Yes it's
harder to work with than Java. Yes it's at
times difficult to understand. When something
goes wrong it could be disastrous. You need
all of the libraries and lots of other
software running on the server. I'm sure
there are also many more problems with it
that can cause people to cringe when you
mention it. Yes it's all true. What else is
true is that when it's up and running,
nothing and I mean nothing beats it. Forget
about Java, Dynamic HTML and all the other
add-ons, helpers and substitute nothing comes
close to a web site with well written and
installed Perl with CGI.
What flusters most webmasters is the
installation. Everything has to be just so
and in a strict adherence to semantics and
syntax that CGI/Perl and sometimes only
CGI/Perl understands, and that's true. You
must be sure that everything is just so. That
your server has the right Perl on it. That
locations are right and a seemingly thousand
other details are done right to make it work.
However things have changed in the last
couple of years. Most scripts have been
improved and servers are no longer just the
realm of UNIX gurus in wizard robes ruling
the roost. This doesn't mean you can make
mistakes, just that there is far less input
needed from you to get the script installed
and running.
All of the
scripts here have clear instructions. As long
as your server is properly set up (all
require Perl 5) and you are aware of the
correct paths and Url's you can have these up
and running in a reasonable amount of time.
Pay attention to the read me files (RTFM) and
do things one step at a time. Make sure the
Pete brothers (Pete and Repeat) are on hand.
Check and double check your work and it will
be a worthwhile and rewarding experience.
Especially when you are complimented on
having a well functioning web site. A artful
and beautiful web site is like a broken Rolls
Royce. Nothing is more saddening than looking
at one broke down at the side of the road.
One key to
remember and it should be the most important.
All you are doing is implementing a script
that is giving your computer directions. A
good example is a macro. A good one written
well will save you a lot of time and produce
grade A work in say Word for Win. A poor one
can ruin all of your work. A CGI script is
really the same thing.
Give it a
try.Most web site host have a sandbox around
your site so you can't shut the entire server
down. It may take some time but in the end
well worth it.
