The world of online trade has experienced unprecedented growth over the last few years. Only in the US, e-commerce sales are expected to grow from $225.5 billion in 2012 to $434 billion in 2017 [source]. Thanks to the ever-expanding nature of the Internet, ecommerce seems to have a huge potential, as well. However, if you want to launch an ecommerce business, first you need to get familiar with the ABCs of online trade. So, let’s start with the most important features an ecommerce website needs to have.
Smooth Navigation for Users
Internet users generally like simple, but functional websites with original graphic solutions. There is hardly a niche that needs functional sites more than ecommerce. What online buyers need from a product-selling website are relevant infographics and smooth buying procedures. Also, buyers need to be able to get back from every single page of their purchasing procedure without getting logged out. Moreover, such a website also has to be packed with interesting and appealing diagrams if you want to make your buyers use it on a regular basis.
Online Shop Windows
Since websites are just packs of pages in the sea of similar virtual solutions, they need to have a special value for their visitors, to turn them into shiny, happy buyers. To get your visitor become a regular customer, all the pages on your website have to look like meticulously embellished window shops. First of all, every product has to be described in an informative, but concise way. Here is where ecommerce copywriting skills come on stage, so think about hiring professionals for that part of work. Secondly, you need to provide your buyers with relevant information about each and every product your sell, i.e. post links to manufacturers’ websites. Also, do not forget about the importance of the images that will represent your products. They need to be high resolution pictures, but find an optimal solution, to avoid bulky images that expand the website loading time.
High-Level Payment Security
Online buyers are usually open-minded people who enjoy the fact that they can get whatever they want from the comfort of their living rooms. This is why ecommerce businesspeople have to take all the measures they can to keep their customers loyal and joyous buyers. The most important precondition for achieving that goal is creating a safe paying environment through the implementation of alternative payment methods. Joining forces with global payment providers on the rise will give your business a new injection of fresh ideas. Introducing user-friendly innovations in this field will also show the customers that you are a committed and serious business player.
Getting Familiar with Buyers’ Preferences
Unlike traditional, tangible, brick-and-mortar stores, where sellers and buyers had a direct contact that influenced their relationship, online trade relies mainly on studying shoppers’ habits. One form of gathering information that will tell you more about your customers’ needs and wishes is including questionnaires in your sales procedures. However, it is much more efficient and less tiring for your customers if you start using one of the cutting-edge ecommerce analytics software tools. According to this analysis, predictive analytics tools make a huge difference for ecommerce businesses.
Stepping into the realm of online trade is a move that can bring a lot of benefits, but it also requires loads of hard work. Moreover, online sellers need to master some modern technological solutions, as well. Still, it is a profession of the future and witty businesspeople in this niche should expect fair revenue in the years to come.
Photo credit: The Next Web Photos / Michal Jarmoluk
