SuiteCommerce Advanced Models and Data Handling in Commerce

SuiteCommerce Advanced (SCA) facilitates effective eCommerce operations by integrating with data stored in NetSuite. During a shopping session, SCA performs several key data-related actions, which include:

• Reading data from NetSuite records (e.g., item details are retrieved from the item record).
• Updating data based on user actions (e.g., order information written to the order record after user checkout).
• Receiving new data from user input (e.g., adding addresses to the Address Book updates the NetSuite address record).

How Does SCA Handle Data?

SCA processes data on both the frontend and backend, ensuring seamless interactions:

Frontend

• The frontend is responsible for presenting data to users and collecting their input. This is managed by frontend models and collections.

Backend

• The backend manages the transfer of data to and from NetSuite through services and backend models.

Understanding Frontend Models

Frontend models in SCA are integral to how the application presents data. Developed with the Backbone.js framework, these models follow the MVC paradigm:

• Each frontend model extends Backbone.Model, inheriting core methods defined within BackboneExtras. Custom implementations often override methods to cater to specific needs.

Best Practice Note

If you are customizing SCA for 2020.1 or later, it is recommended to use SCModel instead of Backbone.Model. SCModel is tailored to SuiteCommerce and inherits from Backbone.Model but is optimized for SCA features.

Creating and Using Models

Models in SCA can be structured in various ways:

1. Feature-specific models: Defined by returning an object containing the model:
   javascriptCopy

   return Backbone.Model.extend

2. Application-wide models: Created and populated upon initialization, which can be accessed elsewhere:
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   ProfileModel = Backbone.Model.extend

   • Such models are typically defined as singletons, ensuring a single instance per user session.

By understanding these primary concepts of SuiteCommerce Advanced, developers can better manage data flow, enhance user experiences, and leverage the full potential of the platform.

Who This Affects

This information is valuable for the following roles:

• Developers
• eCommerce Administrators
• Product Managers

Key Takeaways

• SCA effectively integrates with NetSuite data for enhanced eCommerce functionality.
• Models and services play crucial roles in data handling and user interactions.
• Customizing SCA requires understanding of both frontend and backend models, especially for versions 2020.1 and later.