Many websites have used the power of social media in order to increase their online exposure and to better connect with their target audience. While there is no doubt that this is a highly effective method, we also need to keep in mind that the majority of successful portals will also need to employ targeted eCommerce solutions in order to fully maximise their efforts. So, what are some of the features associated with an efficient platform? Let’s examine a handful of hallmarks which should be examined before making a final decision, as any e-commerce framework represents a very real form of investment.
The Crucial Role of Scalability
Flexibility is key in this day and age. After all, every website will require specific solutions for its ultimate goals. Scalable e-commerce software packages will enable the company in question to upgrade or downgrade when needed. There are several situations which will undoubtedly benefit from this sense of modularity:
In the event that a new audience is being targeted.
The ability to address seasonal marketing campaigns.
The introduction of new products or services.
When a point of sale (POS) system is required to accept a new payment method.
The best bundles in the business can be upgraded or downsized with a minimal amount of effort; ensuring that the website will not be required to remain offline for an extended period of time.
What Types of Customer Service and Support are Offered?
The majority of business owners are by no means e-commerce experts. While they might possess a vast amount of knowledge in terms of sales and client engagement, the fact of the matter is that they should not be required to learn an entirely new set of technical skills before taking their enterprise to the next level. This is why it is important to select an eCommerce solution associated with a user-friendly interface.
Templates should be fitted with a drag-and-drop functionality. Only a minimal amount of coding should be required. Perhaps most critically, it must always be possible to connect with a customer support specialist in the event of an issue or if a problem happens to arise. Furthermore, numerous points of contact will help to ensure that solutions are encountered within an amenable time frame. Dedicated email addresses, a 24/7 telephone number and a live chat widget are some of the hallmarks of a well-rounded e-commerce platform.
How User-Friendly is the Interface?
Intuition likewise goes a long way in this day and age. This is why an e-commerce enterprise bundle should offer an in-depth help section. A page dedicated solely to answering he most frequently asked questions will save a great deal of time and consternation. In fact, such an option may preclude the need to contact a customer support specialist. This page should be updated on a regular basis and augmented with other helpful options such as how-to blogs as well as similarly useful advice provided by industry experts. After all, an e-commerce platform is only as useful as its ability to solve simple problems before they evolve into more profound pitfalls.
Which Brands Currently Employ the Software?
It is also a good idea to take a look at which brands are currently employing the eCommerce solution being offered. This is a great way to determine whether or not the claims made by its developers actually stand up to third-party scrutiny. Platforms associated with well-known brands tend to be the very same which will offer targeted solutions. If possible, discover if the brands in question have left any feedback in regards to their experiences. Perform a bit of research in advance so that you are relatively aware of what can be expected in the event that you confirm a subscription.
Are International eCommerce Solutions Offered?
Always think big in terms of e-commerce sales and marketing solutions. Unfortunately, some businesses only choose to focus upon the present as opposed to the future. While it indeed makes a great deal of sense to hone your efforts around a smaller demographic in the beginning, you will also need to be provided with room to expand as your business grows. This can be problematic if you become partnered with an e-commerce platform that does not offer you the ability to cater to an international audience. Not only could this dramatically impact your overall growth, but you might even be forced to switch providers in the midst of live operations. On the contrary, it is much better to work in synergy with a software platform that is capable of dealing with international clients from the very beginning.
How Secure is the Point-of-Sale System?
A point-of-sale (POS) system is the veritable heartbeat of any online sales portal. After all, this section represents one of the final steps during the overall engagement process. Potential sales could very well be lost if the POS system in question is clumsy, confusing or questionable in regards to its security features. Customers need to remain fully confident in what is being offered and the point of sale could make or break this feeling. Here are some metrics to examine before committing to a specific eCommerce provider:
What types of payment methods are accepted?
In the event that customers are subscribing to a specific service (such as accessing a sports betting portal), how many withdrawal options are present?
Will the point-of-sale platform reflect the branding of your website?
Can the POS interface be integrated with additional third-party software bundles?
Sticking with the Top E-Commerce Providers
Always remember that you ultimately get what you pay for. This is why it is arguably better to work in tandem with well-respected e-commerce solutions, as the chances of encountering any profound problems are virtually eliminated. Whether you have just recently entered into the world of online sales or you are a well-established business, the suggestions mentioned above will all come in handy.
See also: Introducing Facebook Shops
