E-commerce

Recession? No one told the Internet.

E-commerce chart

(Source: US Census Bureau)

US E-commerce spending rose from 28,885 million USD in 2000 to 134,420 million USD in 2009.

There are several different ways that your business can start selling online.

Paypal/Google button integration

This option is a button that is added to web page(s) on your website.

Advantages: Works well when you only want to sell 1-3 products or subscription types. Quick integration (unless user data is )

Note: User can only purchase one item at a time (they can order multiple of that one item, however). No integrated shipping or sales reporting. No coupons or special pricing. User cannot update prices without developer assistance.

Turn-key hosted shopping cart

Some companies offer monthly fee-based, DIY shopping cart solutions.

Advantages: Lower up-front costs, easy to get started. You create your own site based on provider-offered templates.

Note: Higher monthly costs. Limited website design options. You are locked in with the provider, so you can’t switch to a different hosting company and you won’t have complete access to your server. Some providers take a percentage of sales.

Basic e-commerce installation

Do you want:

  • 100% ownership of your storefront
  • An original design
  • Your site to be more than just a shopping cart

Then a standalone e-commerce installation may be right for you.

Advantages: Design and features are completely customizable. You own your site and can host it with any company. Costs less over time. Select any shipping method and merchant account provider.

Note: Costs more to get started than the less customizable options.

Advanced e-commerce platform

If you have a large number of products and/or need advanced marketing features, an advanced e-commerce solution may be the right choice.

Advantages: All the benefits of a basic e-commerce installation, plus advanced marketing metrics, goal tracking and campaign management. Unlimited products.

Note: Hosting fees are higher because the software requires larger system resources.

Contact us today to get your project started.

Contact us today for a free consultation!

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