E-commerce options you should consider
Whether you're launching a new online store or adding one to your existing online presence, take a look at a few options you need to consider before jumping in. In this episode we're talking pros and cons on using a platform, launching your own website or doing a hybrid launch.
Your first option is to consider ready-made platforms such as Etsy, Ebay and Shopify. There are more than just these three but these tend to be the ones we think of first. Regardless of which one you go to, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
These platforms are quick to launch and usually have a drag-and-drop approach to designing your store.
You’ll get some tech support once you begin paying for their services
Platform-based stores tend to show up more in online searches, which is good for you. However, these searches also bring every other store to the search results that offer something similar.
Platforms tend to be pricey once you get into the bigger packages that support more items in your store and more features. Marketing options and bookkeeping functions are available but usually come with an upgrade to your basic store function and that means more cost.
When it comes to branding and creating customer loyalty, it’s a bit more challenging on a platform-based store because those online searches are going to show you and 10 other stores that offer something similar.
Speaking of branding, platform stores are going to be limited to the look and feel of your store. These platforms come with templates that aren’t usually manipulated to customize your store.
What about designing your own website and online store?
This option usually costs you more upfront and takes longer to get launched. You’ll usually need to rely on a site designer and depending on the number of items in your store, could be looking at anywhere from $10,000 and 6 months before you get any viable store up and running.
Your own site allows you to customize everything, so you can get really creative with the look and feel that matches your brand.
In the end, this option usually is cheaper on a monthly subscription plan rather than the platform sites mentioned above.
Custom sites allow for great integrations with other third-party software which means your marketing options are limitless.
Be sure you know how your site is going to function once its launched. While platform-based stores have some tech support and some user-friendly options to maintain your store, a custom website design might not be so easy to maintain. Just ask your designer before you get to far down the road.
Option number three is a hybrid of the two previously mentioned. You get the best of both worlds… the ease and function of the ready-made online store for the actual shopping experience combined with the customization of your own site. This means a site designer would embed your platform-based store into your custom site so you get more control, more customization and all the features that Etsy, Ebay or Shopify can offer.
If you’re thinking of an online store, let’s chat. There are a lot of things to consider and we have experience working in all three scenarios. We can point you in the direction and answer you questions so you can make an informed decision!
