E-commerce
E-commerce is a vital area for consideration in our 'wired world'. Here are our 'top tips' for successful entry into the field. Much of this also applies if you want to expand operations:
• View the process as a whole, not just a web site.
For example, your bank may require additional security or specify a risk level for internet trading. Who will process your on-line orders? Who will update the site and how often?
• Select the scale on which you will work.
Do you want to sell all your products on-line, or just the most popular? If your product lines run into thousands, you may need high-end software such as Magento and the services of a consultant. Smaller concerns often use a package such as Actinic. A select product range can be launched with a very simple application.
• Decide on the style appropriate to your products.
Many e-commerce sites look like a grid of pictures, prices and brief descriptions. That is suitable for some markets, but sometimes specialist software is worth the investment to get the right look and feel.
• Consider how people are going to know about you.
That may mean extending your normal publicity. It may also mean special efforts to marshal customer data. You may benefit from Google Adwords and similar but less well-known channels. Search Engine Optimisation may be important. (See also the web sites section.)
In other words...
Although e-commerce may greatly enhance your profits, it needs detailed thought at the beginning. Sometimes a pilot is a good idea.
We are happy to provide suitable low-cost general consultancy to help you consider these questions, with no obligation to go further.
Once you are sure that you have found the right approach, then we'll progress it from there with design, software and expertise.