They asked me (10+ years programming on Linux, mastery of C; familiar enough to hack x86 assembly / GPU / ruby / python / haskell code; can read php / javascript / actionscript) for assistance with building an online store.
They already have an artistically talented graphic designer. The question is, what software to use for:
1) running the backend of the online store 2) processing credit card / payments 3) automatically sending orders for shipment 4) logging everything [for data mining & finding consumer patterns]
Given background knowledge of: 1) I have worked through parts of the Ruby on Rails 3rd edition book for fun and 2) They aren't 'innovating' in building a better online store / better web2.0 website; the goal is just to sell online what they're already selling in the physical store
I believe the right solution is to:
1) find some existing open source / commercial ( The questions are:
1) does the analysis for using pre-existing online software instead of rolling our own sound right?
2) if so, what existing solutions [open source or commercial] do you suggest
3) if not, why? and what should I read up on / learn?
Thanks!