And, eCommerce as a general industry only shows signs of growth. The last 5 years have been meteoric, so if they are any indicator for the future, things are looking good for online sales.

Plus, selling online opens doors that just wouldn’t be opened if you only operated brick and mortar locations. Online, you can sell to anyone in the country, and in a sense, anyone in the world – not just the people in your neighborhood. 

Also, with so many popular SaaS platforms that are user-friendly, it’s never been easier to launch an online store. 

So, with that said, let’s take a look at how to do just that, from a very high level. 

Define Your Target Market 

Other digital marketers might have you determine what you want to sell, or even design a brand, before you determine your target audience. 

I’m breaking from them. I think you need to define your target market first, before you actually start an online store. That way, you can define your own core competencies before you determine what you’re going to sell. 

Knowing who you’re going to sell to will determine everything else, from the products to the brand to the online storefront itself – as well as how you will market it. 

There are a few main things to keep in mind when you’re trying to identify a target market. Some of these are: 

• Demographics, which are factors such as age, gender, education, income, trade, background and ethnicity, cultural identity, and other similar attributes. 
• Location, which gives where the indicated member of your target market lives, works, or otherwise spends a lot of time.
• Interests, which are relatively self explanatory – what do the members of your target market like to do or learn about?
• Psychographics, which determine how your target audience views themselves, what values they hold and how they align with information. 

From here, you can segment your target audience into a few different groups of key buyer personas – that is, a specific identity of an “ideal” customer. This is the “person” to whom you will be marketing and selling. (Keep in mind here that a brand may have more than one buyer persona.)

Determine What You Will Sell 

Once you know the people to whom you’ll be marketing and selling, you can determine what you want to sell. 

All buyer personas have problems or pain points that you can help them solve with a product or service – so what will it be?

In this day and age, you’re probably going to get your products from a distributor or wholesaler rather than manufacturing it yourself, but if you are, that’s good too. You just need to determine who will supply you. 

There’s also the option for you to be the “manufacturer” yourself, in the sense that you can sell handmade goods. Print-on demand, such as in the case of customized t-shirts or art posters, is another option.

Another option is drop-shipping, in which case you will work with other sellers for fulfillment, and will carry no actual inventory in your home (or wherever else you conduct business).

Choose an eCommerce Platform 

Now, unless you are an veteran website developer with extensive experience coding and building websites, you’re going to want a platform. Even if you aren’t the amount of time it would take to build your own solution would be time and cost prohibitive. 

So, you’re going to want a platform. There are lots of website platforms out there but the best ones for conducting business online are those that are geared for eCommerce. 

One class of platforms are SaaS, or software-as-a-service platforms, that charge you a subscription fee to use all of their tools, features, and website builders. Two of the most common SaaS platforms are BigCommerce and Shopify, and another option is Volusion.

Both of these former platforms are compatible with some free templates (along with premium, paid templates) and make it fairly easy for anyone to build and (somewhat) customize an eCommerce storefront. 

They also have native functionality for managing website performance, security, administrative and customer accounts, and collecting payments through processors. If you’re looking for the fastest, easiest way to get an eCommerce website off the ground, this is the way. 

Then you have open-source platforms, like Magento. Because they are open-source and anyone can access the code, they are free to use – but building and maintaining a Magento website is a serious commitment in terms of development resources. They are the most flexible, scalable, customizable solutions, but you should not choose an open-source platform like Magento unless you have the resources to commit to building and maintaining the website. 

There are other open-source platforms that are not specifically geared for eCommerce, but which can be converted to eCommerce platforms through plug-ins. One such example is WordPress, which can be adapted into an eCommerce website through WooCommerce. 

WordPress is free and has a massive online support community, but managing products, orders and customers through it is not as easy as it is through some SaaS platforms. Also, making advanced customizations will not be as easy. 

The bottom line is that open-source software offers the greatest flexibility and customizability, but only if you can afford the resources needed to do so. 

Register Your Business 

Naturally you also want to stay on the right side of the law and also limit liability for yourself. I am not a lawyer so don’t take this as legal advice, but you will want to register your business with local, state and federal authorities. 

Whether you should file as a proprietor or incorporate as an LLC really depends on your model. For that, consult a legal professional who can help answer your questions and perhaps even help you with the paperwork. 

Build and Launch Your Online Store 

Once you’ve identified your target market, sourced your products, settled on a platform and incorporated (or registered) you can get serious about actually building your storefront. 

Start by purchasing a domain. It should be unique and contain your brand’s name, which will help you later on with SEO. 

Find hosting (if you’re using open-source platform) next; if you’re using a SaaS platform, hosting will be included in the subscription fees. 

Decide on a theme or template for your online store. Most website builders associated with eCommerce platforms have drag and drop editors that will enable you to customize the look of your homepage. 

Make sure you create categories associated with the main products you intend to sell and embed navigation features, like a mega menu, tiles, or search functionality, into the homepage. 

You will also want to create an “About” page (wherein you can tell your story) and a “Contact” page, both of which should be accessible from the homepage. 

When laying out your homepage and your overall online store, make sure to keep your overall design as branded and cohesive as possible. When you’re just starting out, keep the number of pages to a minimum as well. You can always add products in the future, but you don’t want to start out with an overwhelming number because that will make it harder to navigate and manage the website when you’re starting out. 

Once you get done with the main informational pages you can get started adding products and setting prices (and options, if applicable). 

Start out with the main products you expect to be selling. Add descriptions that are accurate and succinct, as this is important for both the user experience as well as for search engines to help connect potential shoppers with your products. 

If you can, do some keyword research before you start adding products so you can optimize the page titles and copy as you add them, rather than having to go back and do it. 

Once you add the product, enrich the page with copy in the description. Remember to accurately describe what the product is and does as well as how it is differentiated from competing products. Highlight key features of the products and if possible, attempt to preemptively answer shopper queries in the description. 

Add original images of the products if you can, as duplicate imagery will not perform well with respect to SEO. Still, duplicate imagery is better than nothing if it’s all you have, so use it if you must. You should also include videos if you can. 

As time goes on, you may want to incorporate UGC, or user-generated content, into your product pages, although out of the gate you likely won’t have anything to work with. If the page builder you’re using has a review feature, make sure to incorporate that through the editor. You want users to be able to leave reviews as that will increase the credibility of the page (and your website) and should also increase conversions. 

When adding products, you also need to remember to add important information about variants, options, pricing, and tax settings. 

Allocate Marketing Dollars 

With your preliminary store built, you need to think about how you’re going to reach your target audience. 

That latter consideration is one of the keys to determining where to put your marketing budget and your efforts. 

For instance, if your target audience is very young and plugged into social media, then a dual-pronged organic and paid social media marketing approach may be best. You need to pay attention to the platform, though – Facebook users skew older, TikTok users younger, and then there are platforms like Instagram that users of all ages use, but which is only practically engaged with video or photographic content. 

There’s also SEO, which, all things being equal, is not just the best organic marketing channel, but the best one of all. There are no restrictions in SEO, which means that any seller can pursue this strategy and will not be penalized, even those in restricted industries. 

You can also engage in SEO efforts, while you are building and maintaining your website, so you can bake it into the process of growth. 

Two other marketing channels that you should consider pursuing are PPC and email marketing. With research and optimizations, the former is great for starting to drive traffic overnight. As for the latter, it is a great channel for maximizing the customer lifetime value of each customer. 

All in all, this is a subject you should explore at greater length with your marketing team, and the case may very well be that you won’t just want to pursue one marketing channel, but several in concert. 

Keep the Ball Rolling After You Start an Online Store

Even though this is a very high level exposition, you’ve now built a functioning eCommerce website, after determining your target market, what you’ll sell, and how you’ll promote what you’re selling. 

Now all you have to do is keep that momentum going.

The post How to Start an Online Store: The Definitive Guide for 2025 appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

Why Are Natural Backlinks Important for eCommerce?

Before diving into strategies for acquiring natural backlinks, it’s important to understand their significance:

• SEO Boost: Search engines like Google use backlinks as one of the top ranking factors. When reputable websites link to your eCommerce store, it improves your SEO and signals to search engines that your site is trustworthy and offers valuable content.

• Increased Traffic: Backlinks from popular websites can lead to a direct increase in traffic. When your store is featured on a well-trafficked blog or resource page, curious visitors are likely to click the link and explore your products.

• Brand Authority: Earning backlinks from industry leaders helps establish your eCommerce business as an authority in your niche, leading to better brand recognition and trust among consumers.

Now, let’s explore some effective ways to earn natural backlinks for your eCommerce store.

Create High-Quality, Shareable Content

The foundation of a successful backlink strategy is high-quality content. For eCommerce websites, this often involves creating content that not only promotes your products but also provides value to your audience.

Blog Posts

Regularly publishing blog posts relevant to your niche can attract links from other sites. Create content that answers common questions, solves problems, or offers advice related to your products. For instance, if you sell eco-friendly home goods, writing an article like “10 Simple Ways to Make Your Home More Sustainable” can attract backlinks from sustainability blogs or online magazines.

Product Guides and Tutorials

Create detailed product guides, tutorials, and how-tos that explain how your products solve specific problems. Video tutorials, in particular, can be very engaging and link-worthy, especially if they are visually appealing and informative.

Infographics

Infographics are a fantastic way to present complex information in an easily digestible format. If you create an infographic that resonates with your target audience, it can be widely shared, increasing the chances of earning backlinks.

Case Studies and Research

Original research, case studies, and reports are excellent for acquiring natural backlinks. If you’ve conducted a survey or have exclusive data related to your industry, publishing these insights can attract links from news outlets, bloggers, and industry publications.

Leverage Partnerships and Influencers

Another effective way to earn natural backlinks is through partnerships and influencer marketing. Building relationships with other businesses and individuals in your industry can open doors for collaborative content creation and link-building opportunities.

Partner with Complementary Businesses

Find businesses that complement your eCommerce store and propose collaborations. For example, if you sell coffee equipment, you could partner with a local coffee roaster to create joint content, such as blog posts or product guides. When they publish this content on their site, they can link back to your store and vice versa, benefiting both parties.

Reach Out to Influencers

Influencer marketing is a powerful tool for eCommerce businesses. When an influencer reviews your products or mentions your store in a blog post or social media post, they often include a link to your website. While influencer marketing typically focuses on social media exposure, it can also generate valuable backlinks.

Guest Blogging

Guest blogging is another great way to leverage partnerships. Reach out to bloggers in your niche and offer to write a guest post for their site. In exchange, they can include a link back to your eCommerce store in your bio or within the content itself. Ensure that the blogs you target are reputable and relevant to your industry.

Get Listed on Resource Pages

Many websites curate lists of valuable resources, such as product recommendations, tools, or guides. Getting your eCommerce store or content listed on these resource pages can be a great way to acquire natural backlinks.

Find Niche Resource Pages

Search for resource pages in your industry by using search terms like “best [product category] tools” or “[industry] resources.” Reach out to the site owner and suggest your product or content as a valuable addition to their list. Make sure to personalize your outreach and explain why your store deserves to be included.

Directories and Review Sites

Submitting your business to reputable directories and review sites can also help you earn backlinks. Industry-specific directories often provide high-authority backlinks, and review sites give you the opportunity to gain more exposure. Be cautious with directories, though—stick to high-quality, well-known directories and avoid spammy, low-quality options.

Utilize Social Media and Online Communities

While social media links don’t directly affect your SEO, they can still help you earn backlinks indirectly by increasing your brand visibility. When people share your content on social platforms, it can get noticed by bloggers, journalists, and website owners who may link back to your store.

Shareable Content on Social Media

Post your high-quality content on social media platforms to encourage shares. Social sharing is a great way to get your content in front of a wider audience, some of whom may have websites and blogs where they can link to your content. Use appropriate hashtags, engage with followers, and participate in discussions to amplify your content’s reach.

Engage in Online Communities

Participating in online communities such as Reddit, Quora, or niche-specific forums can be another source of natural backlinks. When you provide valuable input in these communities, you can include a link to your content or products, as long as it’s relevant and not overly promotional. This works best when you’re genuinely contributing to the conversation.

Reclaim Unlinked Mentions

Sometimes, your brand might be mentioned in blog posts or articles without a link back to your eCommerce store. Reclaiming these unlinked mentions is an easy way to build backlinks.

Monitor Brand Mentions

Use tools like Google Alerts or Ahrefs to monitor mentions of your brand across the web. When you find unlinked mentions, reach out to the website owner and politely ask them to add a link to your site. Most site owners are happy to comply since they’ve already mentioned your brand—it’s just a matter of adding the link.

Broken Link Building

Broken link building involves finding dead links on other websites and offering your content as a replacement. This strategy requires a bit of research but can be highly effective.

Identify Broken Links

Use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to identify broken links on websites related to your industry. Once you’ve found a broken link, create or identify content on your eCommerce site that can serve as a replacement.

Reach Out to Site Owners

Reach out to the website owner and inform them about the broken link. Politely suggest your content as a replacement, making sure it’s relevant and adds value to their audience.

Build Relationships with Journalists and Bloggers

Lastly, building relationships with journalists, bloggers, and industry influencers is a long-term strategy that can lead to natural backlinks.

Pitch to Journalists

If you have a newsworthy event or product launch, reach out to journalists and bloggers in your niche. Pitch your story and offer them the opportunity to feature your business in their publication or blog. If they find your story interesting, they’ll likely include a link to your eCommerce site.

HARO (Help a Reporter Out)

Signing up for services like HARO can connect you with journalists looking for expert opinions. Respond to relevant queries, and if they use your response, they may link to your eCommerce store.

Earning natural backlinks for your eCommerce store is a gradual process that requires effort, creativity, and relationship-building. By creating valuable content, leveraging partnerships, utilizing online communities, and strategically reaching out to site owners and journalists, you can steadily grow your backlink profile, improve your SEO, and drive more organic traffic to your store. Stay patient and consistent, and you’ll see the long-term benefits of a strong backlink strategy.

The post How to Get Natural Backlinks: A Guide for eCommerce Businesses appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

The good news is, you don’t need to be a tech whiz to create an eCommerce site in Wix or other eCommerce platforms. Several user-friendly eCommerce platforms cater to entrepreneurs of all experience levels.

Wix, for one, stands out as a great option for beginners. But what about other popular choices like Shopify, Squarespace, and even WordPress with WooCommerce plugin? Each platform offers its own set of features and benefits, so understanding your needs and comfort level is key.

However, if you’re drawn to a user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop editing and a wide variety of beautiful templates, then Wix might be the perfect fit for you.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the essential steps of creating your dream eCommerce site with Wix, empowering you to turn your business vision into a thriving online reality.

How to Create an eCommerce Site in Wix: Step By Step

1. Signing Up and Choosing Your Plan

Creating your Wix store is a breeze! Simply head over to the Wix website and sign up for a free account. Wix offers a freemium model, allowing you to experiment with the platform and build your store before committing to a paid plan.

However, the free plan has limitations on storage space, bandwidth, and customization options.

Wix offers several paid plans specifically designed for eCommerce businesses. These plans provide you with your own custom domain name, remove Wix ads from your store, and unlock features like abandoned cart recovery and sales tax automation.

Consider the size and complexity of your store, along with the features you need, when selecting the right paid plan for your business.

2. Selecting a Template

Your store’s template sets the tone for your brand and influences the customer experience. Wix boasts a vast collection of beautiful and responsive templates designed specifically for eCommerce businesses.

Take some time to browse through the various categories, such as fashion, electronics, or art, to find a template that complements your products and brand identity.

Don’t worry, you can always either customize the chosen template to truly make it your own, or hire professional web designers and experts to build the website for you.

3. Adding Your Products

This is where the magic happens! Adding your products to your Wix store is a straightforward process. Wix allows you to easily add product descriptions, including details like size, color, and material.

You can upload high-quality product images to showcase your offerings in their best light. Setting clear and competitive prices is crucial, and Wix allows you to set different variations for products that come in different sizes or colors.

Wix also offers features for managing your inventory, ensuring you have enough stock to meet customer demand. You can even configure shipping details directly within your product settings.

Choosing the Right Products

• Do Some Market Research: Before diving in, conduct thorough market research to identify a gap in the market or a growing trend. Researching competitor offerings and customer reviews can provide valuable insights.
• Find Your Niche: Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Focus on a specific niche or product category where you can establish yourself as an expert.
• Profitability Matters: Consider the cost of acquiring products, competition, and potential profit margins when selecting products to sell.

4. Designing Your Store

Wix’s drag-and-drop editing tools empower you to personalize your store without any coding knowledge.  Change the layout, adjust the colors, and upload your logo to create a visually appealing and cohesive brand experience. Wix offers a variety of fonts and design elements to help you craft a unique online space.

More than just haphazardly designing your store, however, make sure to tackle these essential tips:

• Use High-Quality Images: Invest in professional product photography or take your own high-resolution images with a good lighting setup.
• Compelling Descriptions Sell: Craft clear, concise, and engaging product descriptions that highlight features, benefits, and how your product solves customer problems.
• Optimize Your Product Pages: Use relevant keywords throughout your product descriptions and titles to improve search engine ranking (SEO) and make it easier for customers to find your store.

Don’t forget about essential pages beyond your product listings!

• Create an “About Us” page to tell your brand story and connect with your customers.
• A clear “Contact Us” page allows customers to reach you with questions or concerns.
• An informative “Return Policy” page builds trust and transparency with your audience.

5. Setting Up Payment and Shipping

Wix integrates seamlessly with popular payment gateways like PayPal and Stripe, allowing your customers to make secure online purchases. Setting up your chosen payment gateway is a quick process within the Wix platform.

Next, configure your shipping options. Wix allows you to offer flat-rate shipping, weight-based shipping, or even free shipping promotions. Clearly define your shipping rates and estimated delivery times to set customer expectations.

6. Launching Your Store and Going Live

Once you’re happy with the design, products, and functionality of your store, it’s time to launch! Wix offers the option to connect your own custom domain name for a more professional touch (although a Wix subdomain is available with the free plan).

Finally, hit the publish button and your online store is officially live!

Congratulations! You’ve taken a significant step towards your eCommerce dream. Wix provides ongoing support and resources to help you manage your store, analyze sales data, and grow your online business.

Marketing Your Wix Store: A Multi-Channel Approach to Success

Building a beautiful online store with Wix is just the first step. To attract customers and turn them into loyal fans, you need a well-rounded marketing strategy. Here’s a breakdown of three powerful channels you can leverage to promote your Wix store and skyrocket your sales:

1. Embrace the Power of Social Media

Social media platforms are a fantastic way to showcase your products, connect with potential customers, and build a vibrant online community. Here are some specific examples to get you started:

• Instagram: This highly visual platform is perfect for showcasing your products in a creative and engaging way. Take high-quality photos and videos that highlight your products in action. Run targeted Instagram ad campaigns to reach potential customers based on demographics and interests.For example, if you sell handmade jewelry, use captivating photos of models wearing your pieces and target your ads towards users interested in fashion and accessories.
• Facebook: Create a Facebook page for your store and share engaging content like product announcements, special offers, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into your business. Run Facebook ad campaigns to promote new product launches or limited-time discounts. Join relevant Facebook groups related to your niche and participate in conversations to build brand awareness.For example, if you sell organic skincare products, create a Facebook page with informative content about natural ingredients and healthy skin practices. Join Facebook groups dedicated to “green beauty” and offer valuable advice while subtly promoting your products.
• Pinterest: If your products are visually appealing, Pinterest can be a game-changer. Create eye-catching pins showcasing your products and link them directly to your Wix store. Join relevant Pinterest boards and collaborate with other businesses in your niche.For example, if you sell handcrafted furniture, create Pinterest boards featuring your products in stylish home decor settings. Pin images from other furniture makers and interior design blogs to establish yourself as a thought leader in your niche.

2. Email Marketing: Building Relationships and Boosting Sales

Building an email list is an invaluable asset for any eCommerce business. Here’s how to leverage email marketing effectively:

• Offer Incentives: Encourage visitors to subscribe to your email list by offering exclusive discounts or early access to new products.
• Segment Your Audience: Don’t send generic emails to everyone. Segment your email list based on customer preferences and purchase history. This allows you to send targeted emails with more relevant content and offers. For example, you could segment your list by customer interest in specific product categories and send targeted emails promoting new arrivals in those categories.
• Create Engaging Content: Don’t just bombard your subscribers with sales pitches. Send informative and engaging newsletters with valuable content related to your products or niche. This could include blog posts, DIY tutorials, or industry trends. For example, if you sell sporting equipment, send an email newsletter with tips on how to choose the right running shoes or training routines for beginners.

3. SEO: The Art of Getting Found Online

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps your Wix store rank higher in search engine results, making it easier for potential customers to find you. Here’s how to get started:

• Keyword Research: Identify relevant keywords that people might use to search for products like yours. There are many free and paid keyword research tools available online.
• Optimize Your Content: Incorporate your target keywords throughout your product descriptions, page titles, and website content. However, ensure the content reads naturally and avoids keyword stuffing.
• Build Backlinks: Backlinks are links from other websites to your store. The more high-quality backlinks you have, the higher your website will rank in search engine results. Guest blogging on relevant websites or participating in online forums can help you build backlinks. For example, if you sell eco-friendly cleaning products, reach out to bloggers who write about sustainable living and offer to write a guest post about the benefits of using natural cleaning solutions.

By implementing these multi-channel marketing strategies, you can effectively reach a wider audience, build brand awareness, and drive sales for your Wix store. Remember, consistency is key. The more consistently you engage with your audience across social media, email, and SEO efforts, the faster you’ll see results and watch your online business flourish.

Remember, building a successful eCommerce store takes time and effort. Wix provides a user-friendly platform and a wealth of resources to empower you on your journey. So, embrace the process, keep learning, and get ready to turn your dream store into a reality!

The post How to Create an eCommerce Site in Wix: the Basics appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

Harness the Power of a Leading Wix Design Agency

At 1Digital^® Agency, we deliver top-tier Wix web design services. Each project is meticulously tailored to boost your website’s capabilities and extend its market reach. Our focus is on creating innovative designs that offer seamless and engaging user experiences.

We understand the unique challenges of building a successful online presence and leverage our expertise to develop visually appealing and highly functional Wix websites. By incorporating the latest design trends and technologies, we ensure that your online presence stands out in a competitive marketplace.

Learn About Our Approach

Trusted by Hundreds of Businesses from Start-Ups to Fortune 500 Companies

Our Work as a Digital Agency

View Our Portfolio

Tailored Solutions for Exceptional Wix Services

Comprehensive Branding & Logo Design

A strong brand identity is crucial for your Wix store. Our team helps you create a cohesive brand style guide that sets the foundation for your Wix web design, ensuring a professional and modern appearance.
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Expert Wix Development

Experience seamless functionality and custom features tailored to your needs. Our team of skilled Wix developers ensures your online store is optimized for performance and user experience.
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Comprehensive Design Support Services

Exceptional Wix web design requires ongoing refinement. We offer comprehensive support services, functioning as an extension of your team, to keep your Wix store evolving.
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Consistent Wix Newsletter Design

Align your email marketing with your overall Wix branding strategy. Our custom newsletter designs ensure a uniform brand image across all customer touchpoints.
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Comprehensive Wix Website Audit

Identify and address issues impacting your Wix site’s performance. Our detailed audits pinpoint areas for improvement from design elements to trust factors.
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Strategic Wix UX/UI Consulting

Effective Wix design communicates your brand story and connects deeply with customers. We ensure your website showcases your unique value proposition effectively.
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Diverse Expertise in Wix Solutions for Every Sector

1Digital^® Agency excels in delivering customized Wix solutions that cater to a wide range of industry needs, both in the B2B and B2C sectors. Our targeted solutions effectively tackle the distinct challenges presented by different markets, enhancing both reach and returns:

• Fashion and Luxury Goods
• Sporting Goods and Outdoor Equipment
• Construction Materials and DIY Tools
• Children’s Products and Family Essentials
• Nutrition and Dietary Supplements
• Consumer Electronics and Accessories
• Personal Care and Wellness Products
• Home Decor and Lighting Solutions
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• Property Management and Real Estate Services
• Travel Gear and Leisure Services

Read More

From the outset, 1Digital^® Agency has spearheaded innovations in the Wix space, creating solutions that significantly bolster business growth. Our approach combines the latest market insights with advanced strategies to elevate your online presence across multiple sectors.

Each industry presents unique challenges and opportunities—our Wix services are precisely sculpted to enhance your digital interface, ensuring seamless user experiences and superior business results. Our dedication to crafting exceptional Wix sites guarantees a platform that not only looks great but performs brilliantly, driving growth and improving ROI.

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Leverage the Expertise of a Leading Squarespace Design Agency

At 1Digital^® Agency, we offer premier Squarespace design and development services. Each project is crafted to enhance your website’s capabilities and expand its digital footprint. Our goal is to create innovative designs that deliver a seamless user experience and drive engagement.

We understand the complexities of web design and development and utilize our expertise to optimize your Squarespace site for better performance and higher user satisfaction. By staying updated with the latest design trends and best practices, we ensure your online presence is strong and competitive.

Learn About Our Design Approach

Trusted by Hundreds of Businesses from Start-Ups to Fortune 500 Companies

Our Work as a Digital Agency

View Our Portfolio

Tailored Solutions for Exceptional Squarespace Services

Comprehensive Branding & Logo Design

A strong brand identity is crucial for your Squarespace site. Our team helps you create a cohesive brand style guide that sets the foundation for your Squarespace web design, ensuring a professional and modern appearance.
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Expert Squarespace Development

Experience seamless functionality and custom features tailored to your needs. Our team of skilled Squarespace developers ensures your online store is optimized for performance and user experience.
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Comprehensive Design Support Services

Exceptional Squarespace web design requires ongoing refinement. We offer comprehensive support services, functioning as an extension of your team, to keep your Squarespace site evolving.
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Consistent Squarespace Newsletter Design

Align your email marketing with your overall Squarespace branding strategy. Our custom newsletter designs ensure a uniform brand image across all customer touchpoints.
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Comprehensive Squarespace Website Audit

Identify and address issues impacting your Squarespace site’s performance. Our detailed audits pinpoint areas for improvement from design elements to trust factors.
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Strategic Squarespace UX/UI Consulting

Effective Squarespace design communicates your brand story and connects deeply with customers. We ensure your website showcases your unique value proposition effectively.
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Diverse Expertise in Squarespace Solutions for Every Sector

1Digital^® Agency excels in delivering customized Squarespace solutions that cater to a wide range of industry needs, both in the B2B and B2C sectors. Our targeted solutions effectively tackle the distinct challenges presented by different markets, enhancing both reach and returns:

• Fashion and Luxury Goods
• Sporting Goods and Outdoor Equipment
• Construction Materials and DIY Tools
• Children’s Products and Family Essentials
• Nutrition and Dietary Supplements
• Consumer Electronics and Accessories
• Personal Care and Wellness Products
• Home Decor and Lighting Solutions
• Business Supplies and Corporate Goods
• Property Management and Real Estate Services
• Travel Gear and Leisure Services

Read More

From the outset, 1Digital^® Agency has spearheaded innovations in the Squarespace space, creating solutions that significantly bolster business growth. Our approach combines the latest market insights with advanced strategies to elevate your online presence across multiple sectors.

Each industry presents unique challenges and opportunities—our Squarespace services are precisely sculpted to enhance your digital interface, ensuring seamless user experiences and superior business results. Our dedication to crafting exceptional Squarespace sites guarantees a platform that not only looks great but performs brilliantly, driving growth and improving ROI.

Expertly Crafted Squarespace Designs

Transforming Squarespace Sites for Enhanced Performance and Usability

Our Squarespace design and development efforts go beyond aesthetic enhancements. We focus on boosting site performance, improving user experience, and increasing conversion rates. Utilizing comprehensive knowledge of Squarespace capabilities and consumer behavior, we devise strategies that address the specific hurdles of eCommerce, positioning your Squarespace store for success in the competitive digital market.

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If not, buckle up and get ready for a wild ride. Here they are, not in any particular order.

“Regular” SEO 

This is the type of SEO that most people are talking about when they mention “SEO” in general. 

This is the type of SEO that deals specifically with organic visibility on search engines, namely Google.

The purpose of “regular” SEO is to improve a website by optimizing ranking signals to make that domain more attractive to a search engine’s algorithm. This requires targeting relevant keywords and results in increased organic rankings in the search engine results pages.

SEO is further broken down into on-page SEO (page titles, meta descriptions, internal links, and on-page copy), off-page SEO (backlinks/link building), technical SEO (structure, page speed, security, and other factors that can influence user experience) and content. 

SEO can also be broken down into content SEO, the purpose of which is to attract new readers/viewers to a page, and eCommerce SEO, the purpose of which is to attract new leads to grow revenue and sales.

Local SEO

One sub-facet of regular SEO is local SEO, which is the purpose of attracting qualified leads to a local business, which could be either a physical, brick and mortar business, or an online store that only serves a dedicated market. 

Much of what makes local SEO what it is has to do with keyword strategy. In local SEO the game is often to target location-specific keywords. Websites can also optimize for local SEO by making dedicated, location-specific pages to boost their online presence in a specific market.

But, that is not the only prong. Local SEO strategies also account for Google My Business Optimization, as well as optimized contact pages that list contact information, hours, and locations. 

Amazon SEO 

It has been reported that Amazon carries 12 million products, if not more. If you include books, media, and services, that number will grow closer to 350 million. While that isn’t Google-like in scope, you can understand how much goes into a search for something as simple as “shoes for men.” 

Amazon’s algorithm does not work in quite the same way as Google’s does, but rest assured, when you search for something in Amazon’s search bar, there’s a lot that goes into producing results. 

Basically, think of Amazon SEO as one of the different types of SEO, a collection of practices that result in an Amazon product listing showing up higher in the organic search results – or not.

Amazon uses an algorithm known as “A10,” the purpose of which is to as closely as possible match transactional searches with the products that users are looking for. 

It takes into account keywords (like Google’s algorithm) in addition to product images (there are very stringent requirements for images, such as file size and displaying the product on a white background). It also takes into account customer reviews, sales history, and conversion rates, when assigning rankings. 

For more information on Amazon SEO and Amazon SEO services, and how it all works, visit the previous page. 

Wayfair SEO

Like Amazon, Wayfair sells an enormous amount of different things, around 14 million, though unlike Amazon, most of them are domestic home goods. 

Wayfair is slightly different from Amazon and Google, though. One thing about Wayfair’s model is that merchants can sell directly through Wayfair or link their eCommerce platforms to it, or both. 

This gives merchants the ability to show up in Google’s organic search results (as a Wayfair page) as well as through Wayfair itself. 

Insomuch as it relates to Google, Wayfair SEO is the same as Google SEO. If you optimize your Wayfair product listings with keyword-rich copy, original images, and display reviews and user-generated content, you have a better chance of ranking in Google’s search results. 

According to what we know about how Wayfair SEO works internally, the effects are basically the same. 

Wayfair has also been fairly candid with users about how to optimize product listings. Some of their top suggestions (straight from their website) include to take high-resolution images, use videos if possible, upload user guides and digital swatches, and to write rich descriptions that are keyword optimized. 

Other best practices for Wayfair SEO include making sure all description and specification fields are as fully hashed-out as possible, and to include certifications where relevant. Making sure your products are properly tagged/categorized will also help with Wayfair SEO.

Etsy SEO 

Fortunately for us, Etsy SEO is apparently much less involved than Google, Amazon and Wayfair SEO. 

Etsy SEO focuses (largely) on just one ranking signal: keywords. So, in a sense, think of Etsy SEO as early-2010’s SEO (minus the spam links).

If you sell on Etsy and want your products to rank, the most important thing you can do is put your target keywords (an exact match, even if it’s a little cumbersome) in the page title, headers, and product descriptions. 

Creative copy is only good for UX in this arena, but not for SEO (unlike Google, which apparently has a more advanced algorithm which is [sometimes] able to read between the lines).

So it’s really about keywords. Use a keyword research tool to check for volume (remembering that these figures are for Google and not internal to Etsy) and then pick a bunch you want to optimize your Etsy products for. 

Update your page titles, headers, and description copy, and you’re pretty much good to go.

eBay SEO 

Get ready for a humbling statistic. Amazon may have like 350 million entries, but eBay has closer to 1.7 billion. So if you sell on eBay, SEO is a must if you want to bring in organic leads and sales.

The platform itself (like like Wayfair) has disclosed what you need to do to get products to rank in eBay’s organic search results, and fortunately, most of these tips are validated by experience. 

In a nutshell, eBay admonishes its users to optimize their listings with the right keywords by inserting them into page titles, headers and copy. Don’t stuff them in and don’t just add them separated by commas. Incorporate them naturally into your product descriptions. 

Beyond that, eBay suggests its users take high-quality, high-resolution images, along with videos if possible. Enrich these with alternative tags, which is good for both accessibility and SEO. 

Make sure your items are categorized properly. The platform may suggest a category automatically but that doesn’t mean it will be the right one. Also, make sure you specify unique identifiers like Manufacturer Part Numbers or Universal Product Codes (where applicable) as this will help users who are looking for these unique qualifiers to find your product listings. 

That’s the bulk of what constitutes eBay SEO, and these suggestions alone can help merchants substantially improve their product listings.

Black Hat SEO 

I will close with one of the different “types” of SEO that is only worth knowing about so you can avoid its effects.

It’s called black hat SEO, and it consists of a collection of practices that either will work in the short term, or used to work but now invoke penalties.

Basically, black hat SEO is any “optimization tactic” that is intended to disingenuously improve rankings by deceiving Google’s algorithms, so that listings appear higher in the search engine results pages (SERPs).

It is, collectively, a group of practices that subvert Google’s algorithms and attempt to fast-track organic ranking increases. 

That’s all well and good, but we need to take a closer look at what some black hat practices actually are. These are some common ones: 

• Keyword stuffing: Adding keywords into copy where it doesn’t make sense, forcing keywords, adding strings of keywords separated by dashes or commas.
• Automatically generated copy/duplicate copy: Never use the same copy as another website or take copy from a manufacturer or distributor. This includes AI-generated copy, which should never be used for website copy (unless it is heavily edited).
• Hidden copy: Some SEO “experts” have attempted to circumvent the penalties of black hat keyword stuffing by hiding a lot of copy on their website. If Google can crawl the hidden pages a website may experience ranking increases but realistically the website will be penalized and this practice is demonstrated not to work in the long run.
• Buying links: It can be tempting to buy links as an easy way to increase domain authority and referral traffic, but most bought links come from low-DA websites with high spam scores. 

These are just some of the most common black hat SEO tactics. There are several others.

In the short term, black hat SEO can improve rankings, but as Google’s algorithm gets better and keener, it’s rooting out websites that use these tactics and penalizing them. 

The worst part is, once you get flagged for black hat SEO, it can be extremely difficult for your website to recover – harder than if you were just starting out from scratch, and if you can recover at all, it will take a long time. 

So, avoid black hat practices at all costs. 

And, if you have specific questions about what these practices are (beyond what I’ve covered here) contact us at 888-982-8269 and we’ll set the record straight.

The post A Primer on the Different Types of SEO appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

Navigate the Amazon Marketplace with Expert Amazon SEO Services

In an era where global eCommerce sales are projected to reach $7.39 trillion by 2025 and $8.56 trillion by 2026, having a robust digital footprint on Amazon is paramount. Your brand’s position in this expansive digital marketplace is crucial.

Choose 1Digital^® Agency for expert Amazon SEO Services. We focus on bespoke strategies that highlight your brand’s unique presence, ensuring visibility and memorable impact on Amazon.

1Digital^®‘s Comprehensive Approach to Amazon SEO Services:

• Targeted Keyword Research:
  We identify and utilize high-impact keywords that your potential customers are searching for on Amazon.
• Advanced On-Page Optimization:
  Optimize your product titles, descriptions, bullet points, and images to improve your listings’ visibility and attractiveness.
• Amazon Backend Optimization:
  Ensure your backend search terms are correctly optimized to capture more search traffic.
• Review and Rating Management:
  Implement strategies to encourage positive reviews and manage your product ratings, crucial for higher rankings.
• Proactive Strategy and Management:
  Stay ahead in the competitive Amazon marketplace with agile, expert-led strategies tailored to your brand’s needs.

Claim Your Free Amazon SEO Assessment Today

Excellence in Amazon SEO Services
Across Diverse Industries

At 1Digital^® Agency, our professional Amazon SEO services have helped shape successful Amazon stores across numerous sectors, such as:

• Jewelry, Fashion, Designer Clothing
• Outdoor / Sporting Goods and Supplies
• Electronics, Gaming, Computer Accessories and Equipment
• HVAC, Construction, Industrial Equipment Manufacturers and Suppliers
• Baking, Confectionery, and Other Culinary Businesses
• Home, Garden, Pool Supplies

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Tap into Our Expertise in Amazon SEO

As a top-rated Amazon SEO agency, 1Digital^® Agency is staffed by a team of dedicated eCommerce professionals who specialize in custom SEO strategies for Amazon businesses. Our track record extends back to 2012, with numerous successful Amazon SEO projects that have propelled us to the top of the industry. If you’re seeking professional Amazon SEO services with extensive experience, look no further.

Our Comprehensive Amazon SEO Services

While many agencies can provide generic SEO services, 1Digital^® Agency’s team excels in delivering tailored Amazon SEO strategies and creating custom solutions that offer a competitive edge. Whether you need optimization for product listings, keyword research, or review management, our experts can turn your complex requirements into project reality. Don’t let your competitors outshine you on Amazon. Choose 1Digital^® Agency for your Amazon SEO needs. We’re known for our best-in-class SEO solutions, making 1Digital^® Agency your go-to Amazon SEO agency.

Why Choose 1Digital® Agency As Your Amazon SEO Agency?

If you’re on the hunt for an Amazon SEO agency, it’s crucial to partner with one that brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record. Here’s why 1Digital^® Agency should be your go-to choice for specialized Amazon SEO services:

Specialized in Amazon SEO

As a leading Amazon SEO agency, 1Digital^® Agency crafts custom strategies for your Amazon store, driving significant organic traffic and sales.

Our Expert Team

Our in-house Amazon SEO experts stay on the cutting edge, constantly refining strategies for maximum effectiveness.

Global and Local Insights

With our roots in the USA and a global reach, we bring unique perspectives to your Amazon SEO strategy.

Success Stories

Our portfolio showcases our success as an Amazon SEO agency, underlining our expertise in diverse industries.

Trusted By Many

We’re proud of our reputation for delivering top-tier Amazon SEO services, evidenced by our client testimonials.

Results-Focused Approach

Our commitment is to your success, not long-term contracts, making us a flexible and result-driven Amazon SEO partner.

Content That Engages

Our skilled content team enhances your SEO strategy with high-quality, brand-aligned content.

Conversion-Driven Strategy

We focus on strategies that not only increase traffic but also boost your revenue and conversions.

Strategic Partnership

More than just a service provider, we are your strategic ally, aligning our tactics with your business goals.

When you choose 1Digital^® Agency for your Amazon SEO services, you’re investing in a comprehensive approach to search engine optimization tailored to your business. Let’s chat about how we can help take your Amazon store to the next level. Call 888-982-8269.

Request Your Free Amazon SEO Proposal

Amazon SEO Experts: Achieving Real Results for Your Products

Our top-tier Amazon SEO experts ensure your product listings stay ahead of the dynamic search trends on Amazon. By partnering with us, you can focus on growing your business while we enhance your visibility and drive more sales.

Get Your Free Amazon SEO Estimate

The post Amazon SEO Services appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

Diverse Portfolio

An eCommerce Web Design Agency for All Industries

A Specialty Box

SEO / Migration / Design / Development

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Fast Specialities Group

Migration / Development / Design

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A&J Cycles

Migration / Custom Design

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The Wireless Age

Website Migration / Site Design / Custom App / CMS Template Development

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Walker’s Shortbread

Migration / Custom Development / Custom Redesign / Strategic Planning

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SK

SEO / Extended Care Design & Development

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A Specialty Box

SEO, Migration, Design, Development

SEO: Oliver, Inc. operates aspecialtybox.com, which sells a wide range of specialty boxes and custom packaging and accessories, commonly used by other businesses in their branding, packaging, and operations. The main value proposition of A Specialty Box is in the form of customizing these forms of packaging. To reach their intended customers, they partnered with us to curate a custom SEO campaign hingeing on commercial and transactional keywords, transforming their website through link building, on-page optimization, technical optimizations, and content publication and optimization to increase visibility for these conversion-oriented target keywords.

BigCommerce Migration: A Specialty Box’s preexisting eCommerce platform was somewhat limiting, specifically because it did not allow customers to explore product customizations through the website. To do so, prospective clients had to actively reach out to them to solicit a direct quote. Their old website did not make it possible for prospective customers to visualize the product options and customizations they offered. We executed a data migration to a newly designed and developed BigCommerce store that made it possible to explore the packaging customizations offered, right on the product page, complete with a visualizer through Doogma.

Custom Design and Development: The new BigCommerce website to which we migrated A Specialty Box’s store was complete with a redesigned homepage that made it easier to navigate and more modern while preserving the essence of their branding. It also offered a far superior mobile optimization experience, which benefited both UX and SEO directly. In addition, we redesigned their product page template so that product customization and options would be visible through the product page, complete with a visualizer that enabled potential customers to envision the requested option or customization.

Fast Specialities Group

Migration, Development, Design

Migration and Development: Fast Specialties Group, operating from FastHemis and FastScions, needed a solution that was both more flexible and more scalable than what was offered by the original eCommerce platform on which they were built. They partnered with us to execute a carefully-planned, custom-tailored migration to Shopify. As is customary in this industry, the products sold have a great deal of minute specifications which must be accurately reflected in order to ensure customers can make appropriate purchases based on make, model, year, and other qualifiers. Shopify’s native functionality only allows for three product options; we worked with them to configure a plugin that allowed products to be expanded with additional options, and ensured that the data was transferred accurately to a waiting field, either in Shopify or through the plugin.

Custom Design: Concurrent with the migration, Fast Specialties Group also partnered with us to complete a custom redesign of both their websites. The new designs featured bolder, more brand-aligned colors, not only in the standard features and background, but also in the visuals and hover over effects. We also designed their mega menu with custom visuals to support each category represented. Moreover, our designers customized a “Popular Hemis” for FastHemis and a “Popular Scions” for FastScions, for each of the homepages, to help streamline the customer journey and shorten the sales funnel, improving both the user experience (UX) and conversion rate optimization (CRO) of each site. Lastly, because these were two sister sites, we created one design and then adjusted it slightly to reflect the same basic brand aesthetics, effectively granting the client two custom designs for the price of one and change.

A&J Cycles

Migration, Custom Design

WooCommerce to Shopify Migration: A&J Cycles is a premiere supplier of motorcycle parts and a trusted partner of its customers, whom they help to create custom builds. Previously, the company was working on a WordPress website outfitted with WooCommerce, but needed a more robust, scalable, eCommerce-friendly solution; Shopify. All migrations come with challenges, but in this specific situation, the A&J Cycles had a unique hurdle. In this industry, precise, filtered search for parts by make, model and year are necessary to connect shoppers with parts they need. Because the product tag options were not completely identical between WordPress and Shopify, our migration experts wrote a custom script to ensure that products were accurately assigned in the new store and would populate, appropriately, in response to user searches for compatible parts.

Custom Design: A&J Cycles also partnered with our eCommerce design specialists to refresh their whole website. Overall, we created a new website design that utilized a sleeker, darker color palette that was more color-aligned and user-friendly, placing emphasis on the products without distracting. In addition, we customized the product page template to display the product specifications more succinctly and accessibly, making it easier for users to digest the important information.

In addition, we also created a unique CMS page for the client, a custom builds press page wherein A&J Cycles could showcase custom builds it had either made or helped create in recent years. This page specifically highlighted news and publications that featured some of these builds and was built not only for promotional purposes, but to encourage a higher engagement rate from visitors to the website.

The Wireless Age

Website Migration, Site Design, Custom App, CMS Template Development

Website Migration and Site Design: Wireless Age is a wireless phone service provider located in Saskatchewan, Canada, that works in collaboration with SaskTel, a telecommunications company in the region. Wireless Age was looking for an online solution that would facilitate its customers’ needs to conveniently shop through the various combinations of smartphones, accessories, and service plans offered before purchasing.

Wireless Age partnered with 1Digital® Agency for a website migration from their previous platform to Shopify. 1Digital® Agency’s technical specialists handled the migration of their website data, including products, customers, orders, and content. The redesign of the website included an emphasis on better serving their local customers, with prominent location-based callouts on the homepage that advertise their brick-and-mortar shops across the province. Checkout functionality in Shopify also helps customers who shop online to pick up their order in the Wireless Age store closest to them.

Custom App and CMS Template Development: In addition to website migration and redesign, 1Digital® Agency executed several advanced custom development features for this client, including a custom app and a specialized content page template.

Our developers created and integrated a custom app through Shopify’s API, that takes customers through a step-by-step purchase process for getting a new smartphone. The widget, which appears on all smartphone products, guides customers through options like Data Plan, Voice Plan, and Protection Plan. Everything that a customer would be able to sign up for when shopping for a new phone in a physical Wireless Age store is displayed through the app on the website. This app also displays FPT (or “Frequently Purchased Together”) products and gives the website administrator the flexibility to manually select them to encourage cross-selling opportunities.

We also developed a custom content page template that Wireless Age uses to categorize and summarize information regarding their service plans for cellular, internet, and TV in distinct, convenient locations, making it much easier for their customers to sift through the large sums of information associated with each. This feature helps to improve the user experience and furnishes visitors to their website with easily digestible information relevant to the plans offered by Wireless Age. This template can be reused and edited with Shopify’s page builder features and plan information changes in the years to come.

Walker’s Shortbread

Migration, Custom Development, Custom Redesign, Strategic Planning

Migration and Custom Development: Walker’s Shortbread, one of the world’s premier producers of shortbread, cookies, and oatcakes, had been operating websites for both the US and UK on WordPress. They needed a customized strategic solution that would be easier to manage and coordinated with our specialists for a migration to a newly designed and developed BigCommerce Enterprise website.

Because of the scope and unique nature of the migration, our developers had to execute several weeks of detailed field mapping to account for all of data stored locally as well as being pulled dynamically into their WordPress website, which consisted of diverse media stored across several locations. The migration required multi-platform source for all the data, and we performed several test migrations before greenlighting the official migration to ensure that data was pulled, and populated, correctly in the new store. Additionally, we performed separate migrations for their blogs and recipes. On the new store, the blog is managed by BigCommerce’s native blog functionality, and the recipes through a custom Shogun page.

Our developers also executed several advanced customizations for this project, allowing a single store to display unique pricing and views for both B2C and B2B customers based on login information using BigCommerce’s native Customer Group functionality. We also customized the store to allow its inventory management system to track a single SKU for both single products and cases, improving both the customer experience as well as the inventory tracking of the store.

Custom Redesign: Shortly before partnering with us to manage their migration from their WordPress website to their new BigCommerce website, Walker’s Shortbread underwent a comprehensive rebrand and packaging redesign. This initiative utilized new colors, fonts, and placed a heavy emphasis on the tartan they use in their branding.

Our designers worked collaboratively with key members of their team to incorporate these design elements into their new website’s design, reimagining the homepage, the about us page, and templates for their category and product pages. Through the process, our designers emphasized the elements of their brand while updating the site for UX and usability, making it easier for visitors to find and purchase their products.

Because the project was on a tight timeline, our designers worked very closely with their marketing team and eCommerce managers to ensure that all deliverables were executed in an expedited and orderly fashion.

eCommerce Roadmap: Strategic Planning: Because of the collaborative nature of our design and development processes, and their innate involvement with strategy, key members of our strategy and marketing teams were involved in the redesign, re-drafting and optimizing copy for 5 key CMS pages for the Walker’s Shortbread websites. This initiative was intended to position both the US and UK website favorably for any future marketing initiatives.

Our copywriters collaborated with our SEO specialists to identify a series of target keywords with high volume and low-difficulty for each of these five pages, which were the homepage, the shortbread category page, the recipes page, the holiday and occasion page, and the gifts and hampers page.

Then our copywriters drafted brand-aligned and SEO-optimized copy for these new pages, refreshing existing copy where possible and updating key elements for searchability and user-friendliness, while preserving the voice extant on their website. In addition, our content team produced new web page copy for 78 other key pages to support searchability, user-friendliness, conversion rate optimization, and future marketing initiatives.

SK

SEO, Extended Care Design & Development

SEO: SK, a provider of high-quality, unique jewelry, particularly jewelry made using baguette-cut stones, operates in one of the most competitive markets in eCommerce. To compete effectively through organic channels, our SEO specialists had to go beyond the conventional approaches to keyword research, splitting the difference between typical short-tail keywords and mid to long-tail keywords that were highly specific in nature and commercial and transactional in intent. We produced a custom approach built around these keywords, specifically selected for their attainability and viability in terms of volume and difficulty, and then optimized their website around them, published a stream of content to improve visibility, and sowing backlinks that improved domain authority, referral traffic, and organic rankings.

Extended Care Design & Development: This client also signed with us for an Extended Care agreement, which offered them the benefit of superior cross-collaboration between creative teams. Specifically, the client needed a series of small items completed to improve the UX and usability of their website, such as responsive development to improve the website’s display on tablets, as well as updates to their header and the icons it contained. The agreement also contains orders for ongoing work, including but not limited to customizations to their collections and checkout pages. Signing for an Extended Care agreement enabled this client, like others, to eliminate the silo effect and grants access to our team of eCommerce consultants that unify marketing, design, and development channels with a focus on growth.

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A professional eCommerce web design company doesn’t just place high res images or choose a pleasing color palette. Web design also needs to tell your story. We are the type of strategic partner that goes beyond looks so that your site helps customers understand the value proposition that is unique to your business.
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We know how crucial the responsive experience is for eCommerce. All 1Digital^® sites are laid out to fit perfectly on any screen.
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The best eCommerce web design is never finished. We offer all the convenience of a professional eCommerce web design agency, operating as an extension of your team.
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An API connection is an important part of your store that you hope you never need to think about it. We build connections that work flawlessly in the background so you don’t have to worry about your data.
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If you think you’re out of options, that the customization you want just can’t be done, you owe it to your business to give us a call. Our eCommerce developers built this tool, and they can shape it in almost any way they need to. More »

The post Design & Development Search Campaign appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

This case study will offer you an explanation following with real-life data from our clients, dispersed across many industries, on just why content is important in SEO and how it makes a difference.

On the Four Pillars of SEO

There are four main pillars in SEO, according to many SEO specialists. These are:

• Technical SEO: Technical SEO consists of ranking factors such as site speed, security, mobile optimization, and other technical factors that influence if and how Google can crawl and index your website. Sitemaps, site structure, and the configuration of the robots.txt file also fall under technical SEO.
• Off-page SEO: The majority of off-page, or off-site, SEO, consists of your website’s backlink profile. Backlinks from high-quality sources provide referral traffic and indicate your website as an authority. In addition, local listing optimization and presence on social media are also considered “off-page” factors. 
• On-page SEO: On-page SEO consists of internal links, metadata optimization (such as page titles and header tags), and alt data that appears on your actual web pages. Product page and category page content are also sometimes considered an on-page factor since, well, they appear on-page. However, this is straying into the realm of content in SEO.
• Content and User Experience: Content is so important in SEO that it literally has its own pillar devoted to it. Content is created pursuant to keyword research and keyword strategy and improves the keyword density of your website. As you’re about to find out, content is also an attractive outlet for website users and substantially impacts the overall user experience of an eCommerce website (or any website, for that matter).

Types of Content in SEO

Before we dive into just why content is crucial in SEO (even when, dare we say this, very few people read it), let’s take a look at the different types of content that are typically used to support an SEO campaign.

Strictly speaking, any content that appears on your website can be considered SEO content if Google can access and crawl the page. However, the following types of content are typically used to support an SEO project:

• Blog posts 
• Product page content/product descriptions
• Category and collection page content 
• Pillar/evergreen content (such as free-standing content that appears in “resources” pages or dedicated FAQ or content pages)
• Content intended for social channels (can also serve as an SEO ranking signal)
• And others, but these are some of the more important ones

Why Content Is Important in SEO

There are so many reasons that content is important in SEO (see below) but if we’re talking textbook optimization, and just optimization, the prime value of content is that it gives an eCommerce website the ability to optimize itself for keyword density.

There are other factors that Google uses to assess the quality of content as a ranking signal, such as age, length, depth, structure, originality, and whether or not the content meets the search intent. There are also user metrics associated with content that can indicate whether or not it is especially valuable.

But to break this down to the most basic, what a piece of content must do – at a minimum – to generate ranking increases for the page on which it exists (or for a separate target page) is contain a set of chosen target keywords.

If the post – such as a piece of web copy or a blog article – contains those target keywords, as well as relevant information on a topic associated with them, Google will see that page as a relative authority on the subject matter. That’s when the ranking increases begin.

Once Google “sees” that page, it will assign higher authority to it, and impressions will begin to increase for that page (and potentially for other linked internal pages) for the target keyword and possibly for other relevant keywords.

As impressions increase, some of those will result in clicks, which ultimately brings in higher organic traffic to the website in question.

It cannot be broken down into a more simplistic picture than that – although there are many, many other ways content can benefit an eCommerce SEO campaign.

Added Benefits of Content Publication and Content Marketing

The process of generating higher organic impressions (and clicks) via the method above is the bare-bones approach. Of course, content that is just “good enough” and has keywords in it will ultimately not support a long-term SEO campaign – which is why good content is so important.

But just what are the benefits of “good” content in SEO? Well…

• Content educates your customers on the use of your products. 
• It gives you the ability to advertise new products and services. 
• Content can be used as a lead-capturing device (with forms, subscriptions, and so on and so forth).
• It gives your brand a voice and captures customer attention. 
• It cultivates brand loyalty, encourages customer engagement, and stimulates interest. 
• It can potentially help you direct the flow of traffic along your website (with internal links) to encourage conversions. 
• It is highly scalable and an affordable long-term solution. Evergreen content will rank for years and bring in customers on a steady basis, even if some of them only come on as readers. Again, think lead-capturing. 
• Authoritative content positions a website as a credible, trustworthy source. 
• It spreads brand awareness, giving a website/brand greater overall visibility. 
• Effective content can help diminish your reliance on paid search marketing, like eCommerce PPC. 
• Quality content will be read and shared, which will improve your social proof and backlink profile. 
• High-quality content will generate a base of readers that will come back time and time again. 
• Exceptionally optimized content will not only generate views and high-time on-page but will result in conversions. The highest of all quality content itself can serve as a sales generator. Imagine having pages on your website that do the selling for you! Content can do that.
• You only need to post high-quality content once, and it will work hard for your website for years and years to come.

So, as you can see, there are many, many benefits to drafting and posting high-quality content, beyond the basic observation that it can improve the keyword density of a website.

How Content Supports SEO: The Data

There are a variety of ways in which we internally monitor the performance of quality content. Of course, the most important of these – for our SEO customers – is what sorts of ranking increases we generate for target keywords for our clients’ eCommerce websites.

However, there are other metrics we follow internally as well. Chiefly, these are page views, time on page, and conversions.

Pageviews: Who’s Visiting a Website

While a piece of content can still technically generate organic ranking increases even without substantial page views, the goal is to draft a post that actually gets clicks and that people read. There are a number of factors that can impact page views, including but not limited to organic rankings for the URL in question, the composition of the title, and the content on the landing page.

The data above shows some metrics for the top-performing blog pages for a past customer that operates a local automotive dealership. The two entries in red are blogs that our writers drafted for this client. These blogs are both ranking high on page one for very competitive search terms.

Clearly, they are going above and beyond the call of optimized content. Since their publication, they have generated over 11,000 unique organic views – averaging substantial time on page – for the client’s website. The top one stands to unseat their most successful blog yet, lagging by only a few thousand page views.

The above figure from Google Analytics shows blog traffic for a previous client that sells sporting goods – a totally different industry. They do some of their own blogging, as we counsel our customers to do, but as you can see, the highlighted entries in red are among the top-performing blogs on their website.

In fact, the single best performing piece of blog content is an article we wrote for them, which, since publication, has outperformed all of their other top pages. Our top two-performing pieces of content for them (in red) account for nearly 10,000 unique pageviews, over 10% of all traffic to their blog. Both also have nearly 6 minutes average time on page.

The results above are for one of our oldest clients who has been with us for several years now. As you can see, the majority of top-performing blogs on their website are ours (in red).

In fact, our top seven performing blogs for the client have brought in over 35,000 unique page views since publication, averaging more than a minute each. These top seven blogs alone account for over 61% of all blog traffic to the client’s website.

Time on Page: How Engaged Are Readers?

Sometimes, due to some factor or another, it is not reasonably realistic to generate a large number of content page views. Occasionally, the search volume just isn’t there.

In cases like these, it’s not reasonable to try to generate very high numbers of sessions. What a writer can strive for, however, is to create valuable content that keeps readers on the page for longer. Besides, higher time-on-page corresponds to interest, and the more interested users are, the more likely they will be to take additional actions before exiting.

The snapshot above captures blog traffic to another client that has been with us for more than two years. This client is in the tobacco industry and so is PPC-restricted. Blog traffic is modest, which is in part due to competition, and also in part due to relatively low search volume.

What’s telling, though, is the average time on page. Even among the top two blogs with several thousand unique views each, the average time on page is above 3 minutes. It is just 2 seconds shy of an average of 2 minutes (or higher) for all other blogs. In fact, the average time on page for all blogs is above 2 minutes.

The benchmark will vary on the source, but several blogs and pollsters have released figures suggesting that the average time on page for blogs – in the business of delivering content – should be anywhere between 2 to 5 minutes, depending on length and depth. Considering the fact that this client (like all of our clients) is an eCommerce business, the 2 minutes of average time on page is even more impressive. They’re not expressly in the business of selling content, but we do that for them anyway.

This data is from another client that has been with us for several years. They sell specialty cycling equipment and odd bikes. We wrote nine of their top ten blogs – with the one that isn’t highlighted in red being their “blog” page itself.

The average time on page is impressive for all of these top blogs. First, it is over 2 minutes for all blog pages. The low performers are substantially buoyed up by the high performers, several of which have an average time on page in excess of 4 minutes. The top blog, which has brought in over 3,500 unique visitors, has more than 5 minutes average time on page. Users are reading what we write and they are interested.

The client above is another that has been with us for several years. They sell golfing equipment and are regular contributors to their own blog, which is beneficial both to their SEO campaign and to their readers. Still, our writers delivered several top-performing blogs for them. In the past two years, we wrote 4 of their top 10 blogs, which together have generated over 39,000 unique page views. That is nearly 20% of all their blog traffic.

But time on page is most impressive here. Two of these top 4 blogs have over 5 minutes of time on page – average – which is an impressive metric when distributed across nearly 10,000 views each. Again, users are interested, and they are reading.

Conversions: The Gold Star of Content Excellence

While content marketing strategies can lean on content streams to generate interest and foster conversions and sales, it’s not reasonable to rely on long-form content – like blogs – solely for the purpose of generating revenue. Blogs and other long-form content, like page copy, can serve many other purposes without being directly responsible for sales. Other forms of copy, like ad copy and email marketing copy, are expressly responsible for driving conversions.

But it is still the case that sometimes blogs are such home runs that they actually succeed at convincing users to buy directly through them. There are some clients for whom we’ve created blogs that actually result in sales. These blogs, the purpose of which is to provide optimized content, go above and beyond the call of duty, and capture sales.

The above image is worth poring closely over. It features blog statistics for a client that has been with us for over two years. This client sells sporting goods and is in a PPC-restricted industry. We wrote all of their top blogs; the only entries not highlighted here are pillar blog pages; that is, the first, second, third, and fourth pages of the blog, and so on.

Page views and time on page are modest, most likely to do relatively low search volume for the targeted terms. However, these blogs are extremely conversion-rate optimized and are intended to serve as sales funnels. As you can see, among the top 11 blogs we wrote for the client, every single one of them has page value. That means that users read these blogs, then navigated through them and conducted purchases on the client’s website. Exit rate and bounce rate are also amazingly low, at just 18% and 55% overall, respectively. Considering the fact that most blogs have high bounce rates – around 80% – this is even more impressive.

We don’t have room to show it here – but among the top 25 blogs on this client’s website (all of which we wrote) – every single one has conversion value.

The metrics above show blog traffic to another long-term client in a PPC-restricted industry. This client sells airsoft guns and accessories.

Again, blog traffic is modest (although time on page is respectable, as are bounce and exit rates). The proof of success here is in the fact that, of the top 10 blogs on the client’s website, we wrote 7, and over half have conversion value. That is, real-time users read our content and then decided to buy something from the client’s website.

Finally one more client in a PPC-restricted industry. This client sells outdoor sporting goods as well but has not been with us for as long as the previous two. Consequently, our content has had less time to generate substantial rankings for them. Still, 4 of their top 10 blogs are ours, and every single one has respectable conversion value. So people are reading and buying. The blogs are doing their work to generate higher organic impressions and they’re capturing some sales as well.

The Takeaway: Why Content Is Important in SEO

Taking all of this into consideration, it’s clear that optimized content can do much more than generate ranking increases in the organic search results for target keywords as a part of the client’s eCommerce SEO campaign.

High-quality content can also:

• Bring in readers 
• Increase time on page
• And, in select instances, result in sales, directly through the content pages themselves.

Though it’s not possible to guarantee them, these are the things we strive to deliver to our clients with our SEO content creation strategies.

Get Creative About Attracting Long-Term Organic Traffic and Engaging Customers with Content and SEO

Our aim is to create content that ranks, captivates attention, engages readers, and sells. It’s integral to our SEO process. If you’re looking for a provider that takes creativity and interest seriously, we’re here for you.

Get in touch with us at 888-982-8269 for more information. We’d be happy to field any of your questions and get you started with a custom-made, purpose-driven SEO campaign that puts a strong emphasis on the most important pillar of SEO – content.

The post SEO and Content: The Different Ways Content Is Important in SEO appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

The flip side is that an online store (regardless of the platform it’s built on) with a sloppy, inconsistent, or unprofessional-looking website design will leak customers like a sieve.

Take these BigCommerce design tips straight from our professional eCommerce designers to heart for 2022 and bring in more customers.

1. Choose a theme that works with your brand (Consider a redesign if your current theme isn’t working)

One of the best things about BigCommerce is that there are so many free (and even more premium) themes available, making it a matter of pointing, clicking, and typing to get an eCommerce website set up. With the help of a web developer, BigCommerce themes can be broadly customized as well.

Still, no amount of developer work can fix a poorly chosen theme that just does not speak to the value of your theme. Consider a website design audit, invest in a custom-developed theme, or simply redesign your website with a theme that’s better aligned with your brand value.

2. Keep brand focus in mind

It is every bit as important to keep your eyes on your brand as it is to make sure your design is simplified. There are innumerable facets to branding, but keep a lookout for features like colors, fonts, logos, imagery, and other visual design elements.

The size, weight, and colors you choose are a huge opportunity to reflect the value of your brand. Think about the message you want your brand to convey, and then repeat the same elements throughout your website design.

3. Use high-quality images only

Do you know what immediately communicates the sense that a website is unprofessional? Low quality, pirated photography. Customers can almost feel it.

That doesn’t mean there isn’t high-quality stock photography out there. There is, but it can only go so far. Besides, your business model isn’t successful because of how much it is like other brands, right? It has its own value and it communicates it.

Get out there and get some custom product photography that shows your products in action, or get consent to use customer-generated media. Better yet, work with a BigCommerce agency to put a creative spin on what you already have.

4. Invest in responsive development (yesterday)

According to Statistic.com, m-commerce sales accounted for 72.9% of all eCommerce sales in 2021, up from 70.4% in 2020. It is a number that grows every single year.

Equally important is the fact that Google has adopted mobile-first indexing, so it’s now official that mobile responsive websites have a technical advantage over desktop-only sites.

Do you need more evidence? The takeaways are clear.

Luckily, there are many BigCommerce themes that are already fully responsive and mobile-optimized, but if you aren’t using one yet, you need to be.

5. Keep it simple

Few eCommerce stores (if any) benefit from clutter. Minimalism is becoming a mainstay in eCommerce. The elements that are there are the ones that speak the value of your brand.

Again, this is a situation in which many of BigCommerce’s free themes can help, since many of them are very basic, minimal, and straightforward.

Still, the theme does not do all of the work. Remove excess copy on your website, use imagery as needed but down overdo it. An over-cluttered homepage is confusing, off-putting, and can encourage users to bounce rather than investigate further.

6. Simplify and streamline navigation; offer more than one option

Offering search functionality is nearly imperative for all businesses excepting (perhaps) those that offer only a few unique products. Even so, search functionality is helpful, and it’s fortunate that BigCommerce is compatible with so many plug-ins that deliver.

In addition to search functionality, take some time to reenvision your mega menu to make it more succinct and easier to follow. Consider implementing something like breadcrumbs on your website to make it easier for users to retrace their steps.

Add in more than one navigation function. For example, if your homepage has a search bar, consider adding tiles for featured products or bestsellers, too. Offering a multi-pronged approach to user navigation gives users options, improves the experience, and funnels visitors towards conversions.

7. Make contact details prominent

It might not stick out in the minds of online entrepreneurs as an important page, but believe it or not, your website’s Contact Page (along with the About Us page) is one of the most important pages on your website, and fundamental among BigCommerce design tips.

Customers may have a question about your product, about available discount programs, your shipping information, return policy, or even something more obscure. The fact of the matter is that so many online shoppers will simply bounce instead of going out of their way to figure out how to get in touch with you.

Of course, if you have that information prominently displayed (such as in a sticky banner or footer) or as a primary page in your menu, you’re more likely to have customers reach out to you, and consequently, more likely to close conversions.

If you don’t have a Contact Page, add it to your website.

8. Add customer and product reviews

User-generated content is some of the most important out there. First off, customers believe it and see it as inherently credible, and secondly, many customers intentionally seek it out before making a purchase.

For example, according to Qualtrics, up to 93% of online shoppers read a review before buying a product. You can do the math, that’s most of them.

Giving customers the ability to leave product reviews, or even soliciting general testimonials and then displaying them on your website, can significantly boost user engagement and conversions.

In addition, customers specifically looking for reviews of certain products may land on your site (if you have a review available) whereas if you had none, your website might not show up in the search results.

9. Advertise shipping costs (whether you charge them or not!)

Even though offering free shipping is becoming really important to online shoppers, it’s fine if you need to charge shipping. Some customers will still understand that.

What’s not alright is if you don’t advertise your shipping policy and costs upfront. Customers hate when there’s no mention of shipping fees and then they suddenly populate right before they’re about to click “Purchase” or “Submit.” Actually, that’s apparently a leading cause of cart abandonment – hidden shipping fees.

Set up your checkout process in such a way that shipping fees are as noticeable as the cost of the goods and services themselves. Customers may not be happy about paying for shipping, but at least they won’t feel duped.

Besides, if you offer free shipping, this is an opportunity for you to advertise it in a sticky banner, on your homepage, or on a badge somewhere on your product page. That will certainly encourage sales and conversions for your BigCommerce store.

10. Create and display “Add to Cart” functionality

No list of BigCommerce design tips would be complete without this, even though it’s hardly a secret. Make your “Add to Cart” feature noticeable and consider displaying it in category pages or anywhere your products display, instead of just on your product pages.

The color red is both attention-grabbing and creates a small sense of urgency because it is an inflammatory color, but if red is off-brand for your website, just choose a bright color from your brand that creates a little sense of contrast and use that.

11. Create filtering functionality

Filtering through products or search results, for example, by color, size, use, or compatibility, is a huge time saver and helps customers get to what they want to buy more quickly.

The more roadblocks you can remove from your customer and their ability to find what they want to buy, the better. Any impediment you can remove will encourage sales and conversions.

Plus, most BigCommerce themes come with product filtering options. Of course, if they don’t you can always work with a BigCommerce developer to create that custom functionality for your theme.

12. Is your copy stale? Update it! (Make it scan-friendly, while you’re at it)

You might be surprised how much sales copy can make an impact on the overall user experience, and specifically how much it can affect a user’s purchasing decision.

Powerful copy is a part of your brand. It can speak to your users, impacting them emotionally, just as your brand was designed to do. You can also embed valuable internal links in sales copy to improve SEO and direct traffic to best-selling products or for the purposes of cross-selling opportunities.

Generally speaking, overly wordy, fluffy copy is a conversion killer. Be succinct and punchy, speak to the value of your products, or tug at your users’ heartstrings.

If you look at your website design and think “I’m not sure what all of this means to say,” then your BigCommerce website could potentially use some revamped copy.

Fortunately, some professional eCommerce designers work hand-in-hand with seasoned copywriters during the design process, in order to audit, offer suggestions, or even to draft fresh copy from scratch.

13. Add social proof

Social media marketing and management are quickly becoming some of the most important (if not the most important, together) facets of digital marketing. Customers consume content on social media, both actively and passively, using it as a way to interact with, learn about, and connect with brands and products.

You’re fighting half of the battle if you maintain active social media accounts and routinely interact with your followers, but you’ve dropped the ball if your BigCommerce website is not integrated with them.

BigCommerce easily integrates with popular social media platforms, and you can work with a BigCommerce designer to make sure the icons are prominently displayed in order to attract attention and direct followers. Even if all you get from a website visit is a follow, you’ve just earned a lead.

14. Streamline your checkout process

The checkout process is the ultimate test of a BigCommerce website’s design. If a user gets that far, they’re thinking seriously about pulling the trigger on a product. It’s also a place where the bounce rate skyrockets. There’s even an obscure, industry term for it that you may have heard of: shopping cart abandonment.

A BigCommerce agency can help you streamline your checkout process, enabling it to be completed in as few steps as possible.

Eliminating fields that don’t need to be there, auto-populating information for existing customers, and allowing customers without accounts to check out as guests are all good features to offer. BigCommerce has a native one-page checkout feature, but an experienced developer can help you take any remaining unnecessary links out of the chain.

15. Most important: Think like a customer

Finally – and this is nonspecific among BigCommerce design tips – think like a customer. More directly, think like your</> customers. After all, you know them better than anyone else. You’ve become an expert in targeting them!

Do they need to read a lot about your products before buying? Are they impulsive? Do they get easily put off by a surfeit of copy, or does additional information frame your services with context and lend a feeling of authority?

These are questions you need to be asking. If your website design makes you feel like you’re ready to dive in headfirst and start buying, then you’re gold. But if you get lost in the weeds clicking through your own website, well then, you’ve got some work to do.

That’s just our two cents. Of course, you can get the whole dollar by giving our BigCommerce designers a call.

Bring in More Customers with These BigCommerce Design Tips

Ready to gear your website up for long-term success with these BigCommerce design tips? Get at it!

If you hit a roadblock in terms of design or development, you can always get a free eCommerce brand appraisal to get some analytical insight regarding your overall brand.

You can also work with our BigCommerce designers (we’re Elite BigCommerce partners!) to tackle more involved design and development projects.

We’re here and ready. Give us a call at 888-982-8269 or send us a message at Info@1DigitalAgency.com.

The post 15 BigCommerce Design Tips to Bring You More Customers in 2022 appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.