26
« on: December 02, 2012, 10:43:27 AM »
This would seem to be much simpler than an FTP based approach, but I would ask, for what value of simpler, and at what cost?
The FTP based approaches I've used before involve a file base name being fed into the database with the object to which it should be attached. The relationship is simple and clear. While it requires some additional knowledge on the part of the store operator it allows the image data to be uploaded at the same time as the basic product or category data with no knowledge of database relationships whatsoever.
In the course of using this approach, the operator must gain some awareness of how the file system works. As files are uploaded, they periodically are exposed to the listing of directory contents - thus affording some review of the files present. In fact, I've managed to discover the presence of hack files because of this approach. It is one element of a layered approach to site security.
I have also used in in both batch and single item processing as a developer and store operator with minimal investment in time expended. SQL selection is straightforward for developers, and completely irrelevant to the store operator.
The approach currently implemented in Abantecart does appear to reduce the need for FTP operations. Nice thing from a security standpoint is that it does not require the store operator to possess credentials, thus limiting their access to the store code. But, neither does it afford the file system review opportunities using FTP brings to the table. Bit of a wash there.
It does however, require much more awareness of database structure and content in the course of batch processing using import files, as well as some significant increases in data storage and processing in the course of attaching resources previously loaded into the database to specific objects. So, we're increasing web server load and server resource use to get this freedom from FTP as well as more complex data management system education requirements.
Additionally, the more 'primitive' approach allowed the store operator to control the image names used in image urls, which the current Abantecart system does not. As the image name is used in calculating context scores by various search engines, this is an impediment to optimization in search performance.
Does the ability to control alt tag content which Abantecart offer overcome these changes? Only time and observation of active live sites will tell......