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Suppliers => Seed Suppliers => Topic started by: ideasguy on January 15, 2006, 03:59:13 PM

Title: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 15, 2006, 03:59:13 PM
One of my current projects is a demo "Flower Genie Catalog on CD" for Chiltern Seeds.

Chiltern Seeds (http://www.edirectory.co.uk/chilternseeds/)

If they go for it, you'll have a CD with their extensive range of seeds on a CD.

You'll be able to put this into your CD drive, select the Chiltern Seeds database on the CD using the "Other Source" pop-up  in Flower Genie,and browse the plant list.

Each plant will have a hyperlink to the BUY page on Chilterns on Line shop, so you can check out latest price and availablity.

It will be categorised by criteria which they use, like:
Perennial, Annual, Bees, Butterfly, First year flowering, Bonsai, etc

If you want to add a plant to your wish list, order a plant, or just plain like a plant, you can click a button and copy the plant from CD to your own database on your computer.

Do you think this would be useful to you?
Please PLEASE reply. Its one of my dreams to have this, but what do YOU think?

I'm making an appeal. Do you have photos of any plants you've grown from Chiltern Seeds? I'm looking for such examples to put photos to their plant names for my demo.
If you shop at Chilterns, you'll probably have noticed that they dont have a lot of photos in their catalog!
Photos will be very much appreciated.



Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: greenfinger on January 15, 2006, 08:16:45 PM
The catalog of Chiltern Seeds is good reading (bed stuff). It's dimensions are practical to keep it with you, but the disadvantage is there is no space for illustrations. When I speak for myself I need photos before I buy seeds. I have done business before with Chiltern Seeds and when I wanted to make my choice I had to look things up in my reference works (by the way a very good one to do this is the catalog of Jelitto: www.jelitto.com (http://www.jelitto.com). So I think there is a need for a joined CD with if possible more than one photo of the same plant. One photo only sometimes gives a wrong impression of a plant.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 15, 2006, 09:44:42 PM
I totally agree with you that a good photo is required when you are buying plants, in more that one book!

I received my Jelitto 2006 catalog on Saturday!
Now, it IS a nice catalog!

However, Chiltern have such a HUGE number of plants. If they had photos for each plant it would be like a UK Phone book!

When I spoke to the lady at Chiltern, she remarked that people weren't buying as many seed nowadays.
She put to down to the TV gardens promoting "Instant" gardens in those makeover programs.

Back to the CD. Heres the structure
I'm making a "Gardener" called Chiltern Seeds (but it will show up as a Supplier)
Then the "Garden Areas" will be the different classifications they define for their seeds.
Perennials
Annuals
Bees
etc.
A plant can appear in one or more "Garden Areas"
Each time you select a plant, the Chiltern notes appear.And, if it gets going, at least one photo per plant.
The flower close up, the whole Plant, the plant in combination with other plants?
May take more than one CD, or a DVD

More comments from other members please!
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: mikesanders on January 16, 2006, 09:52:03 AM
Yes - in my limited time in this hobby of gardening, I had come to the same conclusion - a great range of seeds, but it is good to see the end product as a photograph.  That would make the Chiltern Seeds catalogue one of the best in the market place - and if it can all be tied in with germination, seedling care advice, then this would be great - obviously, from a commercial viewpoint, there has to be a comprehensive on-line ordering service to Chilterns - I have not yet used the Chiltern On-line facility yet (although it is high on my list of priorities to have a good look at their site), so can't comment on what it's like at present.

Great idea and i hope it copmes to fruition.

Mike Sanders
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: greenfinger on January 16, 2006, 02:44:51 PM

It's my experience when I make a planting plan it is most important to have good planting schemes, not to follow them blindly but to try out plants that have already got their marks from specialists. I can advice the books written (mostly in cooperation) by Piet Oudolf, Henk Gerritsen (two Duchmen) and not to forget Noel Kingsbury.
I think this can be a topic on the DVD:  lassooed garden areas with the plants this time not as a single item, but photographed in form and colour combinations. For me this kind of pictural info of plants in groups is at least as important as the photos of single specimens.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: The Gardener on January 23, 2006, 05:17:04 PM
I've been a customer of Chiltern Seed for probably 20 years, and have steered loads of people in their direction (I've got a link to their site on my website).  I find their catalogue really comprehensive in terms of the number of plants they offer, and the number of rarely available plants.  Over the years, I grew a lot of plants from Chiltern seed because a) it was cheaper to grow from seed, b) I had lots of room in my garden (not now!), c) I had a lot more time than I have now, d) I was young enough to wait until the seeds had grown to maturity or near-maturity (especially shrubs or trees) and e) Chiltern had the best selection of unusual plants, and I'm a sucker for anything unusual!  I used to browse the catalogue for any perennial I'd never heard of, then look it up and see if it was something I'd like.  I learned about a heck of a lot of new (to me) plants like that. I often thought it would be good to see photos of plants so that I could see immediately what they looked like. If they had a cd, then the customer could read about the plant, and maybe see a picture, and if they wanted to order it, one click takes them there.  What could be more simple and convenient.  Come on Chiltern - go for it!!
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Pixydish on January 26, 2006, 09:42:30 AM
Just checking in with this thread about the CD catalog. I see that the lady at Chilterns is concerned that fewer people buy seeds now. I'm sure she is correct about that. People do tend to go for things that they can see instant results from. All the more reason to have photos attached to catalog items, in my view. When you are trying to compete with the 'instant gardening' crowd, the more information you can offer a customer, the more likely they are to buy. In addition, young people growing up now, the future gardeners, are extremely visual. They have grown up in the media age and are accustomed to modern media formats. They will be the ones buying seeds when we're all gone.
So I'd really like to see a catalog that has photos, as well as complete germination information. It's not enough for me to know that a seed needs 'warm soil' vs. 'cool soil'. I want to know the best temperature range for that seed to germinate, whether is likes dry soil or moist once it has germinated, how much light, etc. I end up having to do a lot of research on my own to get this information, no matter where I buy the seeds. I don't know very many people who love gardening enough to go to all that trouble (except on this forum!). They certainly sell more seeds if they gave more information.
I recently ordered about 30 different seed varieties from a seller in California (USA) who has a catalog the size of a good paperback book. No photos at all, and only brief descriptions of the plants. If he had a catalog on CD, not only would I have saved many hours of research time, but I likely would have placed an even larger order. I order from another American company that has great seeds, and many unusual ones, but they have the exact same germination information on each packet, no matter what plant the seeds are from! Not exactly a key to success if you follow their instructions without thinking. And were I a new gardener, I'd give up on seeds fairly quickly with this sketchy information.
A CD catalog would be a perfect venue for offering more information and photos, and much cheaper to produce in the long run than a paper catalog.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: gardenfan on February 11, 2006, 06:11:26 PM
I, too, find the Chiltern Seeds catalogue good reading. I have been using Chiltern for some years now - my only problems are restraining myself from buying too many and finding the space for the plants I grow.
I find plants grown from seed often survive better than larger plants bought in nurseries. Our garden soil (in East Anglia) is so light and dries out very quickly but plants grown from seed seem to develop the ability to survive here.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 11, 2006, 06:48:34 PM
I'm still working on the Chiltern demo, Sylvia, so if you have any photos of plants you've grown from Chiltern seeds they would be much appreciated.
Andre (Greenfinger - Belgium)  has sent me a good selection. I held back to get them added to give more content.

Anyone who sends a few photos can have a copy of the demo.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: The Gardener on February 14, 2006, 12:10:36 AM
Over the years I've grown lots of plants from Chiltern Seeds, and probably photographed most of them, BUT - I can't remember what I've ordered in the past from them, so I can't tell which are theirs and which aren't! I wonder if they have an archive of orders and can tell me what I've ordered in the past ten years  :)
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 14, 2006, 01:13:08 AM
At this stage I'd be quite happy to have a few photos of plants in their catalog, just to fill out the demo a bit.

SEND with Flower Genie if you have a couple to spare, then the names and data will be in the exact format. The jpgs will not appear on the CD. The images will be encapsulated in the database using that new feature I told you about to protect photos when distributing SWAP CD's.

RE: I wonder if they keep archives?  
I expect they do. I gave the lady from Chiltern the link to the forum, and asked her to look in from time to time. Perhaps she will grace us with a comment at some stage.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: The Gardener on February 14, 2006, 11:57:50 AM
I haven't got an up to date catalogue, I think mine is either 2002 or 2003.  Still, I don't expect there's a vast amount of change, so I'll have a look and see what I've got.  I'll SEND them to you when I've got a minute!
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 14, 2006, 01:45:44 PM
That will be very much appreciated Chrissie.
You'll get a copy of the finished article, of course, plus the one for Farmyard Nurseries (see other thread).
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on June 24, 2006, 11:14:08 PM
After a break, I'm back on this project again.

Any photos of plants which are in the Chiltern catalog would be very much appreciated.
They dont have to have been grown from seed, as long as its a photo of a plant in their catalog.


Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on August 23, 2006, 11:38:38 PM
Back to this project once again!

When the program FG037 in Flower Genie starts, the first plant alphabetically is selected and clicked by the program, thus showing a photo of the plant.
I'd like the first plant in the Demo database to have a photo, so if you'd like to help, then try this:
Go to the Chilterns web site
http://www.edirectory.co.uk/chilternseeds/
Under Search for a product, Enter capital A in the Genus field, and click Go to do a search.
Their Catalog items beginning with A are shown.
What's the first plant in the list that you have a photo for?
If none on page 1, proceed to page 2 etc.

Email photo(s) to ideasguy@gmail.com (with the name of the plant of course).
If you have Flower Genie please use the SEND feature.

A few photos of any plant in their catalog would also be appreciated. It would be nice to make the demo a combined effort.
It might encourage them to "go for it"

Thanking you in anticipation!
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on August 30, 2006, 12:42:53 AM
Many thanks to André for emailing a number of batches of very high quality photos. Its a treat to look at them in IG and FG, and they are very interesting plants!

These will be available to all members, of course, in the next copy of the Master Database.

Your photo contributions will be very much appreciated towards the success of this fantastic IG Community project.
Email to:
ideasguy@gmail.com
 
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on December 24, 2008, 08:18:07 PM
I cant believe that its almost 3 years since this idea was "hatched" and the catalaog on CD still hasn't materialised.

I'm determined to make amends, and have this wonderful resource released in very early January 2009
and available to you
a) as a download (only a few photos) and
b) on CD, with all the photos we can muster from our members and beyond.

This time around I'm delighted to say that Chiltern have been very supportive.
First, Pat (my contact at Chiltern) supplied an Excel file with details of all the plants in their catalog.

Over 4000 items with Catalog reference, Genus, Species, Cultivar and Price.
I then asked if it was possible to have a list of the URL's (web address) of the BUY pages for each catalog item.
I'm very excited to say this has also been supplied.

First step was to import the plant names into Ideas Genie Pro format. I decided to add them to the Master Database, as Ive now adapted that as the resource to store all the research I do into plants during my various projects.

Progress at time of writing. I'm on the last 500 items. When that slog is over, its time for the fun to begin and start work on the Catalog proper. (The Master Database now has over 35,000 plants)

I'll be renewing my request for donations of photos from our members for use in the Catalog.
If you have photos of any of the plants listed in the Chiltern Seeds catalog, please send them along to ideasguy@gmail.com

Please help make this project a success. If it works well, it will pave the way for other suppliers to follow suit.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 24, 2009, 06:18:16 PM
Almost ready to upload the new Chiltern Catalog, updated GA040 etc.
Its a culmination of a couple of months of really hard slog.
I realised that there might not be a big take up of the Catalog on CD, whereas people download most things nowadays.

Including photos would have been a problem for downloading.
Instead I did some testing by linking the Chiltern seeds list to some of our own WPG photos. I was so excited by what I was seeing!

Ive asked permission from some of our members to link to their WPG photos, and I have been delighted with the positive responses.
Its been a pleasure working with your photos, and its a delight to play with the catalog, wondering whose photos are going to appear.
 
Watch this space if you'd like to give it a try.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on January 24, 2009, 10:29:47 PM
 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)  ;D

Looking forward to seeing the results of all your hard work with the Chiltern cat George.

One question...................What are you going to think up next  ;D  ;D  ;D  ;D

Or is it time to get that rusty fork out of the shed, and get out into the garden ?

Malcolm
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 24, 2009, 10:41:26 PM
Quote
Or is it time to get that rusty fork out of the shed, and get out into the garden ?
I KNEW there was something I was forgeting!  ;D
 
RE:
Quote
What are you going to think up next 
Depends on how long I sit on a bus travelling to and from my day job!
I call it a cruising dream machine - mind goes hyper with ideas on the way to work.
I have a nap on the way home. I think the only person who doesn't is he driver.

Seriously, these things just evolve.
The Catalog thing pulls a whole lot of things together. It was interesting!
The proof of the pudding will be in the hands of the IG and FG users very soon

Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on January 26, 2009, 08:24:02 PM
George
Quote
I have a nap on the way home.

i call my naps power naps  ;D, helps you get a bit more energy for all those jobs that need to be done
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 26, 2009, 08:54:35 PM
This power naps are real good! My wife is amazed that I wake up before my stop!

The Chiltern catalog will give you a few ideas Phil! Working at it now.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on January 26, 2009, 10:18:37 PM
hurry up then  ;) cant wait to see the chiltern catalogue
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 26, 2009, 10:43:54 PM
I'm doin' me best <puff pant>  :)
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 27, 2009, 01:18:15 AM
The first glimpse
Its test mode at this stage folk.
The prices are 2008. Perhaps Pat will be kind if you are the first to send in an order using the Mail Order button!

First, download the updated Catalog program:
http://www.ideasforgardens.net/dl/GA040-dl.exe
1.29 mb
When installed should indicate Version 14

then the catalog itself
http://www.ideasforgardens.net/dl/Chiltern-dl.exe
Its about 4.92 mb Eric, so you should be able to manage it.

Things to note:

About GA040
Ive been experimenting with resizing options.
Normally screens in IG Pro open up full screen. Ive been using a wide screen monitor, and the screens look tooooo distorted, so this is my attempt to tackle that.
Try this (NOT ALL SCREENS YET)
Click on the title bar and drag to position the screen
Click on the lower right hand corner of a screen and drag to the size that looks good.
Note that when you close that screen and re-enter, that screen resizes and re-positions to the size last used.

Next:
Navigate to show the selection of plants Plants with web photos da-daaaaa ;)
Get to screen GA040S14
Click the Web photos button
Takes you to screen GA100S31
Did you notice anything?
The screen you left behind goes shaded.
Ive tested this on two computers
On one its very fast. On the second the darkening is a bit slow (like watching curtains drop)
If its too slow, go to the initial screen of the program and uncheck the Shade in-active windows checkbox

About the catalogYou can buy on line, or create a mail order.
Go through the motions of both if you will. Try adding to basket, continue shopping and add more items.

Chiltern withheld on the plant data information. Its rather precious information and I can understand their reason for guarding it.
This means when you click on a plant, you wont see any plant information.
However, Ive written a bit of code under the Plant Info button in screen GA040S14
When you click that, the program visits the Chiltern Website,the exact page where you would buy the plant, and extracts the Plant information and displays it in the appropriate box.
If you want the program to look up for info every time you click on a plant,you can check the Get plant info on click checkbox
By default its unchecked as it slows the clicking through plants down (you are waiting for a response from the Chiltern server).

Destinations
In the mail Order option, Ive set up the delivery options for all the countries to suit our members. Theres more if required.
As you see, they deliver to US Toby, if you see anything you like.

So off you go and give it a birl.

Edited to say:
STATUS
1) Email function incomplete. Will work on that this evening.
2) The changes I made may mean the Imberhorne and Gower catalogs may not produce a Mail Order printout. Will fix that ASAP.
3) Catalog sections:- These are examples only, as to what the program can present. Suggestions welcome!
I'd like to add sections like
Applications (similar to the current section:- Alpine Plants)
Border Positions (Front, middle back)
More sections by Colour Group
However, all of these require information per plant, and theres about 4,000 of them!
4) The search buttons in GA040S02 are not taking you to the plant you select. Work on that later

I'll remove this message when Status has changed.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on January 27, 2009, 09:12:02 AM
Just a short progress report.

Successfully installed the Chiltern Seeds catalogue.

Have browsed the catalogue with the selection for Plants with web photos.  The links to members' photos work perfectly, as well as the link to Chiltern Seeds server for more info when clicking the Plant Info button.

The shading of in-active windows is a wonderful touch, and works fast on my PC.

An absolutely stunning piece of programming there George to get this catalogue into fruition.  All of your long, hard work has finally paid off.

Top marks George.

We'll have a closer look later on to test the buying procedure, and will report further once we've done this.

So far, so superbly good.  ;D  8)

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 27, 2009, 09:32:58 AM
Ah, now thats a nice start to MY day!
Sat up a bit late last night to upload and to do the writeup (this topic)

Glad there were no hitches. (in fact rather surprsed) There are a LOT of changes in that program to improve the functionality to manipulate the Chiltern Catalog.
I'm going to edit the first posting Laurie with a couple of things I forgot.

Are you OK with the credits on your web images Laurie? Next update I'll add a link to your Labels enterprise, if you wish.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on January 27, 2009, 09:51:24 AM
Thank you for including some of my photos.  The credits are perfect.  :)

A link to our labels enterprise would be very much appreciated.

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 27, 2009, 10:05:52 AM
Will do Laurie. It will be a small recompense in relation to the time, travel and effort in amassing your photo collections.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on January 27, 2009, 10:51:11 AM
ooh goody  ;D i shall download it once you have made all your changes, as you know i am on diaaaaaaaaal uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuup and at the moment eircom are messing around with the exchange and we get no phone connection occassionally  ::) so i will download  in the evening when eircom go home
Phil
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 27, 2009, 10:55:13 AM
RE
Quote
i shall download it once you have made all your changes
By then, the whole world will have broadband (or its successor)::)  :)
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on January 27, 2009, 11:05:44 AM
Quote from: ideasguy on January 27, 2009, 10:55:13 AM
RE
Quote
i shall download it once you have made all your changes
By then, the whole world will have broadband (or its successor)::)  :)

rethink  ;D will download tonight as i think that may be quiker than waiting for broadband
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 27, 2009, 11:34:24 AM
Leave it until late this evening, Phil. Ive an update to do to GA040 (already)
I had a system error when I took the option to Print my Mail order to printer.  :-[
The Print Preview is OK, as thats the one Ive been using in my tests
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on January 27, 2009, 11:39:41 AM
will do, will wait for your go ahead update, you can now have a tour around my cottage in the my garden section
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: bossgard on January 27, 2009, 05:12:56 PM
George:

Just to let you know program works OK across the pond!

Have created order for 1 only Begonia Tuberous-rooted, F1 Hybrid, ?Pin-Up? 184H , I will post order ASAP (just kidding for now, maybe later). Have printed out copy of order, what to see it?

- Toby
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 27, 2009, 08:42:43 PM
RE:
Quote
Just to let you know program works OK across the pond!
Thats great Toby.
Have you grown Tuberous-rooted Begonias from seed before?

No need to let us see the order. It wouldnt print (hard copy) for me this morning, so rather surprised you got that to work.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: bossgard on January 27, 2009, 10:10:34 PM
Have been inside Chiltern Seeds a little bit more, now I know why it took you soooo long. Amazing what YOUR SKILLS can produce.

When I got my membership card back from American Begonia Society, there was a very small packet attached to the papers. Guess what ? the smallest seeds I think I have ever seen. They are really fly specks. They will take a greenhouse atmosphere to grow I?m sure, but someday, maybe. The Society encourages seed growing, and has a seed exchange. These guys really get into it, there?s more to Tuberous Begonias than I every suspected. Lots and lots of species, etc. They have their own plantsmen members out searching.

I have received two copies of their monthly booklet, each one is packed with guest articles by various members, collectors, breeders, etc. Their 2009 ABS convention is in Florida, April 28 ? May 3. Will have shows with judging, trophies, tours, speakers, banquets, etc. Way over my head!

Will post further Begonia information in Plant Topic as it occurs.

- Toby
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 28, 2009, 12:40:49 AM
RE:
Quote
When I got my membership card back from American Begonia Society, there was a very small packet attached to the papers. Guess what ? the smallest seeds I think I have ever seen.
Was that recently?

Didnt have time to work on this project tonight, but will resume again when I catch my breath.
Yes there was a lot of work in that project, and its nice to see you and Laurie have made such encouraging comments.
Keep poking around and you'll discover a few wee hidden things.



Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 28, 2009, 04:15:36 PM
Special offer:
2008 prices held for our members.

Pat has agreed to my request that members who are in a hurry to order seeds can go ahead and do so using the printable Mail Order in the new Chiltern Catalog.
Note:
1) To avail of the offer, must be Mail Order (send by snail mail) printed on output from GA040
2) If you order on-line - they will be at 2009 prices.

Ive received the 2009 price list, so offer will last a couple of weeks.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: bossgard on January 28, 2009, 04:43:35 PM
Received Begonia (B. ludwiigii) seeds end of Nov. 08. Why do you ask???

If I process Chiltern order, how do I handle US funds, and pricing. Sooner or later will you have US currency available?

Also, regarding Chiltern you mention adding sections like Applications, Border Positions, Color, etc., that's all good info to have when you are trying to find a plant to fit a certain location. When you can find time, of course.

Q. - Can you give me height measurement (in inches) for front, middle and back. Would like to have that for data I'm entering of my own. I know I've read it some place, but can't find it.

Thanks!

- Toby

Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 28, 2009, 05:08:05 PM
Just wondered if it was this season or last. Have you ever tried them from seed before?

When a customer orders n line then the system charegs in pounds, and your card would show the exchange rate and deduct US dollars.
By post (Mail Order) would need some sort of money order, in GBP.

RE:
Quote
Can you give me height measurement (in inches) for front, middle and back
Now that deserves a separate topic. Go ahead and create a new one, Toby and we can take it from there.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on January 29, 2009, 08:20:42 PM
Quote from: ideasguy on January 27, 2009, 11:34:24 AM
Leave it until late this evening, Phil. Ive an update to do to GA040 (already)
I had a system error when I took the option to Print my Mail order to printer.  :-[
The Print Preview is OK, as thats the one Ive been using in my tests

Is it ok to download catalogue now, i'm waiting patiently  ;) have seen some items i would like to order and they deliver to southern ireland and i would like to use your programme to order with useing email function
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 30, 2009, 09:09:49 AM
I managed to get the email option revised to suit Chiltern late last night  8) but didnt upload as I want to play some more with it before release
Its been a frantic week  :)
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on January 30, 2009, 10:07:48 AM
no worries george just shout when you done i can download then
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 30, 2009, 10:37:15 AM
RE: (Phil)
Quote
i would like to use your programme to order with useing email function
Question Phil
Do you intend to pay by credit/debit card over the phone?
If yes, that would be perfect for the email function.
Pat (at Chiltern) would get your order as an attachment to the email (thats how Ive made it work)
You could then follow up with a phone call and pay with your credit/debit card
It would be nice to test that email option in this way, as it obviously works for any currency (you pay in GBP, but your credit card statement will show the conversion to Euro, $=USD, AUD etc)

Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on January 30, 2009, 01:28:19 PM
i dont have a credit card (devils ruin) i do have  3v visa prepay credit card which are done by permanent tsb, basically i go to the shop put a certain amount onto my card i am issued with a receipt with a long number on it which is basically the credit card number, i get emailed the cvv number and expiry date, i can do online shop useing that which is how i purchased my ig pro (and you did not know that did you) or i can phone up the shop and do it that way so in reply to your question

yes by phone

i do have a debit card its a laser card but you find that uk sites dont accept laser card (will check chiltern out on laserr though to see if it is a payment option) even though they are bank issued debit cards, if they use online payment providers like protx i beleive laser card is an option for payment it just needs adding to their type of payment cards accepted

for the 3v card look at www.3v.ie
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on January 30, 2009, 02:02:19 PM
RE:
Quote
You can also transfer money from one 3V Voucher to another that hasn't expired. For example if you have ?5 left on one Voucher and have just bought a new one, you can transfer the remaining money across, as long as the overall balance of your unexpired 3V Voucher doesn't exceed ?350. The amount you have selected will then be transferred automatically to your other Voucher less the transfer fee of ?2.50.
Can you top up your 3V card, or do you have to buy new and transfer any small amount left on an almost completely used card?

RE:
Quote
and you did not know that did you
mmmm No. I dont go to the PROTX website very often. I get all my info from the Romancart site.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on January 30, 2009, 07:48:03 PM
G
Quote
Can you top up your 3V card, or do you have to buy new and transfer any small amount left on an almost completely used card?

You keep the same card, everytime i want to use it i have to buy a top up which is then linked to my card the max is 350 euro any one time if you have some left you can transfer into your bank or onto another new bought top up but there are costs i think its 2.50 to transfer any remainder to your bank or onto another new top up, i find it ideal because i dont like credit cards i prefer to save for something if i want it but i also needed a way of buying online so 3v is perfect

G
Quote
mmmm No. I dont go to the PROTX website very often. I get all my info from the Romancart site.

Any transactions useing 3v in your ideas shop cart will appear as a normal credit card transaction
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 12:21:02 AM
Updates have now been posted.

The prices are still at 2008. Pat has offered to accept our mail Orders at those rates from our members.

First, download the updated Catalog program:
http://www.ideasgenie.com/updates-igpro/GA040-dl.exe
1.29 mb
When installed should indicate Version 15

then the catalog itself
http://www.ideasforgardens.net/dl/Chiltern-dl.exe
Its about 4.92 mb Eric and Phil, so you should be able to manage it.

The catalog now has more Web photos that before. Talk about that tomorrow.
Feedback would be much appreciated.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 05, 2009, 08:07:43 AM
Files downloaded and have tried it out George.
In the short time I have before off to repair? more machines, It seems to work fine.
Will check back on it later this afternoon/evening.

Can I suggest another GOLD star from Kathy and Laurie, for George please.

Malcolm

PS just noticed there are some plants that have pictures on our plant guide that do not have a link to in the catalogue ie Echinacea purpurea 'White swan'
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on February 05, 2009, 09:12:40 AM
I've also tried out the catalog.  Works great here.

I also notice a plant in their list for which we have a photo and is not linked in the catalog - Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff'.

The photo is on Our Garden (http://www.ideasforgardens.net/KathyLaurie/OurFavouritePlants/) web site.

I think 2 Gold stars are in order here.  George has worked like a 'Trooper' on this project.

Please accept these as a token of our esteem George.  Congratulations.  :) (http://www.pixiemouse.com/igforum/star2_dkbg.jpg)  (http://www.pixiemouse.com/igforum/star2_dkbg.jpg)

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 05, 2009, 11:34:33 AM
Bishop of Llandaff works ok here Laurie, a web picture.


Malcolm

Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 05, 2009, 11:45:19 AM
Downloaded catalog lovely, but i am getting errors i have emailed george and he  said ok to post my email here to see if any one could check on theirs to see if they get error
heres email

Hi George
well done on the catalogue, but i have found an error, the catalog opens up ok, clicked on all plants in our entire collection, plant type grasses on the catalogue drop down box, highlighted stipa tenuissima Pony Tails, clicked on plant info, got message please wait retreiving plant info, then i get SYSTEM ERROR. See Error File for details
Which says
10;41 GA040/15 OLE error code 0x800706b5: The interface is unknow Foxcode table not found, is not correct version or is incompatible
10:50 GA040/15 OLE error code 0x800706b5: The interface is unknow
10:52 GA040/15 OLE error code 0x800706b5: The interface is unknow
10:52 GA040/15 OLE error code 0x80010108: The object invoked has
10:52 GA040/15 OLE error code 0x80010108: The object invoked has
10:50 GA040/15 OLE error code 0x800706b5: The interface is unknow
 
I have tried 6 times on different plants and i get the error but it does open up the web page for that particular plant,
 
when i click on ok in the SYSTEM ERROR box all catalog pages close down and i am left with a colured background with the normal system edit files etc at top
 
did not want to put all this on forum hence email, awaiting your instructions no rush, should i download catalogue again and see what happens ?
windows vista home premium if that helps
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 12:23:29 PM
My first reply to Phil was to say to ensure that he was connected to the internet.
When you click that button, you see a message:
Please wait... retrieving info from website

Chiltern didnt supply the Plant informaion in the files they sent, so I developed a bit of magic code which connected to their web site, extracts a specific section of inner text (the plant info) from the buy page for the plant, and displays it in that info box.

Thus, an internet connection is required.

An internet connection is also required when you click on:
'x' web photos button (xx can be 1 or many)
Buy on-line button

The OLE error code messages reported by Phil are caused by a failure to open the make a connection or failure initiating the browser (its a special instance of the IE browser, hosted in the screen GA100S31)
There are two Stipa tenuissima 'Pony Tails'  images, both Lauries photos, taken at Harlow Carr.  The plant info and the Web Photos are working for me.

Does it work for you when you click the web photos and Buy on-line buttons Phil?
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on February 05, 2009, 12:52:00 PM
Just confirming Plant Info and Web Photos functions works here too.

On clicking the Plant Info button I get the message saying "Please wait... retrieving info from website", then info appears below.

Photos appear as expected.

We have a Broadband connection so Internet connection to Chiltern web site for the Plant Data is immediate.

Must be something to do with Phil's dial-up connection.

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 12:58:28 PM
RE: (Malcolm)
Quote
PS just noticed there are some plants that have pictures on our plant guide that do not have a link to in the catalogue ie Echinacea purpurea 'White swan'
To explain to other members, the WPG program generates two log files when you use the WPG.
Malcolm and Laurie have sent me the files as requested.
Everything I do in relation with plants is "passed through" the Master Database.
I work continually in trying to get the plants in the Master to conform with the names found on the RHS website.
To do that, I use the RHS button in screen GA100S36.

The process involved in linking the photo references found in the Logfiles supplied.
1: Match (cross-reference) the Plant names in the Logfile to the plant names in the Master.
I wrote a set of programs which does the drudgery work. If an exact match, Logfile to Master, then "happy days"
If not, another program allows me to manually match.
Very simple things can cause a mismatch. One character is enough, even spacing within a plant name.
If its a plant which doesn't exist in the Master, its added, so the Master grows.
 
2: When the cross-reference has been made, use the information in the WPG Logfiles to automatically create Web Image links in the Master Database.
As a result, the Master benefits, by the addition of every photo in the Logfile

3: Run another program to cross check the list of plants in a Catalog (any catalog) and copy the web links found in the Master
The same program also adds records to the catalog section: Plants with web photos
It works a treat!

I'm still working through your large list, Malcolm
I did the ones that matched automatically, and quite a number manually, but only about half way there.
I'll be working more on that, I can assure you.

RE: (Laurie)
Quote
I also notice a plant in their list for which we have a photo and is not linked in the catalog - Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff'.

I have only linked up the images from the logfiles you sent from the Harlow Carr WPG output Laurie.
When you get a minute, re-generate the ones for your Small and medium suburban gardens in North Yorkshire, UK
WPG project (I see thats the one with 'the Bishop', and I'll process that file, to link up with the plants in the Chiltern list.

Thanks for sharing the images in this way folk. Its very much appreciated. I hope you are as excited as I am that we as a "community" can pull something like this together.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 01:30:30 PM
RE: (Phil)
Quote
clicked on plant info, got message please wait retreiving plant info, then i get SYSTEM ERROR

Ive thought of another possible error.
The Chiltern Web site requires you to accept cookies.
If you have tight security on your Browser setup, not allowing cookies, that may be the cause.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on February 05, 2009, 02:07:36 PM
Quote
I have only linked up the images from the logfiles you sent from the Harlow Carr WPG output Laurie.
When you get a minute, re-generate the ones for your Small and medium suburban gardens in North Yorkshire, UK
WPG project (I see thats the one with 'the Bishop', and I'll process that file, to link up with the plants in the Chiltern list.
Malcolm has mentioned that the 'Bishop of Llandaff' is already linked to one of his photos in the Chiltern catalog, so that's not a problem, use that one.

As regards generating a WPG for our own gardens, that will take a bit longer.  There are lots of new plants I want to add to it first with photos, so I'll get onto that as soon as I can.

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 02:24:12 PM
Thats great Laurie.
One of the exciting things about the first time I played with the linked photos was to be surprised by how it pulled in photos from a number of members websites.
Its nice to have more than one photo. I think that adds more interest.
Personally, I like to see a range of photos of a plant before deciding to buy.
Theres no shortage of close ups of most of the popular plants grown by gardeners, but not so many of plants in a garden location, or indeed showing a general view of the plants.
Thus, the more (links) the merrier,and the more aspects the merrier again  :D

Have you noticed the links (Web Photos) to the Habitas website?
Be sure to click the other links in the credits section when you get to the images screen. In many cases there is some very interesting reading.
Much of the work on that Northern Ireland website is by Paul Hackney, Curator of Botany at Ulster Museum (and Belfast Botanic Gardens)
Remember my WPG?
http://www.ideasforgardens.net/botanic-gardens/belfast-botanic-gardens/
I contacted Paul during the database design stages to gather as much information about what fields i should include for recording plant names.
He was more than helpful.
I was very fortunate to be granted permission to link to those web pages. Theres a wealth of information and images there.



Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 05, 2009, 02:34:47 PM

Quote
I'm still working through your large list, Malcolm
I did the ones that matched automatically, and quite a number manually, but only about half way there.
I'll be working more on that, I can assure you

I hope you didn't think I was having a moan George.

I certainly didn't realise that you did all those checks and adding to the Master Database before the links could be used.

I was unable to bring up those errors that Roiphil had.

Malcolm
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 03:44:43 PM
RE:
Quote
I hope you didn't think I was having a moan George
But of course not Malcolm. I'm really pleased that you and Laurie did point that out. means there are more pics to add to the list!

RE:
Quote
I was unable to bring up those errors that Roiphil had.
No gold stars for failure <tee hee>

Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 03:56:37 PM
To all:
Heres a few challenges


End of challenges for today!
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 05, 2009, 08:02:08 PM
Quote from: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 12:23:29 PM
My first reply to Phil was to say to ensure that he was connected to the internet.
When you click that button, you see a message:
Please wait... retrieving info from website

Chiltern didnt supply the Plant informaion in the files they sent, so I developed a bit of magic code which connected to their web site, extracts a specific section of inner text (the plant info) from the buy page for the plant, and displays it in that info box.

Thus, an internet connection is required.

An internet connection is also required when you click on:
'x' web photos button (xx can be 1 or many)
Buy on-line button

The OLE error code messages reported by Phil are caused by a failure to open the make a connection or failure initiating the browser (its a special instance of the IE browser, hosted in the screen GA100S31)
There are two Stipa tenuissima 'Pony Tails'  images, both Lauries photos, taken at Harlow Carr.  The plant info and the Web Photos are working for me.

Does it work for you when you click the web photos and Buy on-line buttons Phil?


Right back now after shopping, school, feeding horses, feeding myself,

still getting error messages, yes connected to internet and seeing this message Please wait... retrieving info from website then i get the error message but my ie browser opens up onto chiltern website page for that plant, and ig goes to a coloured screen with file system etc at the top and i can still restart catalog programme, i aallow computer to accept cookies anyway otherwise you cant go online shopping  ;D

could it be cos i am on dial up  ??? ???

update i have now allowed cookies from chiltern seeds to be accepted just to check and i still get error messages and same as before browser still opens up on chiltern plant page
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 05, 2009, 08:11:57 PM
Quote from: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 03:56:37 PM
To all:
Heres a few challenges

  • In screen GA040S14 - left click on the navigation buttons at bottom of list - previous next
  • In screen GA040S14 - in the Plants with Web Photos list - RIGHT click on the navigation buttons at bottom of list - goes direct to web image page
    In screen GA100S31, Right click on the form (NOT the image at present-I'm working on that) and takes you back to screen GA040S14
  • In screen GA040S14 - Switching on/off Get Plant Info on click - program searches for Plant info on web site each click - may slows things down, thats why its an option
  • In screen GA040S14 - Type at least two characters in the field at bottom of plants list (between nav. buttons) - searches the list of plants, sets cursor to plants beginning with letetrs typed.
  • In screen GA040S14 - Google button
  • In screen GA040S14 - Select section with All plants - click arrows at TOP to filter list by plant types (I need to do more work on the plant types!)
  • Add plant to BUY to My Mail Order
  • Add a Substitute to My Mail Order (is that "intuitive" or do I need to add help ?)
  • In screen GA040S06 - switch display between Order items and substitutes
  • In screen GA040S06, Change a quantity
  • In screen GA040S06, Change quantity to bring order value to over £100. Note how discount kicks in (I hope!)
  • In screen GA040S06, Delete an item
  • In screen GA040S06, Print your mail order

End of challenges for today!

hang on wait for me  :( cant play at moment
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 05, 2009, 08:35:45 PM
well i have done those challenges, i like the way it puts something extra in (not saying what do the challenge and you will find out at the end) and discount works for me  ;) but i still cant click on plant info with out error messages

George yes web picture button and buy online button works fine its just the plant info button
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 09:49:31 PM
RE:
Quote
buy online button works fine its just the plant info button
The odd thing is, they both access exactly the same web page.
The show info extracts the data from the web page.

Its not to do with you being on dial up. I'd be very surprised if that were the case.
Eric will be trying it soon, so we will wait to see if it works for him on dialup.

I hope its not a Vista thing!
Have any members tested it on Vista?
Feedback on that would be appreciated

Ah'm a-puzzled  :(

In the meantime (unless I get a flash of inspiration  ::)) just use the buy online button to get info on the plant (sorry).
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 05, 2009, 11:42:50 PM
Quote
Have any members tested it on Vista?

Sorry no, got XP here on both computers, reluctant to change as XP is stable.

Malcolm
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on February 06, 2009, 07:11:37 AM
Quote from: Lyn and Malcolm on February 05, 2009, 11:42:50 PM
Quote
Have any members tested it on Vista?
Sorry no, got XP here on both computers, reluctant to change as XP is stable.
Malcolm

Ditto.

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on February 06, 2009, 07:48:19 AM
Quote from: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 03:56:37 PM
To all:
Heres a few challenges
  • In screen GA100S31, Right click on the form (NOT the image at present-I'm working on that) and takes you back to screen GA040S14
George, the only problem I encountered was as follows:

(1)  Screen GA100S31
Right-clicking on Form -
(a)" Web Address" - nothing happens.

(b)  Plant name box - clicking here first without having clicked in either of the other boxes does nothing, but if either of the other boxes are clicked and then clicking again in the Plant name box I get the warning box - SYSTEM ERROR. See Error File for details.
Clicking this OK button, screen GA100S31 remains on-screen but windows behind it (catalog screens) clear.  Then clicking the CLOSE button on GA100S31 brings up message box - "Program Error - Variable 'PROGNAME' is not found." Clicking CANCEL or IGNORE buttons clears the screen and closes down IG Pro.
 
(c)  "Photo Description" - clicking in here without having clicked in either of the other boxes does nothing, but if either of the other boxes are clicked in then clicking again in the Photo Description box I get a warning box -
SYSTEM ERROR. See Error File for details.
Clicking this OK button, screen GA100S31 remains on-screen but windows behind it (catalog screens) clear.  Then clicking the CLOSE button on GA100S31 brings up message box - "Program Error - Variable 'PROGNAME' is not found." Clicking CANCEL or IGNORE buttons clears the screen and closes down IG Pro.

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 06, 2009, 10:34:55 AM
Laurie
(1)  Screen GA100S31
Right-clicking on Form -
(a)" Web Address" - nothing happens.

right click should close box down click at bottom of box not in picture, left click on a link and it should open up your browser to that page

(b)  Plant name box - clicking here first without having clicked in either of the other boxes does nothing, but if either of the other boxes are clicked and then clicking again in the Plant name box I get the warning box - SYSTEM ERROR. See Error File for details.
Clicking this OK button, screen GA100S31 remains on-screen but windows behind it (catalog screens) clear.  Then clicking the CLOSE button on GA100S31 brings up message box - "Program Error - Variable 'PROGNAME' is not found." Clicking CANCEL or IGNORE buttons clears the screen and closes down IG Pro.

same here george im afraid
 
(c)  "Photo Description" - clicking in here without having clicked in either of the other boxes does nothing, but if either of the other boxes are clicked in then clicking again in the Photo Description box I get a warning box -
SYSTEM ERROR. See Error File for details.
Clicking this OK button, screen GA100S31 remains on-screen but windows behind it (catalog screens) clear.  Then clicking the CLOSE button on GA100S31 brings up message box - "Program Error - Variable 'PROGNAME' is not found." Clicking CANCEL or IGNORE buttons clears the screen and closes down IG Pro.

same here aswell

bring back xp all is forgiven  :(
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 06, 2009, 10:41:13 AM
Quote from: ideasguy on February 05, 2009, 09:49:31 PM
RE:
Quote
buy online button works fine its just the plant info button
The odd thing is, they both access exactly the same web page.
The show info extracts the data from the web page.

Its not to do with you being on dial up. I'd be very surprised if that were the case.
Eric will be trying it soon, so we will wait to see if it works for him on dialup.

I hope its not a Vista thing!
Have any members tested it on Vista?
Feedback on that would be appreciated

Ah'm a-puzzled  :(

In the meantime (unless I get a flash of inspiration  ::)) just use the buy online button to get info on the plant (sorry).


no worries its all work in progress untill you actually release anything for download thats when you become aware of any problems that you may have overlooked not spotted not expected etc
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on February 06, 2009, 11:04:13 AM
Quote from: roiphil on February 06, 2009, 10:34:55 AM
Laurie
(1)  Screen GA100S31
Right-clicking on Form -
(a)" Web Address" - nothing happens.

right click should close box down click at bottom of box not in picture, left click on a link and it should open up your browser to that page
Phil, I didn't click on the photo as George had already said it didn't work yet.  George says that right-clicking anywhere on the Form should take you back to screen GA040S14, which it doesn't.  The hyperlinks in that Form work, but that wasn't the purpose of this exercise.

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 06, 2009, 11:26:53 AM
Thanks for the feedback Laurie and Phil
The System Errors in Screen GA100S31 will be easy to fix. An oversight on my part.
Let me know if you find anything else like that, please.

Meanwhile, The right click will work if you click in any grey are of the form, not on the controls (Text boxes, buttons, image etc)

To all:
Something to help reporting System Errors.
The VERY important information is:
a) which screen you were in
b) which button, image, text region etc you clicked

Ignore anything that comes up after you receive the System Error.
i.e report carefully what happened up to the system error. Don't report what happens after

What happens after?
a) When the program issues a system error, it closes down all database files.
That happens in ALL occasions you get a System Error

b) In most situations it will also close screens, leaving a blank screen (No Program selection screen).
The Menu bar at top of page is fully functional and you can continue in this mode.
To get back to normality, exit the system (e.g. IG) and start it again .

c) However, there are some errors that cannot be handled easily.
In those extreme cases, you may get a subsequent error (or two)

Those persistent errors (Case c) after a System Error are a a result of the program trying to continue.
Since all files are closed, it cant so anything (and you wont do any damage) and it keeps reporting errors
In such an event, the system can be like a dog with a rag doll - it jus' wont let go!
If you get anything like that, try taking the doll out of its mouth by clicking cancel, or Alt-Ctrl-Del and get out of the system and restart IG.
Clicking anything else (like continue or ignore) and you're playing with the doggie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 06, 2009, 12:26:29 PM
Quote from: Kathy & Laurie on February 06, 2009, 11:04:13 AM
Quote from: roiphil on February 06, 2009, 10:34:55 AM
Laurie
(1)  Screen GA100S31
Right-clicking on Form -
(a)" Web Address" - nothing happens.

right click should close box down click at bottom of box not in picture, left click on a link and it should open up your browser to that page
Phil, I didn't click on the photo as George had already said it didn't work yet.  George says that right-clicking anywhere on the Form should take you back to screen GA040S14, which it doesn't.  The hyperlinks in that Form work, but that wasn't the purpose of this exercise.

Laurie.


i found that if you right click at the right hand bottom of the form GA100S31 even by the close box or any other grey area as george has pointed out it closes that form and takes you back to the previous GA040S14, but its great fun clicking on these new buttons and seeeing what happens
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 06, 2009, 12:35:13 PM
I'll make it so that it will close down no matter what you click.
However, getting right-click to close the form on the image is a bit more difficult!
As you know, if you right click on a web image (which is what youve got hosted in screen GA100S31) you get to the properties dialog box.
I have to program to override that default event.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 06, 2009, 02:14:27 PM
Quote from: ideasguy on February 06, 2009, 12:35:13 PM
I'll make it so that it will close down no matter what you click.


does it realy matter because you have a close button on GA100S31 which speaks for itself, just my thoughts
Phil
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 06, 2009, 02:32:07 PM
The idea is that its right click in screen GA040S14 (to open GA100S31) and right click (somewhere!) in GA100S31 to close
Makes it faster and easier to get through the list
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 06, 2009, 07:50:34 PM
i follow now to make it nice and simple so as you dont have to look for the close button, question does the right click in screen GA040S14 only work when you right click in the little blue arrow box at bottom which selects next plant down or up to open up screen GA100S31 reason asking is because GA100S31 does not open if you select a plant manualy by right clicking on it yourself
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 06, 2009, 08:10:01 PM
RE:
Quote
question does the right click in screen GA040S14 only work when you right click in the little blue arrow box at bottom which selects next plant down or up to open up screen GA100S31 reason asking is because GA100S31 does not open if you select a plant manualy by right clicking on it yourself

Good idea!
You are right - Right click only worked on the Prev/Next arrows BUT Ive just made a change and made it work when you right click anywhere in the list.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 06, 2009, 08:35:09 PM
Quote from: ideasguy on February 06, 2009, 08:10:01 PM
RE:
Quote
question does the right click in screen GA040S14 only work when you right click in the little blue arrow box at bottom which selects next plant down or up to open up screen GA100S31 reason asking is because GA100S31 does not open if you select a plant manualy by right clicking on it yourself

Good idea!
You are right - Right click only worked on the Prev/Next arrows BUT Ive just made a change and made it work when you right click anywhere in the list.


i just love making extra work for you, you never know santa may send a pressy this year
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 06, 2009, 11:08:06 PM
Ha!

Heres the program update for GA040
http://www.ideasgenie.com/updates-igpro/GA048-dl.exe
GA040 Version 17

The screen called GA100S31 has been renamed (corrected)
Its now GA040S12

Most of the fields in GA040S12 are "right clickable" now, (not the image yet)
I have to say I'm glad you found those errors Laurie.
It works much better now, as its very easy to right click in the big text region

The right click in the plants list in GA100S14 (as suggested by Phil) is also working guys!

Footnote:
Dont right click on the Close button in GA040S12

You know why, dont you  ;)
In programs, right clicking on Close, escape, etc, buttons does a "Rapid Exit" (closes down) the program.
Rolling your mouse button takes you back to initial screen. 8)

Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 07, 2009, 06:38:08 PM
downloaded update went through installation process ok click on finish at end and get this error box

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s19/roiphil/Capturelabelig.jpg)

GA040S01 still version 15

Went through GA040S14 still same with web photo close down by clicking grey area,  right click in screen GA040S14 still only works when you right click in the little blue arrow box at bottom which selects next plant down or up to open up screen GA100S31

Phil
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 07, 2009, 07:29:17 PM
GA040
You need Version 17 before you see the latest changes, of course

RE:
Quote
downloaded update went through installation process ok click on finish at end and get this error box

Which download was that?
GA040?

To other members:
Have you downloaded Version 17?
Any problems like Phil?

Phil: Wait on report from other member(s) and if it worked for them, your problem could be caused by inomplete download, in which case, give it another go.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 07, 2009, 08:11:55 PM
Quote from: ideasguy on February 07, 2009, 07:29:17 PM
GA040
You need Version 17 before you see the latest changes, of course

RE:
Quote
downloaded update went through installation process ok click on finish at end and get this error box

Which download was that?
GA040?


this download
http://www.ideasgenie.com/updates-igpro/GA048-dl.exe
GA040 Version 17

this is very starange i just downloaded it again and message was file already exists do i wish to over write, clicked yes to all and finished installation ok with no error boxes, but GA040 is still version 15 with no changes to catalaog
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 07, 2009, 09:18:02 PM
Still version 15 for me too  :'(

Quote
The screen called GA100S31 has been renamed (corrected)
Its now GA040S12

Its still GA100S31

Used the link to the update you gave a few posts above.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on February 07, 2009, 09:37:51 PM
George and others:

Clarification required here -

GA040 I currently have is version 15.

GA048 I currently have is version 18.

Are the files being confused here?

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 07, 2009, 09:44:30 PM
Same as you describe here Laurie.

The link George gave in his post 6 up from here was to the wrong update.

Have tried downloasding GA040 from here http://www.ideasgenie.com/updates-igpro/
and still  Version 15

So appears George has not updated that file. A mix up with the label threads I reckon.

If I am wrong I shall be in trouble. ;D
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 07, 2009, 10:19:13 PM
More like I'm the one in trouble Malcolm  :)

GA048 is ver 18
We all agree on that

GA040 is Ver 17
Ive downloaded it and verified that is 17 on the download site
Strange things have been happening today!!

But, (confession) the web site index was showing it as 15
I knew about that.  :-[
I uploaded the program (Ver 17) late last night, didnt have time to refresh the index.
Ive fixed it just before posting this message so its OK now.
Download GA040 again. Id like to think you'll get Ver 17.
The problems shortcuts can create  :'(
I'm off to watch footie and sip a beer.




Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on February 07, 2009, 10:44:29 PM
Done the GA040 download and installed.  Confirming version 17.  8)

Enjoy your footie and your beer George.  :D

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 07, 2009, 11:18:40 PM

Version 17 here now as well.

Quote
But, (confession) the web site index was showing it as 15
I knew about that. 

You can't keep secrets George, we will find out. ;D
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 08, 2009, 12:07:05 AM
Now, you wont believe this, but I did NOT replace that download!
Its as it was last night.

Its been a weird day, what with Phil and a new FG customer in Canada.
Good to see it wasn't personal  ;D
What IS going on in this world of computers!

Had me beer, enjoyed the footie
Middlesborough deserved to win! I have a soft spot for them. They play well enough to win on many occasions and just dont get the rub of the green. Perhaps they need a few Irish playesrs in the squad  ;)

Tomorrow is another day  :)
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 08, 2009, 02:12:39 PM
GAO40 V17 YEE HAA  ;D OFF to play with labels now
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on February 08, 2009, 05:21:38 PM
Quote from: roiphil on February 08, 2009, 02:12:39 PM
GAO40 V17 YEE HAA  ;D OFF to play with labels now
It's so nice to see someone who's happy in their work.  :D

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 08, 2009, 06:36:03 PM
Quote
It's so nice to see someone who's happy in their work

Thanks to George.   ;)
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: roiphil on February 08, 2009, 07:44:19 PM
do what you enjoy and enjoy what you do  ;)
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 26, 2009, 08:37:42 PM
Historic announcement!

First order for seed on a mail Order printed from IG Pro and the Chiltern Catalog has been received at Chiltern.
I emailed Pat at Chiltern to say it was on its way. She informed the person who handles orders by post to look out for it,and it was duly received yesterday.
Pat emailed to say the order format was fine.

So, the first supply of seed using our new system is winging its way (emphasis on winging) to - guess who?
Well, the Boss of course! Lots of lovely new flowers from seed, and a pile of veggies for Toby this summer!
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 26, 2009, 09:46:02 PM

Quote
Lots of lovely new flowers from seed, and a pile of veggies for Toby this summer!

Does that mean we will be left here all on our own now?  :'(
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 26, 2009, 09:55:38 PM
Ha!

Ive read in the other thread that yours are already germinated Malcolm! We are playing catch-up.

Note to all: I'm now updateing the Chiltern Catalog to 2009 prices.
If anyone wishes to take advantage of the 2008 prices offer (as in the Catalog you folk have been testing) please let me know.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 26, 2009, 10:38:10 PM

Germinated and some now in their first pots  ;)

As mentioned before, we can't order anymore seeds this year, but certainly will use the programme for next years.

Malcolm
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 26, 2009, 11:22:49 PM
What delights are you growing Malcolm?
Another thing on my list is to allow a list of plant names to be extracted into text for answering awkward questions like that one!
It takes a while to make a list manually
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 27, 2009, 06:47:51 PM

Some of them George
Apologies for any wrong spellings  :o

.....................................................
Geranium sobolifera
Rhodochiton
Browallia speciosa
Belamacandra chinensis
Echinacea White Swan
Echium Pink Fountain
Mirabilis Jalapa
Echinacea Primadonna
Cestrum Lady of the Night
Agastache aurantiaca
Dahlia Bishops Children
Agastache Golden Jubilee
Ricnis New Zealand purple
Maurandia scandens
Cosmos sulphurus
Verbena corymbosa
Veronica longifolia
Campanula primulifolia
Azorina vidali
Lobelia tupa
Rudbeckia hirta
Cornflower
Cosmos sensation mix
Tomato sunsets red horizon
Tomato black tula
Tomato romanescoe
Tomato alicante
Pepper sweet chocolate
Pepper gypsy
Catalpa
Ipomoea Heavenly blue
Ipomoea Fuji mix
Ricnis communis

Malcolm

Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 27, 2009, 09:29:45 PM
Nice selection! If its not too personal a question, where did you buy from?

Snap on a number of seed:
Dahlia Bishops Children
Veronica longifolia
Cornflower
Ricinis communis


and I already have these 3:
Mirabilis Jalapa (has never flowered for me, in 2 seasons - bought as tubers. Might well be the Marvel of Peru, but not here in wet Ireland!)

Catalpa (grown from Chiltern seed! Now an 8ft small tree - no flowers/beans yet  :'()

Ricnis communis - grew these before (no doubt you have too). They were slow to grow, then leaped at end of season. Very VERY nice plants, lovely handsome architectural foliage and lovely flowers. Died over first winter. In fact, I lost my first early sowing when hit by a late frost, and they were well on in the cold greenhouse.

Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on February 27, 2009, 10:29:07 PM

Seeds from

Chiltern
Jungle seeds
Plant World
Some of our own

Mirabilis Jalapa we grew from seed early last year, flowered last summer in a pot, cut down and stored in same pot overwinter dry. Knocked out the pot last weekend, three huge tubers, potted up see if they do alright this year.

We have never been able to overwinter the Ricnis, but they are so easy to grow anyway, the New Zealand Purple is better than communis (I reckon.)

(http://www.plantguide.lynandmalc.co.uk/RICINISNEWZEALAND.JPG)
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on February 27, 2009, 11:42:05 PM
I love that New Zealand Purple ricinus and will try it this year!!
Just realised I didnt process all the plants on your webiste  :o and as a result dont have a link to that photo in the Chiltern Catalog!
I did a quick check and see it on your WPG Plants list, with very imformative notes   :)  :)

RE: Mirabilis Jalapa
The tubers - like big carrots? From memory, almost black?
Mine are outside all winter in that pot  ::) If they've survived that, then they are marvels, and I'll give them another chance  :D

Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on March 05, 2009, 10:55:25 AM
Another massive exercise now complete.
The Chiltern 2009 catalog is ready for download.

http://www.cultivars.co.uk/Catalogs/Chitern-dl.exe

Comments would be much appreciated!
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on March 17, 2009, 02:30:56 PM
We've just done our first Mail Order for seeds using George's Chiltern Seeds Catalog feature in IG Pro.

We used the 2008 catalog as we have been granted these prices for using the Mail Order/Snail Mail system.  If you order this way, Chiltern will see that the order has come from someone using the Catalog software, as the program produces an easily recognised Mail Order form.  If you order directly from Chiltern's web site you pay 2009 prices and they don't know the order has come from one of us.

It was a trouble-free procedure, so easy to do, and at the end of which we printed out the order form.  As a check, we compared the seeds that Kathy wanted in the 2008 Chiltern printed catalog they had sent us last year, and the Reference Numbers for each item matched those on our printed Order Form.  8)

If you're looking to buy some seeds this year, and you haven't already done so, give this catalog system a try.  George has put so much exhaustive work into getting this project to completion, that I think we owe him at least a token order.  This is the only way to make Chiltern see the benefits of supporting this system, and if successful enough maybe they will spread the word to other seed/plant suppliers to get on-board too.

The Order Form is in an envelope waiting to be posted.  A 4 to 7 day delivery time is quoted.

Laurie.
 
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: Lyn and Malcolm on December 05, 2009, 05:49:49 PM

Our order for Chiltern seeds has just now been produced by using Georges IGPro software.
First time I have used the ordering, as last year we had already sent our order before George had finished the software.

Found it easy to use, and particularly like the ability to Google the plant you want seeds of while compiling the order.

I do think the printout for the order should show that the order has been produced by IGPro, in a much more prominent way. It is quite small at the bottom of the page.

Thanks George

Malcolm
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: NightHawk on December 05, 2009, 06:05:19 PM
Quote from: Lyn and Malcolm on December 05, 2009, 05:49:49 PM
I do think the printout for the order should show that the order has been produced by IGPro, in a much more prominent way. It is quite small at the bottom of the page.
I think that is a very valid point Malcolm.

We used IG Pro last year to order seeds from Chiltern and, indeed, it was very simple to use.

Over to George to see what he thinks about his advertising layout on the Order Form ;)  (It seems you can never be too pushy these days  :D )

Laurie.
Title: Re: Demo for Chiltern Seeds
Post by: ideasguy on December 05, 2009, 09:15:03 PM
Thats great Malcolm, and thanks for reviving this topic.
.
I should explain that Malcolm and I have been communicating by email about his seed order for 2010.
I enquired when he normally ordered his seed, as I wanted to try and revive this project this year.
The reply came back that he was using the software to do it now!

OK, got to get a move on in case others are in the same rush and explain whats happening!

Ive been in contact with Pat at Chiltern Seeds discussing this project.
They downloaded the Flower Genie software and the Chiltern (downloadable) Catalog during the summer.

The response was:
Quote
...as a company, Chiltern Seeds do not propose investing financially into putting our catalogue onto a CD or indeed incorporating it into any other electronic format other than the Chiltern Seeds website. 
and further in the email:
Quote
However, if you so wish, we are grateful and happy for you to include our products in your database and developing software, along with products from other companies that you are also in communication with.

Having spent at least 12 months developing the Catalogs software, and at least three months producing the Chilten catalog for 2009, I have decided to continue to include the Chiltern Products in the downloadable Catalog listings for 2010.

Earlier this week Pat informed me it will be a couple of weeks before the 2010 catalog is ready. When received,I'll apply the changes and get it published as a download.

Knowing some folk placed their orders very early last year ;) I asked if the same offer negotiated last year could be applied for 2010.
The answer was Yes, provided there is a reference to our software somewhere on the order.

So, heres the details of the offer and how to take advantage of it:
a) Order from the 2009 downloadable Catalog using Ideas Genie,Flower Genie or Bonsai Genie software
b) produce a Hard Copy order using the software (there is a reference at the bottom of the page - albeit small)
c) pay by cheque
d) post (snail mail) the order and cheque to Chiltern Seeds

If you use the software to order on line, the shopping cart will charge 2010 prices.
There is no method (that I know of) that will indicate that customers have used the IG software to order on line.
Ive asked Pat if it was possible for users to enter a Code of some kind to identify the origin of the sale.

I would be very grateful for your support in this project. If it looks promising and folk show interest,I will approach other seed suppliers and plant suppliers to offer a similar demo.

RE:
Quote
Over to George to see what he thinks about his advertising layout on the Order Form
I'm quite happy as long as it appears at the bottom of that page, Malcolm and Laurie.
The order form itself is pretty distinctive, so Chiltern will have no problem recognising it.

I'm delighted you found it easy to use, Malcolm! That is a huge relief.
Theres more I could do to improve it, but there would be more incentive if others get as enthusiastic about it as me.
e.g. Ive loads of photos to process yet, and as you know its the visuals that sell plants.

Thanks again all!