Just as there are many different types of virtual shopping carts on the market today, the ways in which these carts function also differ. Some work by using simple data collection forms and passing the information through the URL of the Web store. Others work by storing the customer's shopping cart in a database on the Web store's server. Further still, many work by using "cookies" - small pieces of information sent by a Web store's server to a customer's Web browser - so that it can be read back from that browser. Each method in and of itself has its advantages and disadvantages.
While relatively easy to implement, passing the information through the URL of the Web store involves using form variables in the URL and a listening CGI component on the Web store side. This method by itself can be messy, as URLs can get cluttered and unorganized.
Storing the customer's shopping cart in a database on the server allows Web store owners to see the existing shopping carts at any time, before or after purchase. This information can be valuable, allowing Web store administrators to gauge future product needs - based on the contents of shopping carts belonging to customers who, for whatever reason, did not complete the checkout process on their last visit, but may intend to complete the process at a later date.
When using cookies, a virtual shopping cart can be stored in the customer's Web browser, instead of on the server - eliminating any database maintenance that is necessary when using the above option - and thus also eliminating any potential functionality issues.
