The Common Gateway Interface (or CGI) is what allows us to give a web site interactivity with the user. We can use CGI scripts to gather user data and automate functions on a web server which make use of that data, such as populating a database, taking online payment, sending out timed emails and so on. The techniques of CGI programming allows us to turn a plain informational website into a fully interactive experience for the user, and it is the feature which allows us to automate website functionality. This relieves the Internet Business owner of many simple tasks so they can concentrate on important business issues such as customer service, marketing and developing new products.

If you look at the name - Common Gateway Interface - this does not indicate that a particular programming language should be used. In fact any programming language which can run on your web server can be used to implement CGI scripts. CGI programming can be done with popular languages such as C++ and Perl, as well as more modern languages such as PHP and Java. It does not really matter too much which language is used (minor technical issues aside) providing the resulting CGI script or program does the job effectively, efficiently and securely.

If you are going to choose a web developer to create your web site you will need to check which language they intend to use and verify that they have appropriate skills and experience for that language. You must also check that your final choice for hosting your web site is capable of supporting the chosen language (most are capable of supporting the CGI programming languages mentioned above) and any other technology used such as databases.

If you decide you want to develop your own CGI scripts then take a look at our resource pages for each language. Just click on the links below to find CGI scripts and CGI programming resources.

Using these tutorial and CGI script resources, you should be able to find enough resources to help you develop your website in the way you want. Also why not also look at the training in the Internet Business Development Suite which will give you the knowledge and tools to develop an effective web site which gives your visitors what they want? In the Internet Business Development Suite we look at the key elements of structure, navigation, and content which constitutes good web page design. We also look at the types of web components you might employ, background business processes needed, and how to choose web developers and web hosts.