Python Set up

Why You Need Python to Collaborate

Our software is built using Python, a powerful, open-source programming language that’s easy to learn and widely used around the world. Here’s why having Python on your system is important for using and collaborating on our programs:

1. Running the Programs:

Our applications are written in Python, which means you need Python installed on your computer to run them. By setting up Python, you ensure that you can use our tools—whether it’s our Point of Sale system, Invoice Generator, or any other software we offer—smoothly and reliably.

2. Customization and Flexibility:

Python is known for its simplicity and readability, making it accessible even for beginners. With Python, you can easily customize and modify the software to better fit your specific needs. Whether you want to add new features, fix small bugs, or integrate our tools with other systems, Python gives you the freedom to do so.

3. Collaboration and Community:

By using Python, you join a global community of developers and users who are continually improving and innovating technology. When you collaborate with code, you help shape the future of our projects. Contributions from users like you can lead to faster updates, more robust features, and software that truly serves the community’s needs.

4. Empowering Local Innovation:

For small business owners, farmers, and local entrepreneurs—especially in areas with limited resources—Python offers a cost-effective way to manage and enhance your operations. Learning even the basics of Python can empower you to adapt our tools, share your improvements, and contribute to a growing ecosystem of solutions that work offline and under resource constraints.

5. Transparency and Trust:

Our code is open-source, meaning you can inspect, modify, and share it. This transparency builds trust and allows anyone with Python knowledge to contribute, making our projects stronger and more resilient over time.

By installing Python and learning a bit about how it works, you’re not just a user—you become part of a vibrant community that can actively improve and tailor the software to better meet real-world needs. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a curious beginner, your contribution matters.

Below you will find a basic guide on how to set up Python and run any application on Windows or Linux distributions:

Installing Python on Windows:

1. Open your web browser and go to the official Python website: https://www.python.org/downloads/windows/

2. Download the latest Python 3.x installer (for example, “Python 3.10.x”).

3. Run the installer. IMPORTANT: Before clicking “Install Now,” check the box labeled “Add Python 3.x to PATH.”

4. Complete the installation by following the on-screen instructions.

5. To verify the installation, open Command Prompt (type “cmd” in the Start menu) and run:

python --version

You should see the installed Python version.

Installing Python on Linux:

For Debian/Ubuntu-based distributions:

1. Open a terminal.

2. Update your package list:

sudo apt update

3. Install Python 3 along with pip and the virtual environment module:

sudo apt install python3 python3-venv python3-pip

4. Verify the installation by running:

python3 --version

For Fedora/CentOS/RHEL:

1. Open a terminal.

2. Install Python 3 and pip:

sudo dnf install python3 python3-venv python3-pip

3. Verify the installation:

python3 --version

Launching a Python Program (Any Program) from the Command Line:

1. Open Command Prompt (Windows) or a terminal (Linux).

2. Navigate to the directory where your Python script is located using the cd command.

3. Run your Python script:

• On Windows, type:

python your_script.py

• On Linux, you may need to type:

python3 your_script.py

This will launch the Python program.

Quick Guide to Using PyCharm Community Edition:

1. Download and Install:

• Visit the JetBrains PyCharm download page: https://www.jetbrains.com/pycharm/download/

• Download the Community Edition (it’s free) and run the installer. Follow the instructions on screen.

2. Creating or Opening a Project:

• Open PyCharm after installation.

• If you’re starting a new project, select “New Project” and choose a location. PyCharm will let you create a new virtual environment for your project.

• To open an existing Python project, choose “Open” and navigate to the folder that contains your project files.

3. Running a Python Script:

• In the Project Explorer (usually on the left side), locate your Python file (e.g., your_script.py).

• Right-click the file and select “Run ‘your_script’” from the context menu.

• The output will appear in the Run window at the bottom of PyCharm.

4. Optional – Configuring a Virtual Environment:

• Go to File > Settings > Project: [YourProjectName] > Python Interpreter.

• Click the gear icon and choose “Add…” to create a new virtual environment. This helps keep your project dependencies isolated.