Even if you have a great idea, opening an online store takes planning. If you’re new to the world of e-commerce, you might even need some outside help deciding which platform is best to build your business. An e-commerce platform is what ultimately builds the structure of your online business. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult trying to find the best one suited for you. Here’s how you can choose the best platform for your online business.
Know What to Look For
Although each platform shares similar goals, not all of them can be used in the same manner. A great example of this is the platform known as Etsy. Etsy is a place where you can sell anything that’s considered vintage as well as novelty clothing, jewelry and hand-made goods. However, that’s about all you can sell on it. So, unless you have this type business, you need to find another platform.
For a more flexible platform, a good option is OpenCart. OpenCart is one of the most flexible ecommerce platforms on the internet. You can sell just about anything you want on it. This also makes it one of the more beginner-friendly platforms. Furthermore, you can also view guides on OpenCart to figure out the best SEO strategies for beginners, which when done right, boosts visibility and can make the sites appear higher in online searches.
Prioritize SEO
There’s no better way to boost traffic than SEO, regardless of your chosen platform. SEO itself is somewhat complex, especially if you’re a newcomer. The basic premise of SEO is where you use a series of various keywords and phrases that are associated with your designated niche. These words are what people type in when they’re searching, so if you properly incorporate SEO, chances are you’ll be one of the first options to show up. Since you’re still relatively new, it won’t help you to struggle with understanding how SEO works. You can always hire an SEO consultant for tips and advice instead.
Affordability
As helpful as ecommerce platforms are, they’re not without cost. Sure, there are some that offer new clients a 30-day free trial. This trial can be used to learn the ins and outs of everything while potentially gaining your first few customers. However, once this trial expires, so does your ability to access your store. You’d have to purchase the subscription in order to keep it active.
The price depends on the platform you’re on and the packages they offer. Shopify, for example, offers three of them: basic, standard and advanced. The basic package is $29.99 a month, the standard package is $79.99 a month and the advanced package is $299.99 a month. In other words, the more you pay, the more perks you get. But if you’re starting out, it’s recommended to not go with the advanced plan as it can drain your finances quickly. To make the most of it, use the free trial and then purchase the basic package, so you can get your business off the ground. Only when you start seeing profits is when you should consider upgrading.