Set up Your Developer Environment

Prerequisites

Before you start with Shopgate, make sure you have created a Developer Account. Then, install the following software on your machine:

• Node.js (min. version: 18)
• Git

Shopgate also recommends basic knowledge of the following tools and technologies:

• Node.js (for backend development), Tutorial on w3schools.com
• React (for frontend development), Tutorial on egghead.io
• Redux (optional, for data handling), Tutorial on egghead.io

Install the Shopgate Platform SDK

The Shopgate Platform SDK is based on Node.js. The Shopgate CONNECT Platform SDK requires Node.js version 18 or later installed on your developer machine.

1. Open a terminal as a user with permission to install software.
2. Type npm install -g @shopgate/platform-sdk in the terminal.

Note:

Due to the large number of node modules and their dynamic development, you may see error or warning messages from time to time, such as peer dependencies, that most likely will not affect your work with the SDK. Continue and if you have an issue, contact Shopgate Support.*

Now you have the sgconnect command available on the command line to perform all actions required to develop and test your extensions.

Connect Your Local Development Environment with Your Developer Account

1. Type sgconnect login
2. Enter the email address and password that you set up during registration. Now you are logged in on this machine.

Install a REST client (optional)

To develop extensions for the backend, such as adding steps to pipelines or defining new pipelines, Shopgate recommends installing a REST client. Shopgate recommends the Postman client, but you can use any tool that can request a REST API endpoint. You do not need a REST client to only make changes to the theme.

Start with a Sandbox

You can use Sandbox apps as a testing environment to build your themes or extensions.

Starting a New Project

1. Create a new empty folder.
2. Open a terminal and run: sgconnect init This command creates all subfolders and files required to develop for the specified sandbox app within your project folder.
3. Enter the sandbox application ID. You can find your application IDs in Developer Center.

If you only want to develop server-based code (pipeline steps) and create or modify pipeline configurations, this is all you need to set up locally.

Next:

Set Up Local Frontend