Ecommerce: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Advantages of Ecommerce
When you read the following list of advantages of ecommerce for businesses and customers, you will get the sense that ecommerce is the holy grail of retail.
When you read the following list of advantages of ecommerce for businesses and customers, you will get the sense that ecommerce is the holy grail of retail.
What Is Ecommerce?
Popular examples of ecommerce revolve around buying and selling online. But the ecommerce universe contains other types of activities as well. Any form of business transaction conducted electronically is ecommerce.
Popular examples of ecommerce revolve around buying and selling online. But the ecommerce universe contains other types of activities as well. Any form of business transaction conducted electronically is ecommerce.
Disadvantages of Ecommerce
For the effective development of any industry, it is important to recognize its shortcomings. Here is a look at the disadvantages of ecommerce.
For the effective development of any industry, it is important to recognize its shortcomings. Here is a look at the disadvantages of ecommerce.
Types of Ecommerce
Ecommerce has matured into a full-blown industry. As a result, we can now see several variants of ecommerce.
Ecommerce has matured into a full-blown industry. As a result, we can now see several variants of ecommerce.
36 Advantages and Disadvantages of Ecommerce
If you read popular business literature, you are often left feeling that ecommerce is the solution to all business problems. It is time to see both sides of the coin.
If you read popular business literature, you are often left feeling that ecommerce is the solution to all business problems. It is time to see both sides of the coin.
Ebusiness vs. Ecommerce
Differentiating between ebusiness and ecommerce is helpful in understanding the new paradigm of business. Surprisingly, it is not easy.
Differentiating between ebusiness and ecommerce is helpful in understanding the new paradigm of business. Surprisingly, it is not easy.
WordPress for Ecommerce
There are many licensed ecommerce software packages out there. But WordPress is an interesting choice as it did not start out as an ecommerce solution.
There are many licensed ecommerce software packages out there. But WordPress is an interesting choice as it did not start out as an ecommerce solution.
Shopify Review
Shopify is one of the most popular hosted shopping cart provider. Read my review of their offering.
Shopify is one of the most popular hosted shopping cart provider. Read my review of their offering.
The Future of Ecommerce
Today the economy is still in pretty rough shape, but it's better than it was a year or two ago, and that's great news! A large part of the success of this most profitable holiday season is due to the impressive amount of money being spent online. Over the past ten years, the Ecommerce revolution has transformed the way we shop. Although the amount of time and money we spend online grows every year, the Ecommerce experience has changed very little since its inception.
Today the economy is still in pretty rough shape, but it's better than it was a year or two ago, and that's great news! A large part of the success of this most profitable holiday season is due to the impressive amount of money being spent online. Over the past ten years, the Ecommerce revolution has transformed the way we shop. Although the amount of time and money we spend online grows every year, the Ecommerce experience has changed very little since its inception.
Ecommerce Top 5 Tips
To run a successful Ecommerce business, you must be willing and able to wear many hats. This is not a small undertaking -- at least if you intend to be successful. In a mature company, each topic listed below could be a department unto itself. If you cannot afford to delegate responsibility for any of these key areas, you will just have to do it all yourself, at least until you can afford to hire someone to help you.
To run a successful Ecommerce business, you must be willing and able to wear many hats. This is not a small undertaking -- at least if you intend to be successful. In a mature company, each topic listed below could be a department unto itself. If you cannot afford to delegate responsibility for any of these key areas, you will just have to do it all yourself, at least until you can afford to hire someone to help you.
Successful Ecommerce Business
Ecommerce setups are some of the fastest growing businesses. However, ecommerce is not the magic wand for success. Find out what makes an ecommerce business tick.
Ecommerce setups are some of the fastest growing businesses. However, ecommerce is not the magic wand for success. Find out what makes an ecommerce business tick.
Payment Gateway
A payment gateway is an interface between the banks (or financial institutions) of the shopper and the merchant. It facilitates the transfer of money from the shopper's account to the merchant's account.
A payment gateway is an interface between the banks (or financial institutions) of the shopper and the merchant. It facilitates the transfer of money from the shopper's account to the merchant's account.
How Does Ecommerce Work?
There are several integral components of an ecommerce business. Find out how the different components work with each other.
There are several integral components of an ecommerce business. Find out how the different components work with each other.
Ecommerce Marketing Plan
There is often an element of spontaneity in the way you implement your marketing plans. But that does not mean that you do not undergo a rigorous ecommerce marketing plan development exercise.
There is often an element of spontaneity in the way you implement your marketing plans. But that does not mean that you do not undergo a rigorous ecommerce marketing plan development exercise.
How to Succeed in Ecommerce
To run a successful Ecommerce business, you must be willing and able to wear many hats. This is not a small undertaking—at least if you intend to be successful. In a mature company, each topic listed below could be a department unto itself. If you cannot afford to delegate responsibility for any of these key areas, you will just have to do it all yourself, until you can afford to hire someone to help you.
To run a successful Ecommerce business, you must be willing and able to wear many hats. This is not a small undertaking—at least if you intend to be successful. In a mature company, each topic listed below could be a department unto itself. If you cannot afford to delegate responsibility for any of these key areas, you will just have to do it all yourself, until you can afford to hire someone to help you.
Ecommerce Suite: ATG Commerce
The following list of Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
The following list of Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
Starting an Ecommerce Business
It is not easier to succeed in ecommerce, but it can certainly be faster. Here is a guide to set up an ecommerce business in one day.
It is not easier to succeed in ecommerce, but it can certainly be faster. Here is a guide to set up an ecommerce business in one day.
Security Issues in Ecommerce
If you want people to part with their money online, you need to make sure that they feel secure. That is why security is always going to be a big concern, for the ecommerce industry.
If you want people to part with their money online, you need to make sure that they feel secure. That is why security is always going to be a big concern, for the ecommerce industry.
Ecommerce Website
Not all ecommerce websites are created equal. Only the ones that focus on ease of use will survive.
Not all ecommerce websites are created equal. Only the ones that focus on ease of use will survive.
SEO vs. SEM
Initially ecommerce businesses find success only in pay per click traffic. As a result they could end up overlooking SEO entirely. But that may not be a smart move.
Initially ecommerce businesses find success only in pay per click traffic. As a result they could end up overlooking SEO entirely. But that may not be a smart move.
Business to Business Ecommerce
Though one does not hear about it a lot, B2B ecommerce has truly revolutionized the world of business. Adopters of online business to business processes have reaped several benefits.
Though one does not hear about it a lot, B2B ecommerce has truly revolutionized the world of business. Adopters of online business to business processes have reaped several benefits.
Ecommerce to Mcommerce
Ecommerce moved the venue of transactions from physical stores to the desktop computer. Today, with the proliferation of mobile devices, commerce is turning location independent. Is your ecommerce business ready to go mobile?
Ecommerce moved the venue of transactions from physical stores to the desktop computer. Today, with the proliferation of mobile devices, commerce is turning location independent. Is your ecommerce business ready to go mobile?
Supply Chain Strategy
Supply chain management is at the heart of any retail business. Ecommerce is no different.
Supply chain management is at the heart of any retail business. Ecommerce is no different.
What Is Reverse Logistics?
Though reverse logistics is not as popular as the supply chain that gets the goods into the hands of the customer, it is as important.
Though reverse logistics is not as popular as the supply chain that gets the goods into the hands of the customer, it is as important.
Third Party Logistics
For successful ecommerce, effective fulfillment must be a given. Unless we can deliver the goods, the business cycle cannot be completed.
For successful ecommerce, effective fulfillment must be a given. Unless we can deliver the goods, the business cycle cannot be completed.
What Is Link Building?
Understanding link building is necessary for successfully marketing your ecommerce website. Otherwise you will end up paying per visitor that lands up on your ecommerce store.
Understanding link building is necessary for successfully marketing your ecommerce website. Otherwise you will end up paying per visitor that lands up on your ecommerce store.
Ecommerce SEO
Optimizing an ecommerce website for search follows the general principles of SEO. But the unique challenges of ecommerce SEO require unique solutions.
Optimizing an ecommerce website for search follows the general principles of SEO. But the unique challenges of ecommerce SEO require unique solutions.
Open Source Ecommerce Software
The following list of open source Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience and should not be viewed as an endorsement of any particular product. The product descriptions were provided by the software companies.
The following list of open source Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience and should not be viewed as an endorsement of any particular product. The product descriptions were provided by the software companies.
Ecommerce Marketing
Ecommerce can gain from conventional marketing. But it can also make use of a wide range of online activities.
Ecommerce can gain from conventional marketing. But it can also make use of a wide range of online activities.
OsCommerce-Based Software
The following open source Ecommerce software products are based on the OsCommerce engine. This list is provided for your convenience and should not be viewed as an endorsement of any particular product. All product descriptions were provided by the software companies.
The following open source Ecommerce software products are based on the OsCommerce engine. This list is provided for your convenience and should not be viewed as an endorsement of any particular product. All product descriptions were provided by the software companies.
Returns Policy
As an ecommerce website, you have learned to live with returns. But have you created a coherent and fair returns policy?
As an ecommerce website, you have learned to live with returns. But have you created a coherent and fair returns policy?
Pay Per Click Strategy
Paying per click on your advertisements can be an effective method to gain web traffic. But you must make sure that you follow the right strategy.
Paying per click on your advertisements can be an effective method to gain web traffic. But you must make sure that you follow the right strategy.
Niche Ecommerce Business Ideas
Everyone would like to sell everything to everybody. But we are a little too late in the day for that. Find the right niche and rule it.
Everyone would like to sell everything to everybody. But we are a little too late in the day for that. Find the right niche and rule it.
How to Choose a Domain Name
The domain name is one of the most crucial identifiers of your ecommerce website. Learn how you should choose your domain name.
The domain name is one of the most crucial identifiers of your ecommerce website. Learn how you should choose your domain name.
Affiliate Marketing Program
How exactly does an affiliate program work on ecommerce websites? What are its components?
How exactly does an affiliate program work on ecommerce websites? What are its components?
Improve Customer Conversion
Why do so many people get cold feet before completing an online purchase? Wouldn't it be great if you could identify in advance, and address the issues which are most likely to cause people to change their minds? Even a small modification to your site can make a significant difference.
Why do so many people get cold feet before completing an online purchase? Wouldn't it be great if you could identify in advance, and address the issues which are most likely to cause people to change their minds? Even a small modification to your site can make a significant difference.
Ecommerce Fulfillment
Getting the goods into the hands of the customer is the most important stage in the ecommerce supply chain. But that is not as easy as it sounds.
Getting the goods into the hands of the customer is the most important stage in the ecommerce supply chain. But that is not as easy as it sounds.
Ecommerce Hosting
An ecommerce business needs a robust website. For that, it needs the right hosting service. Get equipped to choose the right hosting for your ecommerce website.
An ecommerce business needs a robust website. For that, it needs the right hosting service. Get equipped to choose the right hosting for your ecommerce website.
The First Rule of Ecommerce
It is tough for some people to believe, but ecommerce businesses seem to be turning away a lot of customers. Find out some of the most common ecommerce failures.
It is tough for some people to believe, but ecommerce businesses seem to be turning away a lot of customers. Find out some of the most common ecommerce failures.
Open Source Ecommerce Plugins
The following open source Ecommerce software products are designed to be used with specific Content Management Systems (CMS). The list is provided for your convenience and should not be viewed as an endorsement of any particular product. All product descriptions were provided by the software companies.
The following open source Ecommerce software products are designed to be used with specific Content Management Systems (CMS). The list is provided for your convenience and should not be viewed as an endorsement of any particular product. All product descriptions were provided by the software companies.
Two Factor Authentication
: What Is Two Factor Authentication? Despite warnings, many people use the same password on multiple
: What Is Two Factor Authentication? Despite warnings, many people use the same password on multiple
Business Intelligence for Ecommerce
Success in ecommerce is about using business intelligence intelligently. Here's how.
Success in ecommerce is about using business intelligence intelligently. Here's how.
Ecommerce Blog
A blog can really help an ecommerce website. However, you must be willing to nurture the blog. Find out whether your ecommerce business is ready for a blog.
A blog can really help an ecommerce website. However, you must be willing to nurture the blog. Find out whether your ecommerce business is ready for a blog.
Shopping Cart Conversion
Many ecommerce customers abandon their shopping midway. Ecommerce businesses must do their best to facilitate check out. Learn seven ways to increase the shopping cart conversion rate.
Many ecommerce customers abandon their shopping midway. Ecommerce businesses must do their best to facilitate check out. Learn seven ways to increase the shopping cart conversion rate.
Affiliate Marketing vs. Referral Marketing
Despite their common points it is crucial that an ecommerce professional distinguish between affiliate marketing and referral marketing.
Despite their common points it is crucial that an ecommerce professional distinguish between affiliate marketing and referral marketing.
Customer Acquisition Strategy
Acquiring customers is the primary task of all ecommerce business. But that does not mean that you can ignore satisfying those customers.
Acquiring customers is the primary task of all ecommerce business. But that does not mean that you can ignore satisfying those customers.
Privacy Policy
In this era of online privacy concerns, it is important that you make your privacy policy clear. Here is what you can do about it.
In this era of online privacy concerns, it is important that you make your privacy policy clear. Here is what you can do about it.
Product Description
When the customer narrows down their search to a specific product page on your ecommerce website, the image and product description on that page influences the purchase decision. Make sure that the product description is what the customer wanted to read.
When the customer narrows down their search to a specific product page on your ecommerce website, the image and product description on that page influences the purchase decision. Make sure that the product description is what the customer wanted to read.
Hosted Ecommerce Solutions
Hosted Ecommerce Solutions: Small-to-Medium Sized Business
Hosted Ecommerce Solutions: Small-to-Medium Sized Business
Why One Sitemap Isn't Enough
Every Ecommerce site should have two different sitemaps: One for humans, and another for robots, crawlers and spiders. Here's everything you need to know to get started.
Every Ecommerce site should have two different sitemaps: One for humans, and another for robots, crawlers and spiders. Here's everything you need to know to get started.
Communication Strategy for Ecommerce
There are innumerable channels of communication between an ecommerce merchant and a customer. The suave ecommerce player must strive to adopt as many of these channels as possible, while ensuring that they are well supported.
There are innumerable channels of communication between an ecommerce merchant and a customer. The suave ecommerce player must strive to adopt as many of these channels as possible, while ensuring that they are well supported.
Enterprise Ecommerce Solutions
The following list of Enterprise-class Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. The product descriptions were provided by the manufacturers.
The following list of Enterprise-class Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. The product descriptions were provided by the manufacturers.
Ecommerce and Intellectual Property
Intellectual property may be the most valuable asset that an ecommerce business owns.
Intellectual property may be the most valuable asset that an ecommerce business owns.
Domain Name Extension
There are dozens of choices when it comes to domain name extensions. If you are an ecommerce business, how would you choose a domain name?
There are dozens of choices when it comes to domain name extensions. If you are an ecommerce business, how would you choose a domain name?
How to Use Spoon Browser Sandbox
How to run cross-browser tests on your Ecommerce site using Spoon Browser Sandbox. Spoon Browser Sandbox is a free, cloud-based service that lets you run popular browsers directly from the Web installing them on your computer. It supports the most current -- and also older -- versions of Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Chrome, and Opera. Spoon Browser Sandbox provides an easy and elegant solution to the nagging problem of cross-browser testing.
How to run cross-browser tests on your Ecommerce site using Spoon Browser Sandbox. Spoon Browser Sandbox is a free, cloud-based service that lets you run popular browsers directly from the Web installing them on your computer. It supports the most current -- and also older -- versions of Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Chrome, and Opera. Spoon Browser Sandbox provides an easy and elegant solution to the nagging problem of cross-browser testing.
Business Vision
Two decades ago, when I attended business school, I learned that "vision" was necessary for business
Two decades ago, when I attended business school, I learned that "vision" was necessary for business
Magento Go - Hosted Ecommerce
With the launch of this affordable, cloud-based, hosted Software as a Service (SaaS) Ecommerce platform, Magento Go rounds the corner on ease-of-use by addressing the needs of novice users and breaking down barriers to entry for many small-to-medium sized businesses.
With the launch of this affordable, cloud-based, hosted Software as a Service (SaaS) Ecommerce platform, Magento Go rounds the corner on ease-of-use by addressing the needs of novice users and breaking down barriers to entry for many small-to-medium sized businesses.
Shopify Apps
This is a top 10 list of apps in the Shopify App Store. Put together these ten apps substantially increase Shopify's functionality.
This is a top 10 list of apps in the Shopify App Store. Put together these ten apps substantially increase Shopify's functionality.
Ecommerce Security
If we want ecommerce to grow, we need to pay special attention to security. In the absence of a secure business environment, ecommerce has no future.
If we want ecommerce to grow, we need to pay special attention to security. In the absence of a secure business environment, ecommerce has no future.
Shared Hosting vs. VPS
While shared hosting is priced attractively, it might not be the best choice for an ecommerce website.
While shared hosting is priced attractively, it might not be the best choice for an ecommerce website.
Canonical URL
Ecommerce websites often have different webpages with the same content. This can cause a problem in ecommerce SEO.
Ecommerce websites often have different webpages with the same content. This can cause a problem in ecommerce SEO.
Social Marketing Snafus
Isn't this an all-too-familiar occurrence? You go ahead and buy something at an ecommerce website . On
Isn't this an all-too-familiar occurrence? You go ahead and buy something at an ecommerce website . On
E-Business and E-Commerce Management: Strategy, Implementation and Practice
A strong conceptual background makes a professional resilient to challenges that the economy or the workplace may throw up. For ecommerce professionals, it is important that to stay abreast of latest trends, but also be well versed with underlying concepts. That is why you need to read this book: E-Business and E-Commerce Management: Strategy, Implementation and Practice (4th Edition) by Dave Chaffey.
A strong conceptual background makes a professional resilient to challenges that the economy or the workplace may throw up. For ecommerce professionals, it is important that to stay abreast of latest trends, but also be well versed with underlying concepts. That is why you need to read this book: E-Business and E-Commerce Management: Strategy, Implementation and Practice (4th Edition) by Dave Chaffey.
Choosing a Hosted Solution
In 2008, Gartner predicted that by 2013, 40 percent of Ecommerce deployments would use complete Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions. We’re over half the way there now, and although you don’t hear the term SaaS bandied about quite as much these days, Software as a Service is everywhere you look.
In 2008, Gartner predicted that by 2013, 40 percent of Ecommerce deployments would use complete Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions. We’re over half the way there now, and although you don’t hear the term SaaS bandied about quite as much these days, Software as a Service is everywhere you look.
Ecommerce Business for Sale
Given the way things are going, it is only a matter of time that many ecommerce businesses will turn belly up. That might be a good time to go shopping for ecommerce businesses.
Given the way things are going, it is only a matter of time that many ecommerce businesses will turn belly up. That might be a good time to go shopping for ecommerce businesses.
Ecommerce Failures
The wise have always stated that failure is a stepping-stone to success. Nowhere is this more apparent than in ecommerce.
The wise have always stated that failure is a stepping-stone to success. Nowhere is this more apparent than in ecommerce.
Enterprise-Class Solutions
The following list of Enterprise-class Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. The product descriptions were provided by the manufacturers.
The following list of Enterprise-class Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. The product descriptions were provided by the manufacturers.
Ecommerce Business Plan
You could develop one general ecommerce site, or multiple specialist ecommerce sites. This article helps you decide which one makes more sense.
You could develop one general ecommerce site, or multiple specialist ecommerce sites. This article helps you decide which one makes more sense.
Ecommerce Best Practices by Thomas M McFadyen
Frankly, what grabbed my attention with this book was the title. In my ecommerce experience as well as
Frankly, what grabbed my attention with this book was the title. In my ecommerce experience as well as
The ABCs of A/B Testing
If you've ever had your eyes examined, then you already know something about A/B Testing. Which do you like better? This one... or that one? A or B?
If you've ever had your eyes examined, then you already know something about A/B Testing. Which do you like better? This one... or that one? A or B?
Ecommerce in 2013
On the one hand, predicting the future of ecommerce is an exercise fraught with risk. On the other, we have to try and foresee macro-trends so that we are better prepared.
On the one hand, predicting the future of ecommerce is an exercise fraught with risk. On the other, we have to try and foresee macro-trends so that we are better prepared.
Reverse Logistics
While ecommerce logistics focus on delivering goods to the customer, reverse ecommerce logistics deal with getting goods back to the ecommerce business.
While ecommerce logistics focus on delivering goods to the customer, reverse ecommerce logistics deal with getting goods back to the ecommerce business.
How to Estimate Site Traffic
Online retail expert, Roger Willcocks, owner of UK-based agency Screen Pages, shares a simple formula for estimating the amount of traffic necessary to reach your sales goal.
Online retail expert, Roger Willcocks, owner of UK-based agency Screen Pages, shares a simple formula for estimating the amount of traffic necessary to reach your sales goal.
Top 10 Ecommerce Books
There is no better teacher than a great book. That is what encourages me to put together this list of the top 10 ecommerce books.
There is no better teacher than a great book. That is what encourages me to put together this list of the top 10 ecommerce books.
Clickstream
Figuring out the customer is never easy. But if you were to analyse their online behavior, you would get great clues.
Figuring out the customer is never easy. But if you were to analyse their online behavior, you would get great clues.
Enterprise Ecommerce Software
The following list of Enterprise-class Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. The product descriptions were provided by the manufacturers.
The following list of Enterprise-class Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. The product descriptions were provided by the manufacturers.
Link Building Strategies
Links are the primary means of hyper-text navigation on the Internet. Find out how you can develop link-love for your ecommerce website.
Links are the primary means of hyper-text navigation on the Internet. Find out how you can develop link-love for your ecommerce website.
The Complete E-Commerce Book by Janice Reynolds
A common claim by several ecommerce books is that they are "complete" guides. Some books fit the bill
A common claim by several ecommerce books is that they are "complete" guides. Some books fit the bill
Content Marketing
Some think of it as a fad, but there are many compelling reasons to employ content marketing techniques for ecommerce.
Some think of it as a fad, but there are many compelling reasons to employ content marketing techniques for ecommerce.
SEO for Ecommerce
Ecommerce websites usually do not invest significantly in SEO. That is why a little SEO effort can go a long way.
Ecommerce websites usually do not invest significantly in SEO. That is why a little SEO effort can go a long way.
Ecommerce Invoice
The invoice is not just yet another document. It is an official record of sale, and is a necessary part of the business of ecommerce.
The invoice is not just yet another document. It is an official record of sale, and is a necessary part of the business of ecommerce.
Barriers to Entry in the Ecommerce Business
Most successful businesses enjoy some protection from barriers to entry. Ecommerce businesses are not one of them.
Most successful businesses enjoy some protection from barriers to entry. Ecommerce businesses are not one of them.
The Ecommerce Professional
Not every person can become a great ecommerce professional. There are some characteristics that differentiate a winner.
Not every person can become a great ecommerce professional. There are some characteristics that differentiate a winner.
Ecommerce Shopping Cart Software
There are so many versions of what constitutes a shopping cart on an ecommerce website. It is almost like the story of the blind men and the elephant.
There are so many versions of what constitutes a shopping cart on an ecommerce website. It is almost like the story of the blind men and the elephant.
Ecommerce Business Model
Discounting and overspending on acquiring new customers is driving many businesses into the dust. Let's stop this craziness.
Discounting and overspending on acquiring new customers is driving many businesses into the dust. Let's stop this craziness.
E-Commerce 2012 by Kenneth Laudon and Carol Guercio Traver
In the past decade, ecommerce has grown to a mammoth-sized industry. Rather than being a side interest
In the past decade, ecommerce has grown to a mammoth-sized industry. Rather than being a side interest
What Is Open Source Software?
Perhaps you, like so many other computer users, spend a good deal of time using commercial software products. Even if you're a diehard Microsoft or Apple user, it's entirely possible that you also use some open source software. If you've ever used Firefox, then you have already crossed over to the other side. If you're tempted to buy an Android smartphone -- well, that's open source, too. So what's all the fuss about open source software, and is it something you can use?
Perhaps you, like so many other computer users, spend a good deal of time using commercial software products. Even if you're a diehard Microsoft or Apple user, it's entirely possible that you also use some open source software. If you've ever used Firefox, then you have already crossed over to the other side. If you're tempted to buy an Android smartphone -- well, that's open source, too. So what's all the fuss about open source software, and is it something you can use?
Ecommerce Business Blog Strategy
How to blog without creating unnecessary work for yourself.
How to blog without creating unnecessary work for yourself.
Maximizing Ecommerce Profits
Once you have done all you can do, you will have to come up with innovative means to improve profitability. But at the early stages, you need to make sure that you have the basics in place.
Once you have done all you can do, you will have to come up with innovative means to improve profitability. But at the early stages, you need to make sure that you have the basics in place.
Ecommerce Images
Images attract customers. They are a proxy for the product itself. Make sure that the images on your ecommerce website are up to the mark.
Images attract customers. They are a proxy for the product itself. Make sure that the images on your ecommerce website are up to the mark.
Starting an Online Business for Dummies
If you have read my review of the book Ecommerce for Dummies , you would recollect my mentioning that
If you have read my review of the book Ecommerce for Dummies , you would recollect my mentioning that
Developing Trust in Ecommerce
If you want to succeed in the long term, you need to earn your customer's trust. Here are some basic steps you can take to gain credibility.
If you want to succeed in the long term, you need to earn your customer's trust. Here are some basic steps you can take to gain credibility.
Customer Retention
Retaining a customer is the hallmark of a successful ecommerce business. But what can you do to ensure that the customer keeps coming back for more?
Retaining a customer is the hallmark of a successful ecommerce business. But what can you do to ensure that the customer keeps coming back for more?
Supplier Due Diligence
Though you are not married to your supplier, it will help if your supplier can stick by you. To choose the right supplier there are a few elements of due diligence that should not be overlooked.
Though you are not married to your supplier, it will help if your supplier can stick by you. To choose the right supplier there are a few elements of due diligence that should not be overlooked.
Ecommerce Valuations
Valuations of ecommerce startups have been pretty much over the top; from where I stand. Are we at the threshold of a valuation bust of ecommerce businesses?
Valuations of ecommerce startups have been pretty much over the top; from where I stand. Are we at the threshold of a valuation bust of ecommerce businesses?
How to Merge Catalog Data
To illustrate how this works, we're going to do a bare-bones merge into a blank template using Microsoft
To illustrate how this works, we're going to do a bare-bones merge into a blank template using Microsoft
User Friendly Ecommerce Websites
User friendliness of an ecommerce website is not a matter that deserves mere lip service. Businesses can be made or broken on the basis of user friendliness.
User friendliness of an ecommerce website is not a matter that deserves mere lip service. Businesses can be made or broken on the basis of user friendliness.
Making the Transition to Mobile Commerce
Mobile commerce has arrived in a big way, and many online merchants are already mobile-ready for the next shopping season. Suffice it to say, the numbers are staggering. Meanwhile, here you sit on the sidelines with a site that can't keep up with the race. What can you do to make your site mobile-ready?
Mobile commerce has arrived in a big way, and many online merchants are already mobile-ready for the next shopping season. Suffice it to say, the numbers are staggering. Meanwhile, here you sit on the sidelines with a site that can't keep up with the race. What can you do to make your site mobile-ready?
The Japanese Ecommerce Market
As if it is not tough enough to grow on your home territory, international expansion adds a whole new dimension to your challenges. Learn about entering the Japanese ecommerce market.
As if it is not tough enough to grow on your home territory, international expansion adds a whole new dimension to your challenges. Learn about entering the Japanese ecommerce market.
How Not to Use Pinterest for Ecommerce
While everyone is encouraging ecommerce businesses to rush onto Pinterest, I would like to strike a word of caution.
While everyone is encouraging ecommerce businesses to rush onto Pinterest, I would like to strike a word of caution.
Behavioral Targeting
If you understand your customer, you can sell better. That is where the art and science of behavioral targeting assumes such great significance.
If you understand your customer, you can sell better. That is where the art and science of behavioral targeting assumes such great significance.
Open Source Multi-Edition
The following list of open source multi-edition Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software developers.
The following list of open source multi-edition Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software developers.
How to Use Pinterest for Ecommerce
For some ecommerce businesses, Pinterest is the new kid on the block. For others, it is already a substantial source of high-quality traffic.
For some ecommerce businesses, Pinterest is the new kid on the block. For others, it is already a substantial source of high-quality traffic.
Shopify App Store
Despite the fact that Shopify is a pretty basic hosted shopping cart provider, the apps in the Shopify App Store add all the functionality you need.
Despite the fact that Shopify is a pretty basic hosted shopping cart provider, the apps in the Shopify App Store add all the functionality you need.
How Not to Use Facebook for Ecommerce
While everyone is rushing to the Facebook gold rush, make sure that you are avoiding these newbie mistakes.
While everyone is rushing to the Facebook gold rush, make sure that you are avoiding these newbie mistakes.
Open Source: Magento
The following list of Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
The following list of Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
SSL
If I were to choose one, I would say the most important feature of an ecommerce website is security. SSL helps with ecommerce security.
If I were to choose one, I would say the most important feature of an ecommerce website is security. SSL helps with ecommerce security.
Ecommerce Technology
Using the right technology can be the tipping point for your ecommerce business. This is a beginner's article for getting your ecommerce technology right.
Using the right technology can be the tipping point for your ecommerce business. This is a beginner's article for getting your ecommerce technology right.
Ecommerce Platforms
At the risk of seeming cookie-cutter, you should evaluate some of the most popular ecommerce platforms. Here are five of the most popular.
At the risk of seeming cookie-cutter, you should evaluate some of the most popular ecommerce platforms. Here are five of the most popular.
Wholesaler Relationships
Getting the right wholesalers into your supply chain is pivotal to your success. Find out how you can develop the right wholesaler relationships.
Getting the right wholesalers into your supply chain is pivotal to your success. Find out how you can develop the right wholesaler relationships.
How to Use YouTube for Ecommerce
Videos are turning out to be one of the most effective marketing tools. That is where YouTube can become an ecommerce merchant's dream come true.
Videos are turning out to be one of the most effective marketing tools. That is where YouTube can become an ecommerce merchant's dream come true.
Keyword Density
Keyword density is an SEO concept that should have been buried years ago. But it continues to raise its ugly head.
Keyword density is an SEO concept that should have been buried years ago. But it continues to raise its ugly head.
Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World by Michael Hyatt
Recently, I was speaking at an event for ecommerce startups. One of the points I told the budding ecommerce
Recently, I was speaking at an event for ecommerce startups. One of the points I told the budding ecommerce
Couponing
Could you make a lot of money setting up a couponing website? Does couponing make sustainable economic sense?
Could you make a lot of money setting up a couponing website? Does couponing make sustainable economic sense?
Open Source: X-Cart
The following list of open source Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
The following list of open source Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
Social Ecommerce
Social media has altered consumer behavior. Make sure that you do not get left behind.
Social media has altered consumer behavior. Make sure that you do not get left behind.
PPC Optimization
Ecommerce businesses are spending too much money on pay per click (PPC). It is imperative that they spend a lot of time optimizing those PPC campaigns.
Ecommerce businesses are spending too much money on pay per click (PPC). It is imperative that they spend a lot of time optimizing those PPC campaigns.
Ecommerce Suite: WebSphere
The following list of Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
The following list of Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
Bio: Ilya Pozin - CEO, Ciplex
Ilya Pozin is founder and CEO of Ciplex, a full-service interactive agency based in Los Angeles, and one of Inc. Magazine's Top 500 (#161) Fastest Growing Private Companies in America. Ilya holds a degree in Information Technology and specializes in online marketing, user experience and business consulting. His progressive thinking and boundless ambition have championed numerous awards for Ciplex while creating successful, innovative web presences for such high-profile clients as Nike and Century 21.
Ilya Pozin is founder and CEO of Ciplex, a full-service interactive agency based in Los Angeles, and one of Inc. Magazine's Top 500 (#161) Fastest Growing Private Companies in America. Ilya holds a degree in Information Technology and specializes in online marketing, user experience and business consulting. His progressive thinking and boundless ambition have championed numerous awards for Ciplex while creating successful, innovative web presences for such high-profile clients as Nike and Century 21.
Customer Engagement
Customer engagement is not merely a buzzword. It could be the Holy Grail to ecommerce success.
Customer engagement is not merely a buzzword. It could be the Holy Grail to ecommerce success.
Click and Mortar
Though the customer-facing end of ecommerce resides online, what you do offline can affect your fortunes in ecommerce.
Though the customer-facing end of ecommerce resides online, what you do offline can affect your fortunes in ecommerce.
Global Ecommerce
One of the major promises of ecommerce was that it dissolves national boundaries. And that is exactly what is happening.
One of the major promises of ecommerce was that it dissolves national boundaries. And that is exactly what is happening.
Lean Ecommerce
Lean on staffing, lean on capital assets, lean on fixed costs, lean on expenses. That is what lean ecommerce is made up of.
Lean on staffing, lean on capital assets, lean on fixed costs, lean on expenses. That is what lean ecommerce is made up of.
Ecommerce Success Stories
Most ecommerce businesses fail. That is not the nature of the beast. Many of these failures are avoidable.
Most ecommerce businesses fail. That is not the nature of the beast. Many of these failures are avoidable.
Latent Semantic Indexing
LSI threatens to change the way a search engine reads your site. And that is good news.
LSI threatens to change the way a search engine reads your site. And that is good news.
Open Source: CRE-Loaded
The following list of open source multi-edition Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software developer.
The following list of open source multi-edition Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software developer.
Ecommerce Big Data
Analyzing big data is not just a fad. It is the next big thing to make ecommerce more valuable and acceptable to customers.
Analyzing big data is not just a fad. It is the next big thing to make ecommerce more valuable and acceptable to customers.
Ecommerce Suite: Escalate
The following list of Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
The following list of Ecommerce software is provided for your convenience. All product descriptions were provided by the software company.
SEO Copywriting
The textual content on your ecommerce website influences your rankings in search engine results. Find out how you can write better copy.
The textual content on your ecommerce website influences your rankings in search engine results. Find out how you can write better copy.
Google+ for Ecommerce
There is just no consensus about Google+. Most people have written it off, but there are some who defend Google+ vociferously.
There is just no consensus about Google+. Most people have written it off, but there are some who defend Google+ vociferously.
Repeat Customers
The ecommerce business with a larger number of loyal customers will succeed. Without a loyal customer base, you have no business.
The ecommerce business with a larger number of loyal customers will succeed. Without a loyal customer base, you have no business.
E-Commerce for Organizational Development and Competitive Advantage by M Khosrow-Pour
Over two decades ago, I obtained my MBA degree. Since then, the world of business has metamorphosed substantially.
Over two decades ago, I obtained my MBA degree. Since then, the world of business has metamorphosed substantially.
How Are You different From Amazon / EBay?
Is there really room for one more ecommerce giant? Or is it now going to be eBay and Amazon forever?
Is there really room for one more ecommerce giant? Or is it now going to be eBay and Amazon forever?
Ecommerce Navigation
Navigation links and menus on an ecommerce website are a primary determinant of its usability. If a customer is able to rapidly narrow down to her desired product, you have encouraged her to make a purchase.
Navigation links and menus on an ecommerce website are a primary determinant of its usability. If a customer is able to rapidly narrow down to her desired product, you have encouraged her to make a purchase.
Customer Data
Ecommerce websites collect a lot of customer data. What they do with that customer data can make a large difference to their future.
Ecommerce websites collect a lot of customer data. What they do with that customer data can make a large difference to their future.
By Invitation Only by Alexis Maybank and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson
Before getting into the contents of this book, a little background information is necessary. Gilt Group
Before getting into the contents of this book, a little background information is necessary. Gilt Group
Conversion Rate Optimization
There are some pretty basic factors that affect conversion on your ecommerce website. Here is a nifty little list.
There are some pretty basic factors that affect conversion on your ecommerce website. Here is a nifty little list.
Ecommerce Demographics
Demographics is more than merely a word in the marketer's lexicon. Find out the many benefits of targeting the right demographic.
Demographics is more than merely a word in the marketer's lexicon. Find out the many benefits of targeting the right demographic.
Effective Email Marketing
Emails are free, and you can trigger a million emails at the click of a mouse. That does not mean that email marketing is trivial. Learn about the basics of email marketing for ecommerce websites.
Emails are free, and you can trigger a million emails at the click of a mouse. That does not mean that email marketing is trivial. Learn about the basics of email marketing for ecommerce websites.
Domain Name Protection
The domain name of your ecommerce website is crucial to your business. But it may not be safe.
The domain name of your ecommerce website is crucial to your business. But it may not be safe.
Ecommerce Business Ideas
While there are several advanced ecommerce thoughts, it usually boils down to some basic ideas. Here are some tips for success in ecommerce.
While there are several advanced ecommerce thoughts, it usually boils down to some basic ideas. Here are some tips for success in ecommerce.
Niche Ecommerce
You must resist the temptation to be everything to every body. Setting up a niche store dramatically increases your likelihood of success.
You must resist the temptation to be everything to every body. Setting up a niche store dramatically increases your likelihood of success.
Makers: The New Industrial Revolution by Chris Anderson
In many of my recent discussions with ecommerce entrepreneurs, I find myself getting frustrated at the
In many of my recent discussions with ecommerce entrepreneurs, I find myself getting frustrated at the
Branding in an Ecommerce Era
Sure, there are online brands. But they are not the same as the strong offline brands.
Sure, there are online brands. But they are not the same as the strong offline brands.
Governments and Ecommerce
It is best to keep governments away from intervening in the ecommerce marketplace
It is best to keep governments away from intervening in the ecommerce marketplace
Open Source Ecommerce Solutions
If you, like so many other computer users, spend most of your time using Microsoft or Apple products, you may already use open source software and not even know it. If you have ever used the Firefox browser, then you have already crossed over to the other side. If you're tempted to buy an Android smartphone -- well, that's open source. So what is all this fuss about open source software, and what does it mean for you?
If you, like so many other computer users, spend most of your time using Microsoft or Apple products, you may already use open source software and not even know it. If you have ever used the Firefox browser, then you have already crossed over to the other side. If you're tempted to buy an Android smartphone -- well, that's open source. So what is all this fuss about open source software, and what does it mean for you?
Mobile Ecommerce
Why would someone go through the rigmarole of switching on one's desktop computer if one has similar computational power in one's handheld device? The era of mobile commerce is upon us.
Why would someone go through the rigmarole of switching on one's desktop computer if one has similar computational power in one's handheld device? The era of mobile commerce is upon us.
Google Authorship and Ecommerce
Ownership of your original content is of paramount importance. Google authorship allows you to do just that.
Ownership of your original content is of paramount importance. Google authorship allows you to do just that.
LinkedIn for Ecommerce
Of all the social media platforms out there, it is LinkedIn that is clearly the leader when it comes to professionals sharing with professionals. But how can you use it for your ecommerce business?
Of all the social media platforms out there, it is LinkedIn that is clearly the leader when it comes to professionals sharing with professionals. But how can you use it for your ecommerce business?
The Path to Purchase
Studies show that an online store with a well-defined path-to-purchase can sell two- to three-times more than a site a with poorly-designed purchase process. However, unlike shoppers at an Ikea store who are led down a predetermined path through the store, online shoppers typically follow a round-about, nonlinear path that, at first, can be hard to predict.
Studies show that an online store with a well-defined path-to-purchase can sell two- to three-times more than a site a with poorly-designed purchase process. However, unlike shoppers at an Ikea store who are led down a predetermined path through the store, online shoppers typically follow a round-about, nonlinear path that, at first, can be hard to predict.