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Function: Run a PHP project locally and deliver the results

Hassan
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A client asked: I'm working on a PHP project, but we're running into a problem—it won't run on local machines. I've tried several different approaches, but it's still not responding, and the cause hasn't been identified yet. It would be very helpful if you could try running the project on your system. I can send you all the necessary files so you can test it directly. If it works, we'd like to explore a long-term collaboration.


Workflow diagram illustrating eight steps to run a PHP project locally: gather requirements, set up XAMPP or Docker Compose, install Composer dependencies, configure environment files, start the server, debug errors, document issues, and deliver results.


Detailed explanation and steps on how to complete the work

Step-by-Step Guide to Running a PHP Project Locally and Delivering the Results

1. Gathering Requirements and Information

  • Ask the client to share all project files, including source code, configuration files (e.g., .env), and Composer files.

  • Confirm the required PHP version and any extensions (for example, pdo_mysql, mbstring), as well as the web server type and version (Apache or Nginx).

  • Obtain database connection details (type, version—MySQL, MariaDB, or PostgreSQL) and any SQL dump for the schema and seed data.

2. Setting Up the Local Development Environment

Option A: Use a Prepackaged Stack (XAMPP / MAMP / Laragon)

  1. Install your chosen environment and start Apache and MySQL services.
  2. Place the project folder inside htdocs (XAMPP) or the equivalent www directory.
  3. Create a new local database with the same name as the client’s database, then import the provided SQL dump.

Option B: Use Docker Compose

  1. Create a docker-compose.yml file defining PHP, MySQL, and Nginx (or Apache) services.
  2. Store environment variables in a .env file, ensuring they match the service definitions.
  3. Launch the containers:
    docker-compose up -d
  4. Import the SQL dump:
    docker exec -i mysql_container_name \
      mysql -u user -p database_name < dump.sql

3. Installing Dependencies with Composer

  1. Open a terminal inside the project directory.
  2. Run:
    composer install --no-interaction --optimize-autoloader
  3. Verify that no errors appear during installation.

4. Configuring Environment and Config Files

  • Open the .env or config.php file and set DB_HOST, DB_PORT, DB_DATABASE, DB_USERNAME, and DB_PASSWORD.

  • Check any directory paths (for example, session storage or temporary file folders) and adjust them if needed.

5. Starting the Local Server and Testing the Project

  1. With XAMPP/MAMP:

    • Start Apache and MySQL from the control panel.
    • Visit http://localhost/project_folder in your browser.

  2. With Docker Compose:

    • Ensure the web service is running:
      docker-compose ps
    • Open the URL mapped in the ports section (for example, http://localhost:8080).

6. Debugging

  • Enable debug mode (for example, set APP_DEBUG=true in .env).

  • Review error logs (logs/error.log or the web server logs at /var/log/apache2/error.log).

  • Test core features—login, data retrieval, record creation—to ensure each works without exceptions.

7. Documenting Issues and Solutions

Create a Word or Markdown document that includes:

  • A list of errors encountered when running the project locally.
  • Technical explanations for each error (probable cause, file and line number).
  • Actions taken to attempt fixes (configuration changes, dependency updates).

8. Delivering Results and Reporting to the Client

  1. Commit or export your final changes (for example, update composer.json or config files), then package the project as a ZIP or push to a new Git branch.

  2. Attach a detailed report covering:

    • The setup steps you followed.
    • Issues resolved and any remaining items that require client input.
    • Recommendations for improving the environment (Docker usage, permission adjustments, version upgrades).

  3. Send the client the download link or repository URL, inviting them to review the report and discuss a long-term collaboration.

By following these steps, you will replicate the client’s environment accurately, uncover the root causes of any malfunctions, and deliver a well-documented, deployment-ready solution. 

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