Negosentro.com | Tips to Choose the Right eCommerce Platform | Is your dream to create a successful eCommerce business and make money while you sleep? If so, now is the time to act. Getting a part of the growing eCommerce sector takes much more than wishful thinking.
It does not matter if you will create an online B2B marketplace or focus on B2C; the first step is to find the right eCommerce platform. However, it can be challenging to find the perfect eCommerce platform with so many options to choose from.
So, you may wonder, what is the solution? The best thing you can do is consider a few essential factors. Keep reading to know what to look for and consider when choosing an eCommerce platform.
The Cost of the Platform
The first thing to think about when looking for the right eCommerce platform is how much it costs. It does not matter if you own a small business and are just getting started, or if you have an established brick & mortar business that is going online, you need to know precisely what you will pay.
Virtually all platforms will charge you a monthly fee. Depending on the platform you choose – hosted vs. self-hosted – the costs for service will vary. It is also necessary to consider the processing fees that are related to the platform. Do not sacrifice the features you need just to get a lower price. Instead, get to know each platform’s pros and cons and then select the option that best suits your needs.
It is also necessary to think about how your customers will pay you. Some platforms don’t allow you to accept payments from a third-party vendor, such as PayPal. This may be an inconvenience for your customers and a source of frustration that results in shopping cart abandonment.
Integrations
Another essential factor to consider when searching for an eCommerce platform is its plugins and integrations. Usually, platforms like Shopify will have an array of tools that help you run your business. Your business’s needs will be the deciding factor for choosing plugins that work for you.
When you start considering the different platforms, consider the tools needed or that are already being used for your business. Some of the most popular options to look for include:
- Apps that help with shipping items
- Accounting plugins to help with profits, sales, revenues, and taxes
- Platforms that reward customers for using your products
- Email marketing tools to help you stay in touch with your customers
SEO Friendliness
Your eCommerce business is not exempt from working on its SEO. This is something that can be extremely beneficial, and that will help your store rank better in search results. You want to ensure your customers find you when searching for products like what you offer.
Some factors to consider and look for related to SEO include:
- The ability to use a custom domain name
- The ability to add a blog to your site
- The ability for your customers to leave a review
Mobile Friendliness
Today, approximately 60% of all searches originate from mobile devices. Usually, these searchers continue to make a purchase from their mobile device. This means you need to find a platform to let your customers access your website and make a purchase quickly.
Customer Service Considerations
An essential part of any business is the customer service provided. The experience offered by a traditional, brick-and-mortar business provides more hands-on service. The people who work there have more control over how smoothly the business runs.
When you go online, everything is different. You have to think about server downtimes and software outages, which are out of your control, and figure out how to ensure the service you provide customers is still superior.
If you are creating an eCommerce site for your business, be sure to keep the tips and information here in mind when choosing the platform. Being informed is the best way to ensure you get the results desired.
