Skip to main content

Setting Up

Developing an e-commerce site on an API-first platform can be a powerful way to build a custom, tailored experience for your customers. However, getting started can be a bit daunting, especially if you're new to working with APIs. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps of setting up a development environment for building an e-commerce site on geins e-commerce suite.

tip

Make sure to have the content model and data model figued out before you start coding. This will save you a lot of time and effort in the long run.

Prerequisites​

Before you begin setting up your development environment, you'll need to make sure you have a few things in place:

  • A working knowledge of APIs and how they work
  • Familiarity with a programming language, such as Python or JavaScript
  • Access to the merchant center and a generated API key

Setting up your environment​

Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up your development environment:

  • Install a code editor: You'll need a code editor to write and edit your code. There are many options available, such as Visual Studio Code, Atom, or Sublime Text. Choose the one that you're most comfortable with and install it on your machine.

  • Install the necessary tools and libraries: Depending on the platform you're using, you may need to install specific tools or libraries. For example, if you're using a Python-based platform, you may need to install the Python SDK and any necessary libraries. Make sure you have everything you need installed and configured before you begin developing.

  • Set up your project: Create a new project in your code editor and set up the necessary files and directories for your project. This may include setting up a directory for your code, as well as any necessary configuration files or environment variables.

  • Get your API keys: You'll need to obtain API keys from the merchant center. These keys will allow you to access the platform's APIs and build custom experiences on top of the platform.

  • Start coding: With your development environment set up, you're ready to start coding. You can use the platform's APIs to build custom experiences, such as custom product pages or a custom checkout process.

info

Setting up a development environment for building an e-commerce site on an API-first platform can seem daunting, but with a little preparation, it's not difficult. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can get up and running quickly and start building a custom e-commerce experience for your customers. Good luck!