I am new to this forum and forums in general (I really had a tough time finding how to post a new thread). I am reasonably seasoned in terms of web design. I have a good grasp on html, css, and flash and a basic understanding of web optimization. I don't really understand the programming end; no knowledge of php, or coldFusion, or any back end stuff.
The small business that I work for previously hired a web-developer that had no knowledge of anything web. She built the website through storesonline. If you are not aware of storesonline, google them, and understand my embarassment.
This all transpired long before I was hired. I was hired for graphic design and overall design coordination. That is what I know. It became apparent fairly early on that my web knowledge was far beyond that of the person whose job it was. She is no longer with us, and the task has fallen to me to move us to a more reliable system.
This is what I need: I need the capability to process both domestic and international orders. The ability to accept credit cards (it would be nice if this included Am Ex and Discover. oh, and we already have merchant services). A product database. The abilty to give wholesale customers passworded access to wholesale prices, independant of reatail customers. A shipping calculator. A shopping cart (duh). Quality customer service (this is very important).
I would also like to have the creative freedom of not working inside a template, but I realize this might not be realistic. I would also like a smooth transition into the new website (maybe also unrealistic).
I've been researching ecommerce and the various providers. None seem to tell me upfront all that I need to know. It is all so overwhelming. I have some knowlege of databases, but I doubt it's enough to be able to build this thing entirely on my own. I also don't really know from the open source software out there that is designed to help people in this area (I'm a big supporter of open source). I'm just looking for any advice to help me get my footing, really.
