CakePHP Private messaging system - php

Question

I am just wondering if anyone can get me started in writing a private messaging system on the CakePHP framework. I am aiming for something similar to the Facebook inbox system. Of course it doesnt have to be as complicated!
I currently have a AUTH system with users whom can log on and off.

Answer 1

The simplest way would be to just create a messages database table with at the very least, five columns: id, sender_id, recipient_id, subject, body. You can then also add other columns you desire, such as created.
You can then set up your controller as follows:
<?php
class MessagesController extends AppController {
public function inbox() {
$messages = $this->Message->find('all', array(
'conditions' => array(
'recipient_id' => $this->Auth->user('id')
)
));
}
public function outbox() {
$messages = $this->Message->find('all', array(
'conditions' => array(
'sender_id' => $this->Auth->user('id')
)
));
}
public function compose() {
if ($this->request->is('post')) {
$this->request->data['Message']['sender_id'] = $this->Auth->user('id');
if ($this->Message->save($this->request->data)) {
$this->Session->setFlash('Message successfully sent.');
$this->redirect(array('action' => 'outbox'));
}
}
}
}
Obviously you'll need to flesh this example out, and change anything that may not apply to your application. You'll also need to add in checks for if the user is friends with the person they're trying to message if you want that as well.