From my perspective, it should generate a unique code automatically when a gift certificate is purchased in the HikaShop store. I would assume that HikaShop would store this code in the same fashion as coupon codes in order to be used by customers. That would work. And the code should be displayed only after payment processing is complete and verified. That's absolutely key.
However, and I realize this is a bigger step, it would be fantastic if the gift certificates could be maintained in a table that would allow multiple uses until that balance on the certificate is used. So, if I have a gift certificate for $100, I can use it as many times as I want until that $100 is exhausted. The gift certificates table would need to be able to track the initial balance (the gift certificate amount) as well as the current balance. If a customer does not utilize the full amount of the certificate, the amount they do use is deducted from the certificate balance, creating a new current balance.
I know I am asking for a lot, but it's what would be necessary for me to really be able to effectively implement this for my clients. Thanks for taking the time!!!!!!