Over the past few years the UK small business economy has evolved considerably, and a large part of this evolution can be attributed to the take up and development of ecommerce and web-hosting solutions.
Small businesses can now both market and sell online for a fraction of what it would have cost them in the past. This is due to many web-hosting companies expanding their own product ranges to include ecommerce solutions, some costing just £15 a month.
While this is good news for the small business, this then creates the issue of choosing the right ecommerce solution which not only allows a small business manager to market and sell online, but to best fit his or her business strategy. There are some fundamental features that small business managers should consider and compare in order to choose the right ecommerce solution.
Pricing
Cost-effectiveness has always and will always play a key
role in small business decision making, so look for the packages that provide
an almost risk-free platform from which to progress. A free trial option or a
minimal monthly service charge will allow businesses to launch online without
significant financial or technological investment, and packages which are
bundled with other products such as domain names or web-hosting are greater
value for money
Integration
The impact on current business operations should be
seriously considered when integrating an ecommerce solution, so look for
solutions which are quick and easy to set up with little technical expertise
needed. That way setting up the ecommerce solution won't distract from other
important tasks
Flexibility
Consider the features of the ecommerce solutions, as to
whether they will support current and future business structures and
strategies. For example, the ability to upload an unlimited product range as
well as offering multiple delivery and secure payment options means the ecommerce
solution will be flexible and scalable, which ultimately will allow a business
to widen the target audience and expand growth
Customisation
To achieve a truly professional looking online shop,
choosing an ecommerce solution with a customisable interface is essential. This
allows integration with all other marketing and collateral, which then offers
small businesses and their end customers a seam free online experience
Reporting
With the explosion in the fields of online and social media,
it is essential that small business have built in reporting functionality
available with their ecommerce solution. This provides the ability to collect
additional customer information throughout the shopping process, to provide
even greater information back to the business
Marketing
Built-in marketing tools will not only save money, but also
allow for quick and effective execution of tactical marketing such as
newsletters, promotions and offers, all of which are supported by the flexible
and customisable payment options in the back-end interface
Security
Finally, most customers require reassurance that a website
is secure enough to take payments and trasact with. Integration with well known
online merchants such as PayPal, Worldpay, Datacash and Google Checkout
provides confidence and trust to customers, and will increase sales
Keeping these features in mind while searching for the right ecommerce solution may help avoid issues in the long run that could affect your online shop and ultimately the success of your business.
Ditlev Bredahl is managing director of UK2.net. To view UK2's brand new ecommerce solution visit www.uk2.net/e-commerce [1]