Can I categorise products by multiple criteria?

[Rusti]

I would like to list out products by multiple product categorisations - is this possible?

To clarify, here's what I mean, using cars as an example:

By Make:
Peugeot
BMW
Mitsubishi
Subaru

By Colour:
Black
White
Green

By Price:
<£1000
£1000-£5000
>£5000

I thought it would be nice to separate them with a space but I can't see how to do this.

I also realise I can subcategorise, however I would like all the search criteria to be visible at all times, without having to click on the major category to reveal the subs.

Anyone got a solution to this at all?
Thanks.

[met00]

check and see if this meets your needs.
[Contribution] Products Specifications - osCommerce Community Support Forums

[Rusti]

Thanks, that looks like just the thing. I understand I need to unzip the files to the same directory in which the site sits, but I'm not 100% sure where in there - do you know if I am supposed to create a new directory for them or just extract them to the main "catalogue" directory under the "www" directory? Many thanks for your help.

[pgmarshall]

Unfortunately, it is not that simple! You need to merge the code into the osCMax code ... it is not a simple drag and drop ...

If you are not into coding then I would recommend that you try and find a techie to do this for you!

Regards,

[met00]

Thanks, that looks like just the thing. I understand I need to unzip the files to the same directory in which the site sits, but I'm not 100% sure where in there - do you know if I am supposed to create a new directory for them or just extract them to the main "catalogue" directory under the "www" directory? Many thanks for your help.

1) download the zip
2) unpack on your local box
3) read the documentation
4) understand that it is written for OSC not osCMax and you will be changing .tpl.php files in the template/templatename/content directory NOT the catalog root php files so modify the directions accordingly
5) follow the modified directions changing the template files as needed

I will also state that PGM has made a great point.... if you are really unsure how to do this, seek professional help.

[Rusti]

Thanks guys.
My store isn't fully populated yet so I am prepared to take a risk and try it myself as a re-install isn't a big deal just for now.
I have downloaded "winmerge" file comparison utility and now have 2 of the files in front of me. Would I have to re-write any code in order to do this or can I just track the differences and put in the new lines of code?
If re-writing is required does anyone know of a reasonably priced service for doing this?
Thanks for your help.

[ridexbuilder]

Either write the changes direct to the osCMax file (given that you have the standard zip file to fall back on), or do a three-way compare, writing out to a new file.
The first option is easiest.

[Rusti]

OK thanks - so just to clarify, can I just identify where the new code is in the new document, and then paste it into the original file underneath the code in the section that's being compared with it in the utility manager? For example, see attachment.

What I'm driving at is do I need to re-write anything to make it work properly or is cutting and pasting going to do the job?

Thanks

[pgmarshall]

Rusti,

Looking at the screenshot for the merge in categories.php ... I think you may need someone who knows exactly what they are doing - that is one of the most complicated winmerges I have seen!

You may also want to consider what you are trying to achieve ... have a look at my demo site ... I have changed manufacturers to colours by simply changing the language files (basically use manufacturers for the most commonly searched for item in your store) - I have then listed the products out by Range and by Room. Basically by creating a product and then copying it across to the other tree.

Might be worth considering ...

Perhaps if you explained more fully what your store is selling and the number of products, categories etc. we maybe able to help you find a simpler solution.

Regards,

[ridexbuilder]

Jumping PGM's reply (posted in the same minute):

Pretty much, though to have success you may have to look at each added line on its' own merits. In the example given, I can't make out why boxes.php is being called - it may be fine, it may not.... You can but try; see what happens.
[Easier doing the compares in the opposite direction ]

PGMarshall's method is much easier, if appropriate.