What is an eCommerce Platform?

Chances are for those of you reading this blog the idea of an eCommerce platform is a natural progression. You are in the online marketing and retail business because of a knack for both product sales and technology. E-Commerce platforms take many shapes and sizes but they all provide a means of passive income in a 24/7 sales cycle. First, not too dissimilar from the metaphorical railway platform, ecommerce platforms are the beginning of a journey. Specifically, your customer’s journey that in today’s data-driven marketplace can yield more value than profit from a singular sales transaction. On the other hand, an e-commerce platform is simply a way for online shoppers to browse and pay for goods. However, that definition is only the tip of the iceberg.

Top E-Commerce Platform Considerations

Without question the top consideration for ecommerce platforms is compatibility. To that end there are three types of platforms. First, SaaS (software-as-a-service), then PaaS (platform-as-a-service) platforms and on-premises platforms. Another top ecommerce platform consideration is extensibility. An extensible platform integrates with popular CMS (content management systems) like WordPress. Extensible platforms allow users to add new capabilities and outputs which we will discuss in more detail in future blogs. The next mission critical consideration for your journey into ecommerce platforms is support. If you are new to ecommerce technology integration, make sure your platform has high customer service reviews. Finally, reporting is the last major consideration. As they say, however, it’s last but not least. Reporting is where the average online retailer can become a top performer.

Best E Commerce Software

Finally, there is no clear cut winner. The best ecommerce software gives sellers the ability to showcase goods and shoppers a means to facilitate purchases. All ecommerce platforms will provide three key features: search, cart and payment. Beyond those key features sellers must consider search engine optimization with product catalogs or portfolios. The extent to which your online store gathers user information such as preferences and browsing behavior is where your journey gets more interesting. Pay per click ads and boosted content are just the beginning to attracting new customers using search engines and social media. The best ecommerce software has built in functionality that allows sellers a direct line to more profits.

In our next blog in this extensive series find out why digital transformation is inevitable for online retailers. As always, please be in touch with any questions or to request a free consultation!