I'd like to learn PHP for my own personal use. I really don't want to look like a complete moron at work, so I ask if you all may help me before I jump into the PHP ocean.

I'd just like to know where I should start with setting up dynamic content. Meaning, a site that has variables or something of the sort, where the webmaster can log in and change content from a panel of some sort. Maybe I'm jumping into this too quickly, but I've already taken C++ and other languages that make reading php understandable. Any information you have to help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all in advance!

Aaren H.

_theworks

Well there is more than one way of implementing dynamic content into your site either using a flatfile database which can range from text files and folders to XML or the more sort after method of using MYSQL...

one thing you should consider before jumping into this project is the structure of which your dynamic content is going to be stored.

rm_aaren

Something simple would do me best right now. The structure should be kept simple. I'm only going to want to be able to edit titles, body content, and simple things like that. I'd like to have a login panel where people can login to edit these titles and body contents as well. Thanks for the quick reply.

bodzan

... PHP/MySQL combination is the best way to do it... BUT in order for you to do it you need to understand both and that could make it too hard for starters... However, functionalities that can be developed with these two are unparalel to any other solution...

I would recommend using MySQL database because in every future use of PHP you will find it the only way of developing things and it is not so hard to learn... Also, on this site you have a whole forum devoted to PHP/MySQL solutions and problems so people will help you learn it much faster...

What you need to develop is very easy with database backend and from my experience it is far better to use database than to use flatfile (at least it is faster) but that is up to a discussion...

Anyway - welcome to a PHP world - it might seem huge to you now but believe me it is very easy to learn and there are a lot of friendly guys on this forum to help you with whatever you're stuck with...

rm_aaren

Thanks for the tips and info.

However, being the super php new comer, I have no clue what I need to do in order to get php to work. I'm guessing I need to install something? Where do I get it? Once installed, what else do I need to do in order for me to be able to use my own scripts? Thanks again for dealing with my questions...

thorpe

the manual might be a good place to start then. all the install instructions are there, and then even a simple tutorial to get you started.

there is also a free online book here.