I was wondering how realistic it would be to manipulate php so it works more than just a web application?
Let me elaborate...
I am looking into creating a "program" that is run mostly on php and mysql.
Users would interact with it as though it was a web application ( ie. through the web browser ), however it will do more than just save to a database or return information.
I want it so it runs off one server, accessed by other PC's on the network, but will have the ability to print to printers, read from bar scanners, etc.
You may wonder why I'd want to do it in php and not a proper programming language, but this is because I like the idea of how easy it is to change the code etc.
Ideally my question is, is this achievable with just php and mysql or would I need more ( such as ruby on rails etc ).
I'm still a novice and haven't work with php much in the real world so if this question is an obvious yes or no please excuse me.