[REQUEST]Add Instructions for Alternative Backends and Architecture Diagrams

[Umeshinduranga]

Problem: The docs don’t explain how to use alternative backends like Supabase, and there are no diagrams showing how the system works.

Suggestion:

1. Add step-by-step instructions for integrating with Supabase or other backends.
2. Include simple diagrams showing the data flow and system architecture for different hosting options.

Why:

1. Helps new users set up the project easily.
2. Makes the project easier to understand and use.

[MrDomertp]

Hey, that's a fantastic idea! I've also been struggling for ages trying to get Streetmerchant working with Supabase. The documentation just kind of dances around the issue, without giving you any concrete steps. It'd be awesome to have some clear instructions: you change this here, connect that there.

And it would also be great to see a general diagram of how everything works, especially if you're hosting it not just locally, but, say, in the cloud with Supabase. You know, to understand where the data is flowing and how to connect it all. That would seriously make life easier for those who are just starting to figure out the project.

[Umeshinduranga]

Thanks! Glad you feel the same. Clear Supabase steps and a diagram would really help new users. I can try to put together a draft guide, and happy to get your input too.

[waleedlatif1]

@MrDomertp @Umeshinduranga hey! setting it up with supabase is actually 95% done on supabase, but we can add some self-hosting guides on how to host sim and connect it to supabase.

but in the meantime, toy just need to create a project on supabase and can copy the DATABASE_URL from the little 'connect' button at the top of your supabase project to the .env in Sim.

[Umeshinduranga]

@waleedlatif1 Thanks for jumping in! I'll try the DATABASE_URL approach you mentioned.

Just to confirm I should:

1. Create a Supabase project
2. Copy the DATABASE_URL from the 'connect' button
3. Add it to my .env file as DATABASE_URL=<copied_url>

I'll test this out and report back. If it works smoothly, would you still be open to adding some documentation about this process? Even though it's mostly handled by Supabase, having it documented would help future users avoid the confusion we had.