From 3d769837d47943e32e6c07f07fb23a78758b28e8 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001
From: Jonny Ervine <jonny@ervine.org>
Date: Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:21:58 +0800
Subject: [PATCH] Update to support py venv

---
 motm_app/.gitignore             | 150 +++++++++++++++++++
 motm_app/README.md              | 124 ++++++++++++++++
 motm_app/SETUP_GUIDE.md         | 213 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++
 motm_app/VIRTUAL_ENV_GUIDE.md   | 254 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
 motm_app/activate_motm.bat      |  10 ++
 motm_app/activate_motm.sh       |  11 ++
 motm_app/run_motm.bat           |   5 +
 motm_app/run_motm.sh            |   5 +
 motm_app/setup_venv.ps1         | 148 +++++++++++++++++++
 motm_app/setup_venv.py          | 224 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
 motm_app/setup_venv_windows.bat |  71 +++++++++
 11 files changed, 1215 insertions(+)
 create mode 100644 motm_app/.gitignore
 create mode 100644 motm_app/SETUP_GUIDE.md
 create mode 100644 motm_app/VIRTUAL_ENV_GUIDE.md
 create mode 100644 motm_app/activate_motm.bat
 create mode 100644 motm_app/activate_motm.sh
 create mode 100644 motm_app/run_motm.bat
 create mode 100644 motm_app/run_motm.sh
 create mode 100644 motm_app/setup_venv.ps1
 create mode 100644 motm_app/setup_venv.py
 create mode 100644 motm_app/setup_venv_windows.bat

diff --git a/motm_app/.gitignore b/motm_app/.gitignore
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6734f2c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/.gitignore
@@ -0,0 +1,150 @@
+# Virtual Environment
+venv/
+env/
+ENV/
+.venv/
+.env/
+
+# Python
+__pycache__/
+*.py[cod]
+*$py.class
+*.so
+.Python
+build/
+develop-eggs/
+dist/
+downloads/
+eggs/
+.eggs/
+lib/
+lib64/
+parts/
+sdist/
+var/
+wheels/
+pip-wheel-metadata/
+share/python-wheels/
+*.egg-info/
+.installed.cfg
+*.egg
+MANIFEST
+
+# PyInstaller
+*.manifest
+*.spec
+
+# Installer logs
+pip-log.txt
+pip-delete-this-directory.txt
+
+# Unit test / coverage reports
+htmlcov/
+.tox/
+.nox/
+.coverage
+.coverage.*
+.cache
+nosetests.xml
+coverage.xml
+*.cover
+*.py,cover
+.hypothesis/
+.pytest_cache/
+
+# Translations
+*.mo
+*.pot
+
+# Django stuff:
+*.log
+local_settings.py
+db.sqlite3
+db.sqlite3-journal
+
+# Flask stuff:
+instance/
+.webassets-cache
+
+# Scrapy stuff:
+.scrapy
+
+# Sphinx documentation
+docs/_build/
+
+# PyBuilder
+target/
+
+# Jupyter Notebook
+.ipynb_checkpoints
+
+# IPython
+profile_default/
+ipython_config.py
+
+# pyenv
+.python-version
+
+# pipenv
+Pipfile.lock
+
+# PEP 582
+__pypackages__/
+
+# Celery stuff
+celerybeat-schedule
+celerybeat.pid
+
+# SageMath parsed files
+*.sage.py
+
+# Environments
+.env
+.venv
+env/
+venv/
+ENV/
+env.bak/
+venv.bak/
+
+# Spyder project settings
+.spyderproject
+.spyproject
+
+# Rope project settings
+.ropeproject
+
+# mkdocs documentation
+/site
+
+# mypy
+.mypy_cache/
+.dmypy.json
+dmypy.json
+
+# Pyre type checker
+.pyre/
+
+# IDE
+.vscode/
+.idea/
+*.swp
+*.swo
+*~
+
+# OS
+.DS_Store
+.DS_Store?
+._*
+.Spotlight-V100
+.Trashes
+ehthumbs.db
+Thumbs.db
+
+# Application specific
+*.db
+*.sqlite
+config.py
+.env.local
+.env.production
+
diff --git a/motm_app/README.md b/motm_app/README.md
index b83551a..b698299 100644
--- a/motm_app/README.md
+++ b/motm_app/README.md
@@ -18,6 +18,84 @@ This is a standalone Flask application for managing Man of the Match and Dick of
 
 ## Installation
 
+### Option 1: Using Virtual Environment (Recommended)
+
+**Windows Setup:**
+
+1. **Create virtual environment**:
+```cmd
+python -m venv venv
+```
+   *If `python` doesn't work, try `py` or use the full path to python.exe*
+
+2. **Activate virtual environment**:
+```cmd
+venv\Scripts\activate.bat
+```
+
+3. **Install dependencies**:
+```cmd
+pip install --upgrade pip
+pip install -r requirements.txt
+```
+
+4. **Run the application**:
+```cmd
+python main.py
+```
+
+**Unix/Linux/Mac Setup:**
+
+1. **Create virtual environment**:
+```bash
+python3 -m venv venv
+```
+
+2. **Activate virtual environment**:
+```bash
+source venv/bin/activate
+```
+
+3. **Install dependencies**:
+```bash
+pip install --upgrade pip
+pip install -r requirements.txt
+```
+
+4. **Run the application**:
+```bash
+python main.py
+```
+
+**Convenience Scripts:**
+- After setup, you can use `activate_motm.bat` (Windows) or `source activate_motm.sh` (Unix)
+- Or use `run_motm.bat` (Windows) or `./run_motm.sh` (Unix) to start directly
+
+### Option 2: Manual Virtual Environment Setup
+
+1. **Create virtual environment**:
+```bash
+python -m venv venv
+```
+
+2. **Activate virtual environment**:
+   - **Windows**: `venv\Scripts\activate`
+   - **Unix/Linux/Mac**: `source venv/bin/activate`
+
+3. **Install dependencies**:
+```bash
+pip install -r requirements.txt
+```
+
+4. **Configure database settings** in `db_config.py`
+
+5. **Run the application**:
+```bash
+python main.py
+```
+
+### Option 3: Global Installation (Not Recommended)
+
 1. Install dependencies:
 ```bash
 pip install -r requirements.txt
@@ -100,3 +178,49 @@ Update the following in `db_config.py`:
 - Local database settings
 
 The application uses the same database as the main hockey results system, so ensure proper database access is configured.
+
+## Virtual Environment Management
+
+### Development Workflow
+
+1. **Activate virtual environment** before making changes:
+   - Windows: `activate_motm.bat` or `venv\Scripts\activate`
+   - Unix/Linux/Mac: `source activate_motm.sh` or `source venv/bin/activate`
+
+2. **Install new packages**:
+```bash
+pip install new-package-name
+```
+
+3. **Update requirements.txt** after adding packages:
+```bash
+pip freeze > requirements.txt
+```
+
+4. **Deactivate** when done:
+```bash
+deactivate
+```
+
+### Virtual Environment Benefits
+
+- **Isolation**: Dependencies won't conflict with other Python projects
+- **Version Control**: Pin specific package versions for reproducibility
+- **Clean Environment**: Easy to recreate if corrupted
+- **Deployment**: Same environment can be replicated in production
+
+### Troubleshooting
+
+**Virtual environment not activating?**
+- Ensure Python 3.7+ is installed
+- Check file permissions on activation scripts
+- Try recreating: `python setup_venv.py`
+
+**Dependencies not found?**
+- Activate virtual environment first
+- Check if packages are installed: `pip list`
+- Reinstall requirements: `pip install -r requirements.txt`
+
+**Permission errors on Unix/Linux/Mac?**
+- Make scripts executable: `chmod +x *.sh`
+- Run with proper permissions
diff --git a/motm_app/SETUP_GUIDE.md b/motm_app/SETUP_GUIDE.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a8628f0
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/SETUP_GUIDE.md
@@ -0,0 +1,213 @@
+# MOTM Application - Virtual Environment Setup Guide
+
+This guide will help you set up a Python virtual environment for the MOTM Flask application.
+
+## Prerequisites
+
+1. **Python 3.7 or higher** must be installed on your system
+2. **pip** package manager should be available
+
+## Quick Setup (Windows)
+
+### Step 1: Check Python Installation
+
+Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and run:
+```cmd
+python --version
+```
+
+If Python is not found, you may need to:
+- Install Python from [python.org](https://www.python.org/downloads/)
+- Or use `py` command if you have Python Launcher installed
+
+### Step 2: Create Virtual Environment
+
+Navigate to the `motm_app` directory and run:
+
+**Option A: Using `python` command**
+```cmd
+python -m venv venv
+```
+
+**Option B: Using `py` command (if available)**
+```cmd
+py -m venv venv
+```
+
+**Option C: Using full path (if needed)**
+```cmd
+C:\Python39\python.exe -m venv venv
+```
+
+### Step 3: Activate Virtual Environment
+
+**Windows Command Prompt:**
+```cmd
+venv\Scripts\activate.bat
+```
+
+**Windows PowerShell:**
+```powershell
+venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1
+```
+
+### Step 4: Install Dependencies
+
+With the virtual environment activated:
+```cmd
+pip install --upgrade pip
+pip install -r requirements.txt
+```
+
+### Step 5: Run the Application
+
+```cmd
+python main.py
+```
+
+The application will be available at: http://localhost:5000
+
+## Quick Setup (Unix/Linux/Mac)
+
+### Step 1: Create Virtual Environment
+```bash
+python3 -m venv venv
+```
+
+### Step 2: Activate Virtual Environment
+```bash
+source venv/bin/activate
+```
+
+### Step 3: Install Dependencies
+```bash
+pip install --upgrade pip
+pip install -r requirements.txt
+```
+
+### Step 4: Run the Application
+```bash
+python main.py
+```
+
+## Using the Convenience Scripts
+
+After setting up the virtual environment, you can use the provided scripts:
+
+### Windows
+- **Setup**: `setup_venv_windows.bat`
+- **Activate**: `activate_motm.bat`
+- **Run**: `run_motm.bat`
+
+### Unix/Linux/Mac
+- **Activate**: `source activate_motm.sh`
+- **Run**: `./run_motm.sh`
+
+## Troubleshooting
+
+### Python Not Found
+
+**Windows:**
+1. Install Python from [python.org](https://www.python.org/downloads/)
+2. During installation, check "Add Python to PATH"
+3. Restart your command prompt
+
+**Alternative for Windows:**
+1. Install Python from Microsoft Store
+2. Use `py` command instead of `python`
+
+### Virtual Environment Issues
+
+**Permission Errors (Windows):**
+```cmd
+# Try running as Administrator
+# Or use PowerShell with execution policy
+Set-ExecutionPolicy -ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned -Scope CurrentUser
+```
+
+**Virtual Environment Already Exists:**
+```cmd
+# Remove existing environment
+rmdir /s venv
+# Or on Unix/Linux/Mac
+rm -rf venv
+```
+
+### Dependencies Not Installing
+
+1. **Activate virtual environment first**
+2. **Upgrade pip**: `pip install --upgrade pip`
+3. **Install individually**: `pip install Flask`
+4. **Check internet connection**
+5. **Try using --user flag**: `pip install --user -r requirements.txt`
+
+### Application Not Starting
+
+1. **Check virtual environment is activated** (should see `(venv)` in prompt)
+2. **Verify all dependencies installed**: `pip list`
+3. **Check for import errors**: `python -c "import flask"`
+4. **Review error messages** in console output
+
+## Development Workflow
+
+### Daily Usage
+1. **Activate environment**: `venv\Scripts\activate.bat` (Windows) or `source venv/bin/activate` (Unix)
+2. **Make changes** to your code
+3. **Test application**: `python main.py`
+4. **Deactivate when done**: `deactivate`
+
+### Adding New Packages
+1. **Activate environment**
+2. **Install package**: `pip install new-package`
+3. **Update requirements**: `pip freeze > requirements.txt`
+4. **Commit changes** to version control
+
+### Updating Dependencies
+1. **Activate environment**
+2. **Update packages**: `pip install --upgrade package-name`
+3. **Update requirements**: `pip freeze > requirements.txt`
+
+## Environment Variables
+
+If you need to set environment variables for the application:
+
+**Windows:**
+```cmd
+set DATABASE_URL=your_database_url
+python main.py
+```
+
+**Unix/Linux/Mac:**
+```bash
+export DATABASE_URL=your_database_url
+python main.py
+```
+
+## Database Configuration
+
+Make sure to update `db_config.py` with your database connection details before running the application.
+
+## Getting Help
+
+If you encounter issues:
+
+1. **Check Python version**: Should be 3.7 or higher
+2. **Verify virtual environment**: Should be activated
+3. **Check dependencies**: Run `pip list` to see installed packages
+4. **Review error messages**: Look for specific error details
+5. **Test imports**: `python -c "import flask, pymysql"`
+
+## Production Deployment
+
+For production deployment:
+
+1. **Use same Python version** as development
+2. **Install exact dependencies**: `pip install -r requirements.txt`
+3. **Set environment variables** for production database
+4. **Configure web server** (nginx, Apache, etc.)
+5. **Use process manager** (systemd, supervisor, etc.)
+
+---
+
+**Note**: This application requires access to the existing hockey results database. Ensure proper database connectivity before running.
+
diff --git a/motm_app/VIRTUAL_ENV_GUIDE.md b/motm_app/VIRTUAL_ENV_GUIDE.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3e02784
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/VIRTUAL_ENV_GUIDE.md
@@ -0,0 +1,254 @@
+# MOTM Application - Virtual Environment Guide
+
+## 🎯 Why Use Virtual Environments?
+
+Virtual environments provide **isolated Python environments** for your projects, which means:
+
+- ✅ **No conflicts** between different project dependencies
+- ✅ **Reproducible environments** across different machines
+- ✅ **Clean separation** of project requirements
+- ✅ **Easy deployment** with exact dependency versions
+
+## 🚀 Quick Start
+
+### Windows Users
+
+1. **Open Command Prompt** (not PowerShell initially)
+2. **Navigate to motm_app directory**:
+   ```cmd
+   cd path\to\motm_app
+   ```
+
+3. **Create virtual environment**:
+   ```cmd
+   python -m venv venv
+   ```
+   *If this fails, try `py -m venv venv` or find your Python installation*
+
+4. **Activate virtual environment**:
+   ```cmd
+   venv\Scripts\activate.bat
+   ```
+   *You should see `(venv)` at the beginning of your command prompt*
+
+5. **Install dependencies**:
+   ```cmd
+   pip install --upgrade pip
+   pip install -r requirements.txt
+   ```
+
+6. **Run the application**:
+   ```cmd
+   python main.py
+   ```
+
+### Mac/Linux Users
+
+1. **Open Terminal**
+2. **Navigate to motm_app directory**:
+   ```bash
+   cd path/to/motm_app
+   ```
+
+3. **Create virtual environment**:
+   ```bash
+   python3 -m venv venv
+   ```
+
+4. **Activate virtual environment**:
+   ```bash
+   source venv/bin/activate
+   ```
+   *You should see `(venv)` at the beginning of your command prompt*
+
+5. **Install dependencies**:
+   ```bash
+   pip install --upgrade pip
+   pip install -r requirements.txt
+   ```
+
+6. **Run the application**:
+   ```bash
+   python main.py
+   ```
+
+## 📁 What Gets Created
+
+When you create a virtual environment, you'll see a new `venv` folder:
+
+```
+motm_app/
+├── venv/                    # Virtual environment (don't edit this)
+│   ├── Scripts/            # Windows activation scripts
+│   ├── bin/                # Unix activation scripts  
+│   ├── Lib/                # Installed packages
+│   └── pyvenv.cfg          # Environment configuration
+├── main.py                 # Your application
+├── requirements.txt        # Dependencies list
+└── ...                     # Other files
+```
+
+## 🔧 Daily Usage
+
+### Starting Your Work Session
+
+1. **Activate the virtual environment**:
+   - Windows: `venv\Scripts\activate.bat`
+   - Mac/Linux: `source venv/bin/activate`
+
+2. **Verify activation** - you should see `(venv)` in your prompt:
+   ```cmd
+   (venv) C:\path\to\motm_app>
+   ```
+
+3. **Run your application**:
+   ```cmd
+   python main.py
+   ```
+
+### Ending Your Work Session
+
+**Deactivate when done**:
+```cmd
+deactivate
+```
+*The `(venv)` indicator will disappear*
+
+## 📦 Managing Dependencies
+
+### Installing New Packages
+
+1. **Activate virtual environment first**
+2. **Install the package**:
+   ```cmd
+   pip install package-name
+   ```
+
+3. **Update requirements.txt**:
+   ```cmd
+   pip freeze > requirements.txt
+   ```
+
+4. **Commit the updated requirements.txt** to version control
+
+### Updating Existing Packages
+
+```cmd
+pip install --upgrade package-name
+```
+
+### Viewing Installed Packages
+
+```cmd
+pip list
+```
+
+### Removing Packages
+
+```cmd
+pip uninstall package-name
+```
+
+## 🛠️ Troubleshooting
+
+### "Python not found" Error
+
+**Windows:**
+- Install Python from [python.org](https://www.python.org/downloads/)
+- During installation, check "Add Python to PATH"
+- Try using `py` command instead of `python`
+
+**Mac/Linux:**
+- Install Python 3: `brew install python3` (Mac) or use package manager
+- Use `python3` instead of `python`
+
+### Virtual Environment Won't Activate
+
+**Windows:**
+```cmd
+# Try running Command Prompt as Administrator
+# Or use PowerShell with:
+Set-ExecutionPolicy -ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned -Scope CurrentUser
+```
+
+**Permission Errors:**
+```cmd
+# Remove and recreate
+rmdir /s venv          # Windows
+rm -rf venv            # Mac/Linux
+python -m venv venv    # Recreate
+```
+
+### Packages Not Found After Installation
+
+1. **Make sure virtual environment is activated** (look for `(venv)`)
+2. **Check if packages are installed**: `pip list`
+3. **Reinstall requirements**: `pip install -r requirements.txt`
+
+### Application Won't Start
+
+1. **Activate virtual environment**
+2. **Check all dependencies**: `pip install -r requirements.txt`
+3. **Test imports**: `python -c "import flask"`
+4. **Check error messages** in the console
+
+## 🔄 Working with Teams
+
+### Sharing Your Environment
+
+1. **Commit `requirements.txt`** to version control
+2. **Don't commit the `venv` folder** (add to `.gitignore`)
+
+### Setting Up on New Machine
+
+1. **Clone the repository**
+2. **Create virtual environment**: `python -m venv venv`
+3. **Activate it**: `venv\Scripts\activate.bat` (Windows) or `source venv/bin/activate` (Unix)
+4. **Install dependencies**: `pip install -r requirements.txt`
+
+## 🚀 Deployment Considerations
+
+### Production Environment
+
+- Use the same Python version as development
+- Install exact dependencies: `pip install -r requirements.txt`
+- Set up environment variables for database connections
+- Use a proper web server (nginx, Apache)
+- Consider using Docker for containerization
+
+### Docker Example
+
+```dockerfile
+FROM python:3.9-slim
+
+WORKDIR /app
+COPY requirements.txt .
+RUN pip install -r requirements.txt
+
+COPY . .
+CMD ["python", "main.py"]
+```
+
+## 💡 Best Practices
+
+1. **Always use virtual environments** for Python projects
+2. **Activate before working** on the project
+3. **Keep requirements.txt updated** when adding packages
+4. **Use descriptive commit messages** when updating dependencies
+5. **Test your application** after installing new packages
+6. **Document any special setup requirements**
+
+## 🆘 Getting Help
+
+If you're still having issues:
+
+1. **Check Python version**: Should be 3.7 or higher
+2. **Verify virtual environment**: Should be activated (see `(venv)` in prompt)
+3. **Review error messages**: Look for specific error details
+4. **Test step by step**: Create a simple test script to verify Python works
+5. **Check internet connection**: Required for installing packages
+
+---
+
+**Remember**: The virtual environment isolates your project dependencies from your system Python installation, making your project more reliable and portable! 🎉
+
diff --git a/motm_app/activate_motm.bat b/motm_app/activate_motm.bat
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4ca1009
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/activate_motm.bat
@@ -0,0 +1,10 @@
+@echo off
+echo 🐍 Activating MOTM Virtual Environment...
+call venv\Scripts\activate.bat
+echo ✅ Virtual environment activated!
+echo.
+echo 🚀 To start the MOTM application, run:
+echo    python.exe main.py
+echo.
+echo 🔧 To deactivate, run:
+echo    deactivate
diff --git a/motm_app/activate_motm.sh b/motm_app/activate_motm.sh
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c38d455
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/activate_motm.sh
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+#!/bin/bash
+echo "🐍 Activating MOTM Virtual Environment..."
+source venv/bin/activate
+echo "✅ Virtual environment activated!"
+echo ""
+echo "🚀 To start the MOTM application, run:"
+echo "   python main.py"
+echo ""
+echo "🔧 To deactivate, run:"
+echo "   deactivate"
+
diff --git a/motm_app/run_motm.bat b/motm_app/run_motm.bat
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..df2fe03
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/run_motm.bat
@@ -0,0 +1,5 @@
+@echo off
+echo 🐍 Starting MOTM Application...
+call venv\Scripts\activate.bat
+python.exe main.py
+pause
diff --git a/motm_app/run_motm.sh b/motm_app/run_motm.sh
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..90c6ab2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/run_motm.sh
@@ -0,0 +1,5 @@
+#!/bin/bash
+echo "🐍 Starting MOTM Application..."
+source venv/bin/activate
+python main.py
+
diff --git a/motm_app/setup_venv.ps1 b/motm_app/setup_venv.ps1
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ff1bc9e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/setup_venv.ps1
@@ -0,0 +1,148 @@
+# MOTM Flask Application - Virtual Environment Setup (PowerShell)
+# Run this script in PowerShell: .\setup_venv.ps1
+
+Write-Host "MOTM Flask Application - Virtual Environment Setup" -ForegroundColor Green
+Write-Host "=" * 60 -ForegroundColor Green
+
+# Check Python installation
+Write-Host "`n🐍 Checking Python installation..." -ForegroundColor Yellow
+
+$pythonCommands = @('python', 'python3', 'py')
+$pythonCmd = $null
+
+foreach ($cmd in $pythonCommands) {
+    try {
+        $version = & $cmd --version 2>$null
+        if ($LASTEXITCODE -eq 0) {
+            $pythonCmd = $cmd
+            Write-Host "✅ Found Python: $version" -ForegroundColor Green
+            break
+        }
+    }
+    catch {
+        # Continue to next command
+    }
+}
+
+if (-not $pythonCmd) {
+    Write-Host "❌ Python not found. Please install Python 3.7+ from python.org" -ForegroundColor Red
+    Write-Host "   Make sure to check 'Add Python to PATH' during installation" -ForegroundColor Yellow
+    Read-Host "Press Enter to exit"
+    exit 1
+}
+
+# Check if virtual environment already exists
+$venvDir = "venv"
+if (Test-Path $venvDir) {
+    Write-Host "`n⚠ Virtual environment '$venvDir' already exists" -ForegroundColor Yellow
+    $recreate = Read-Host "Do you want to recreate it? (y/N)"
+    if ($recreate -match '^[yY]') {
+        Write-Host "🗑️ Removing existing virtual environment..." -ForegroundColor Yellow
+        Remove-Item -Recurse -Force $venvDir
+    } else {
+        Write-Host "Using existing virtual environment..." -ForegroundColor Green
+        $skipCreation = $true
+    }
+}
+
+# Create virtual environment
+if (-not $skipCreation) {
+    Write-Host "`n📦 Creating virtual environment in '$venvDir'..." -ForegroundColor Yellow
+    try {
+        & $pythonCmd -m venv $venvDir
+        if ($LASTEXITCODE -eq 0) {
+            Write-Host "✅ Virtual environment created successfully!" -ForegroundColor Green
+        } else {
+            throw "Virtual environment creation failed"
+        }
+    }
+    catch {
+        Write-Host "❌ Failed to create virtual environment: $_" -ForegroundColor Red
+        Read-Host "Press Enter to exit"
+        exit 1
+    }
+}
+
+# Install dependencies
+Write-Host "`n📚 Installing dependencies..." -ForegroundColor Yellow
+
+$pipCmd = Join-Path $venvDir "Scripts\pip.exe"
+if (-not (Test-Path $pipCmd)) {
+    $pipCmd = Join-Path $venvDir "Scripts\pip"
+}
+
+try {
+    # Upgrade pip first
+    Write-Host "🔄 Upgrading pip..." -ForegroundColor Yellow
+    & $pipCmd install --upgrade pip
+    
+    # Install requirements
+    Write-Host "📦 Installing application dependencies..." -ForegroundColor Yellow
+    & $pipCmd install -r requirements.txt
+    
+    if ($LASTEXITCODE -eq 0) {
+        Write-Host "✅ Dependencies installed successfully!" -ForegroundColor Green
+    } else {
+        throw "Dependencies installation failed"
+    }
+}
+catch {
+    Write-Host "❌ Failed to install dependencies: $_" -ForegroundColor Red
+    Read-Host "Press Enter to exit"
+    exit 1
+}
+
+# Create convenience scripts
+Write-Host "`n📝 Creating convenience scripts..." -ForegroundColor Yellow
+
+# Update the batch files to use the correct Python command
+$activateScript = @"
+@echo off
+echo 🐍 Activating MOTM Virtual Environment...
+call venv\Scripts\activate.bat
+echo ✅ Virtual environment activated!
+echo.
+echo 🚀 To start the MOTM application, run:
+echo    $pythonCmd main.py
+echo.
+echo 🔧 To deactivate, run:
+echo    deactivate
+"@
+
+$runScript = @"
+@echo off
+echo 🐍 Starting MOTM Application...
+call venv\Scripts\activate.bat
+$pythonCmd main.py
+pause
+"@
+
+$activateScript | Out-File -FilePath "activate_motm.bat" -Encoding ASCII
+$runScript | Out-File -FilePath "run_motm.bat" -Encoding ASCII
+
+Write-Host "✅ Convenience scripts created!" -ForegroundColor Green
+
+# Print completion message
+Write-Host "`n" + "=" * 60 -ForegroundColor Green
+Write-Host "🎉 MOTM Virtual Environment Setup Complete!" -ForegroundColor Green
+Write-Host "=" * 60 -ForegroundColor Green
+
+Write-Host "`n📋 To use the virtual environment:" -ForegroundColor Cyan
+Write-Host "   1. Activate:   .\activate_motm.bat" -ForegroundColor White
+Write-Host "   2. Run app:    .\run_motm.bat" -ForegroundColor White
+Write-Host "   3. Deactivate: deactivate" -ForegroundColor White
+
+Write-Host "`n🔧 Manual activation:" -ForegroundColor Cyan
+Write-Host "   venv\Scripts\activate.bat" -ForegroundColor White
+Write-Host "   $pythonCmd main.py" -ForegroundColor White
+
+Write-Host "`n🌐 The application will be available at: http://localhost:5000" -ForegroundColor Cyan
+
+Write-Host "`n📚 For development:" -ForegroundColor Cyan
+Write-Host "   - Activate the venv before installing new packages" -ForegroundColor White
+Write-Host "   - Use 'pip install <package>' to add dependencies" -ForegroundColor White
+Write-Host "   - Update requirements.txt with 'pip freeze > requirements.txt'" -ForegroundColor White
+
+Write-Host "`n🚀 Ready to start! Run: .\run_motm.bat" -ForegroundColor Green
+Read-Host "`nPress Enter to exit"
+
diff --git a/motm_app/setup_venv.py b/motm_app/setup_venv.py
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..fafc4d4
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/setup_venv.py
@@ -0,0 +1,224 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""
+Setup script to create and configure a Python virtual environment for the MOTM application.
+"""
+
+import os
+import sys
+import subprocess
+import platform
+
+def create_virtual_environment():
+    """Create a Python virtual environment for the MOTM application."""
+    
+    print("🐍 Setting up Python virtual environment for MOTM application...")
+    print("=" * 60)
+    
+    # Check Python version
+    python_version = sys.version_info
+    print(f"✓ Python version: {python_version.major}.{python_version.minor}.{python_version.micro}")
+    
+    if python_version < (3, 7):
+        print("❌ Python 3.7 or higher is required")
+        return False
+    
+    # Determine the virtual environment directory name
+    venv_dir = "venv"
+    
+    # Check if virtual environment already exists
+    if os.path.exists(venv_dir):
+        print(f"⚠ Virtual environment '{venv_dir}' already exists")
+        response = input("Do you want to recreate it? (y/N): ").strip().lower()
+        if response in ['y', 'yes']:
+            print(f"🗑️ Removing existing virtual environment...")
+            if platform.system() == "Windows":
+                subprocess.run(['rmdir', '/s', '/q', venv_dir], shell=True)
+            else:
+                subprocess.run(['rm', '-rf', venv_dir])
+        else:
+            print("Using existing virtual environment...")
+            return True
+    
+    # Create virtual environment
+    print(f"📦 Creating virtual environment in '{venv_dir}'...")
+    try:
+        subprocess.run([sys.executable, '-m', 'venv', venv_dir], check=True)
+        print("✅ Virtual environment created successfully!")
+    except subprocess.CalledProcessError as e:
+        print(f"❌ Failed to create virtual environment: {e}")
+        return False
+    
+    return True
+
+def get_activation_script():
+    """Get the appropriate activation script for the current platform."""
+    if platform.system() == "Windows":
+        return os.path.join("venv", "Scripts", "activate.bat")
+    else:
+        return os.path.join("venv", "bin", "activate")
+
+def install_dependencies():
+    """Install required dependencies in the virtual environment."""
+    
+    print("\n📚 Installing dependencies...")
+    
+    # Determine the pip command based on platform
+    if platform.system() == "Windows":
+        pip_cmd = os.path.join("venv", "Scripts", "pip")
+    else:
+        pip_cmd = os.path.join("venv", "bin", "pip")
+    
+    # Check if requirements.txt exists
+    if not os.path.exists("requirements.txt"):
+        print("❌ requirements.txt not found")
+        return False
+    
+    try:
+        # Upgrade pip first
+        print("🔄 Upgrading pip...")
+        subprocess.run([pip_cmd, "install", "--upgrade", "pip"], check=True)
+        
+        # Install requirements
+        print("📦 Installing application dependencies...")
+        subprocess.run([pip_cmd, "install", "-r", "requirements.txt"], check=True)
+        
+        print("✅ Dependencies installed successfully!")
+        return True
+        
+    except subprocess.CalledProcessError as e:
+        print(f"❌ Failed to install dependencies: {e}")
+        return False
+
+def create_activation_scripts():
+    """Create convenient activation scripts."""
+    
+    print("\n📝 Creating activation scripts...")
+    
+    # Windows batch script
+    windows_script = """@echo off
+echo 🐍 Activating MOTM Virtual Environment...
+call venv\\Scripts\\activate.bat
+echo ✅ Virtual environment activated!
+echo.
+echo 🚀 To start the MOTM application, run:
+echo    python main.py
+echo.
+echo 🔧 To deactivate, run:
+echo    deactivate
+"""
+    
+    # Unix shell script
+    unix_script = """#!/bin/bash
+echo "🐍 Activating MOTM Virtual Environment..."
+source venv/bin/activate
+echo "✅ Virtual environment activated!"
+echo ""
+echo "🚀 To start the MOTM application, run:"
+echo "   python main.py"
+echo ""
+echo "🔧 To deactivate, run:"
+echo "   deactivate"
+"""
+    
+    # Write platform-specific scripts
+    if platform.system() == "Windows":
+        with open("activate_motm.bat", "w") as f:
+            f.write(windows_script)
+        print("✓ Created activate_motm.bat for Windows")
+    else:
+        with open("activate_motm.sh", "w") as f:
+            f.write(unix_script)
+        # Make it executable
+        os.chmod("activate_motm.sh", 0o755)
+        print("✓ Created activate_motm.sh for Unix/Linux")
+    
+    return True
+
+def create_run_script():
+    """Create a script to run the application directly."""
+    
+    print("📝 Creating run script...")
+    
+    # Windows batch script
+    windows_run = """@echo off
+echo 🐍 Starting MOTM Application...
+call venv\\Scripts\\activate.bat
+python main.py
+pause
+"""
+    
+    # Unix shell script
+    unix_run = """#!/bin/bash
+echo "🐍 Starting MOTM Application..."
+source venv/bin/activate
+python main.py
+"""
+    
+    if platform.system() == "Windows":
+        with open("run_motm.bat", "w") as f:
+            f.write(windows_run)
+        print("✓ Created run_motm.bat")
+    else:
+        with open("run_motm.sh", "w") as f:
+            f.write(unix_run)
+        os.chmod("run_motm.sh", 0o755)
+        print("✓ Created run_motm.sh")
+
+def print_instructions():
+    """Print setup completion instructions."""
+    
+    print("\n" + "=" * 60)
+    print("🎉 MOTM Virtual Environment Setup Complete!")
+    print("=" * 60)
+    
+    if platform.system() == "Windows":
+        print("\n📋 To use the virtual environment:")
+        print("   1. Activate:   activate_motm.bat")
+        print("   2. Run app:    run_motm.bat")
+        print("   3. Deactivate: deactivate")
+        print("\n🔧 Manual activation:")
+        print("   venv\\Scripts\\activate.bat")
+        print("   python main.py")
+    else:
+        print("\n📋 To use the virtual environment:")
+        print("   1. Activate:   source activate_motm.sh")
+        print("   2. Run app:    ./run_motm.sh")
+        print("   3. Deactivate: deactivate")
+        print("\n🔧 Manual activation:")
+        print("   source venv/bin/activate")
+        print("   python main.py")
+    
+    print("\n🌐 The application will be available at: http://localhost:5000")
+    print("\n📚 For development:")
+    print("   - Activate the venv before installing new packages")
+    print("   - Use 'pip install <package>' to add dependencies")
+    print("   - Update requirements.txt with 'pip freeze > requirements.txt'")
+
+def main():
+    """Main setup function."""
+    
+    # Change to the script's directory
+    script_dir = os.path.dirname(os.path.abspath(__file__))
+    os.chdir(script_dir)
+    
+    print("MOTM Flask Application - Virtual Environment Setup")
+    print("=" * 60)
+    
+    # Step 1: Create virtual environment
+    if not create_virtual_environment():
+        sys.exit(1)
+    
+    # Step 2: Install dependencies
+    if not install_dependencies():
+        sys.exit(1)
+    
+    # Step 3: Create convenience scripts
+    create_activation_scripts()
+    create_run_script()
+    
+    # Step 4: Print instructions
+    print_instructions()
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    main()
+
diff --git a/motm_app/setup_venv_windows.bat b/motm_app/setup_venv_windows.bat
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b3f20ae
--- /dev/null
+++ b/motm_app/setup_venv_windows.bat
@@ -0,0 +1,71 @@
+@echo off
+echo MOTM Flask Application - Virtual Environment Setup
+echo ================================================
+
+echo.
+echo 🐍 Creating Python virtual environment...
+
+REM Check if virtual environment already exists
+if exist venv (
+    echo ⚠ Virtual environment 'venv' already exists
+    set /p recreate="Do you want to recreate it? (y/N): "
+    if /i "%recreate%"=="y" (
+        echo 🗑️ Removing existing virtual environment...
+        rmdir /s /q venv
+    ) else (
+        echo Using existing virtual environment...
+        goto :install_deps
+    )
+)
+
+REM Create virtual environment
+echo 📦 Creating virtual environment in 'venv'...
+python.exe -m venv venv
+if errorlevel 1 (
+    echo ❌ Failed to create virtual environment
+    pause
+    exit /b 1
+)
+echo ✅ Virtual environment created successfully!
+
+:install_deps
+echo.
+echo 📚 Installing dependencies...
+
+REM Upgrade pip first
+echo 🔄 Upgrading pip...
+venv\Scripts\pip install --upgrade pip
+
+REM Install requirements
+echo 📦 Installing application dependencies...
+venv\Scripts\pip install -r requirements.txt
+if errorlevel 1 (
+    echo ❌ Failed to install dependencies
+    pause
+    exit /b 1
+)
+
+echo ✅ Dependencies installed successfully!
+
+echo.
+echo ================================================
+echo 🎉 MOTM Virtual Environment Setup Complete!
+echo ================================================
+echo.
+echo 📋 To use the virtual environment:
+echo   1. Activate:   activate_motm.bat
+echo   2. Run app:    run_motm.bat
+echo   3. Deactivate: deactivate
+echo.
+echo 🔧 Manual activation:
+echo   venv\Scripts\activate.bat
+echo   python main.py
+echo.
+echo 🌐 The application will be available at: http://localhost:5000
+echo.
+echo 📚 For development:
+echo   - Activate the venv before installing new packages
+echo   - Use 'pip install ^<package^>' to add dependencies
+echo   - Update requirements.txt with 'pip freeze ^> requirements.txt'
+echo.
+pause