The multilevel product extra fields module extends the functionality of products with options for the product information pages of e-commerce stores, when ordering products and during products input/editing from the administration end of your e-commerce store.

Benefits of using multilevel nested fields

Merchants can specify different product fields and sub-fields using the products editing page. Multi-Level extra fields has several configuration options where product types can be specified in a hierarchical structure, in essence generating nested product extra fields. The multi-level approach allows for multi-page forms to be generated automatically on the product information page on the catalog end via drop-down selections or via an expanded table of all possible combinations. It offers easy selection and maximum navigation detail to customers, who browse products with options and eases product options assignment on the back end.

Hierarchical Product Extra Fields Concept

Each product extra field may have a number of predefined options, where the administrator can specify various field options. These predefined options are presented as drop-down boxes when editing the product details. There are two configuration levels for the extra fields module

At the first level a multilevel extra field is created with a unique name and has options to manage stock, image and options price, thus each field can optionally be associated with a price tag, image file and a separate stock level.

At the second level the hierarchy of the extra fields is specified via the products edit page, where the nested product extra fields structure is defined. There is a dual Extra Fields hierarchy which allows the administrator to create a category-like structure among fields define the nested product attributes. The module includes a template fields system where nested fields can be stored and reloaded for different products when needed. This method speeds up fields assignment.

Combinations of product options on the catalog end, are generated automatically. Each field is linked to a parent field where the system emulates a virtual directory structure that can then mapped to a product. It is called virtual, because each product may deploy a different fields structure and different option values.

When a field is out of stock the product cannot be processed with the field's selection neither can be added to the shopping cart. Instead, a notice is displayed to the customer via the product information page about the error. By default, out of stock fields are not displayed on the product information page.

Multi-Level Products Extra Fields Integration

The integration work of multilevel product extra fields includes adjustments to the orders script, invoice, packing slip, shopping cart, orders classes and product information page of the osCommerce platform.

Based on customer requirements, options can include but not limited, wizard like forms, radio lists, drop-down selections, import/export in CSV format for external options editing. All customizations depend on the type of online store you have and the most appropriate method is advised when requesting this service.

Multi-Level extra fields can be integrated with the I-Metrics layer and with the stock osCommerce MS2.2. The original product attributes module operates independently although the Multilevel Extra Fields can fully accommodate the original attribute options. Effectively your ecommerce store has nested attributes or sub-options that comprise various sets where each set is separately applied and configured at the product level.