This short post will cover some of the major shifts that have occurred in that timeframe, as well as some changes that are transforming the digital landscape through the present era. 

The Rise of eCommerce: 2010-2020

Let’s flash back to 2010. It’s hard to think that this was almost 15 years ago at this point. There was eCommerce way back then, but less than 5% of retail sales went through a website. 

It wasn’t so long ago that there weren’t even that many eCommerce-only sites like Amazon, eBay, Temu, and Alibaba, and to be sure, some of these (like Amazon and eBay) actually did exist before 2010. But it has only been in the last ten years that many of these eCommerce websites got off the ground. 

Early in the history of eCommerce, sales were stymied by old habits. Shoppers like to interact with products before buying, and the age-old “way” to buy things was at established, brick and mortar outlets. Even the expression “to go shopping” implies a transitive action; physically going somewhere before making a purchase. 

There were also a lot of roadblocks in the early days of eCommerce. For one, there just wasn’t a wealth of websites dedicated to eCommerce. In the early days, there were few (to no) platforms dedicated to eCommerce. Consider that Shopify and BigCommerce only hit the scene in 2006 and 2009, respectively. They existed, but they were new, and they were nascent. Volusion was one of the first, on the scene in 1999. But Volusion, though it’s eCommerce-centric, is not as easy to use as a SaaS platform and was fairly limiting. 

Consider also that transacting used to be much harder back in the past. You can’t pay with cash or even a check through a website, and we’ve only developed unique, easy to implement and use payment gateways and processors like Google Wallet, PayPal and Apple Pay in the past couple years. In 2010, there really weren’t any user-friendly payment processors or payment gateways.

So these things, in sum, also contributed to the slow rise of eCommerce as contrasted to the generally meteoric rise of internet communications. 

There were other inhibitors, too. One is simply that old habits die hard. People like to actually shop for things, and even in the modern era, with AR and VR, shopping online is fairly impersonal. 

On top of that, it used to be that there just wasn’t that much access or accessibility in the realm of eCommerce. In many, many ways, it was easier to go to a local store than it was to shop on the internet. 

That paradigm shifted strongly with the onset of the coronavirus. 

Coronavirus and the eCommerce “Revolution”

While hard to believe it was almost 5 years ago now, when the world “shut down” as a result of the coronavirus, and many businesses started working remotely, as a result of draconian impositions by local and regional governments, many businesses had no option but to start operating solely online as opposed to in person.

While a completely artificial factor, the result was that it did force some businesses to start selling online, just as it forced consumers to start shopping online. 

And, while the political and medical responses to the disease were holistically disastrous, the (potentially unintentional) effect on eCommerce was one of stellar growth. 

As an illustration, eCommerce sales in 2019 totaled about 540 billion. By 2022, that figure had risen to about 944 billion, nearly double. 

The value of all eCommerce sales is projected to grow to almost 1.8 trillion by 2028. If that projection holds, the total value of eCommerce transactions will have more than tripled, nearly quadrupled, in the space of less than a decade.

AI, AR, and VR in Personalizing the Online Shopping Experience 

It should go without saying that there have been many contributors to the growth of eCommerce and I do not mean to insinuate that its rise and subsequent growth in the past few years have been completely artificial, or insignificant. 

But with that said, it’s also the case that certain, select technological developments have also eliminated some of the barriers that conventionally kept consumers out of the eCommerce market. 

Consider the rise of AI (artificial intelligence), AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual reality) in simulating a more realistic online shopping experience. 

AI is a bit more nascent, but AI models are increasingly being used by consumers to help them find information (and potentially products) and even if that trend ends up petering off, eCommerce platforms themselves can leverage artificial intelligence for personalized marketing – such as in the form of “recommended” products that increase conversions. 

With respect to AR and VR, which have been around marginally longer than AI but the effects of which are easier to scale with respect to the user experience, these tools are making a much bigger impact, cumulatively, on the online shopping experience. 

Consider a hypothetical experiment. Traditionally, consumers would shop for items like furniture and clothing in person. It’s easy to see why – you can take measurements of a sofa, for instance, but it’s impossible to know what it actually looks like until you can see it. And forget seeing what it will look like in your home. 

As for clothing, the answer to why consumers have conventionally shopped in person (and why many still do) should be obvious. You won’t know what something will look like on you until it’s, you know, on you. Literally. 

But with AR and VR, there are new tools emerging that offer 360° views of products and which are more interactive than ever before. And even if that were not the case, there are visualizers on the market nowadays that let you “try on” clothing and see what furniture will look like in a simulated view of your home, before you ever buy. 

Are augmented and virtual reality completely replacing the value of in-person shopping? Certainly not. But what can be said without a shred of doubt is that they are increasingly eliminating the barriers that some shoppers have to buying online. 

The Evolution of Search Engine Optimization 

Notwithstanding all of the changes in consumer behavior that have already been fronted by this article, there have been significant changes to eCommerce marketing strategies in the past ten years or so, as well. 

Take, for instance, SEO, which is still considered (by most digital marketers) to be the most important digital marketing channel of all, the most sustainable, the only one that’s entirely without restrictions, and the option that (in almost all cases) offers the highest conversion rate and return on investment. 

But the SEO of 2024 is not what the SEO of 2014 was, and it most definitely is not what the SEO of 2010 was (or earlier).

While SEO is still fundamentally about making a domain (or, in some instances, a specific page) more attractive to search engines, SEO in 2024 is more about optimizing the website for UX. I mean to say, SEO is now more about the user than it is about the search engine. 

Consider, for instance, that Google recently formally announced that user engagement metrics like time on page and pages per session are now officially going to be counted as ranking factors. While many digital marketing folk (myself included) have suspected as much for a long time, it was not officially a “truth” of search engine optimization. 

It makes sense why Google would start doing this – if it hasn’t already been doing so for years. Clearly, a user that spends more time on a page and ultimately clicks through to another page is getting value from the experience. Some aspect of search intent is definitely being met, and that’s the whole point of Google. 

These are also things that can’t be “faked” for lack of a better term. As digital marketers, we can do keyword research, we can optimize page titles, we can compress image files and make websites faster. But there are limits.

So what we can’t do? We can’t force users to spend more time on a page that is boring or fluffy and doesn’t contain the information or content the user came for. In order to do that, the page must be truly optimized for the user experience, which arises largely from a pleasant display, responsive design, and of course, content and copy that engages and informs. It takes a true industry expert (or something close) to do so. 

And the truth is, you can be an expert in SEO, but unless you’re an expert in the client’s vertical, it’s hard to engage and inform. That’s why someone like me has been able to write authoritative posts like “How to Advertise in the Gun Industry” and “Cigar Store Marketing,” and “How to Write to Get Featured in a Google AI Overview,” but why I shy away from some topics and industries on which (or with which) I am not as informed. I won’t show my full hand; you get the picture. 

Anyway, the point is that SEO has evolved quite a lot, perhaps more than any other digital marketing channel. There was a time when tactics prevailed that would be completely unacceptable today. 

What are now known today as “black hat tactics” and which might otherwise be categorized as “gaming” the system, not only will no longer work, but will result in pretty harsh penalties for those that get caught trying. 

It used to be that you could just stuff a bunch of keywords in title tags and in really thin, valueless page “copy” and you would get catapulted to the top of page one.

Today, you need to publish useful, actionable, engaging content. There is still an element of keyword optimization but in many ways it is secondary to the value of good copy. 

Changing Social Media Marketing and the Rise of Influencers 

In 2010, the only social medium we really had was Facebook. How times have changed. While Facebook is still huge, platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok (especially the latter) have really gained ground. 

These latter three – which are largely focused on image and visibility, have enabled users to pose as “experts” in certain industries – or, as you have probably heard them called, influencers. 

Of course, I don’t mean to suggest that all influencers are charlatans. The vast majority, perhaps, are, but there are certainly some that truly understand their industry and are experts in their own right. 

This is highly valuable to brands that leverage their credibility, because social media marketing enables fast-track visibility that SEO cannot offer, and it has in many ways upended the conventional digital marketing paradigm. 

Ten years ago, a digital marketing expert would have told you that (basically) all digital marketing could be condensed into PPC or SEO. Those are still important channels, but through influencer marketing, brands can now buy credibility (and visibility) in ways they could not have done in even the recent past. 

I expect that these trends will continue to shape eCommerce into the near future, though I can’t rightly or exactly predict the ways in which they will do so.

The Near Future: eCommerce in the Next 5 to 10 Years

All that’s left now is to explore some of the ways in which eCommerce is expected to grow (and how) in the next few years. 

First, I’ll start with an estimate. Shopify seems to think that the total value of eCommerce in 2025 will reach $4.8 trillion. Whether or not that’s going to pan out is anyone’s guess, but if it holds, it would represent a substantial increase. 

Here are some trends that are expected to continue to define eCommerce in the coming years. 

• AR and VR are expected to continue to personalize the online shopping experience, to make it more realistic and immersive, and to break down more and more barriers to buying online. 
• Omnichannel marketing, or marketing through multiple channels while maintaining a consistent message and brand position, is expected to become more central to a unified user experience. 
• Subscription models, which minimize involvement on behalf of the buyer and which represent passive revenue streams for the merchant, are expected to account for a larger share of the market in the near future.
• Video marketing is expected to become more prevalent in the coming years, though whether that will take the form of video marketing on conventional platforms like YouTube, or through social media like TikTok, is anyone’s guess. There could also be a new platform on the horizon that has not taken off yet but which will leverage video marketing. 
• One trend that’s expected to shape eCommerce, although this might influence the broader retail market, is one on “deinfluencing” or a trend in informing consumers about which products not to buy, either because they are low quality or because they are not sustainable. Either way, this requires manufacturers to place a serious emphasis on quality manufacturing processes and brand management. 
• Short term financing and BNPL (buy now, pay later) models are expected to make eCommerce transactions more accessible, enabling more consumers to take part in online shopping.
• It might sound crazy, but my research is also indicating that “word of mouth” marketing is expected to make a resurgence. When I was in school for marketing, we called this “buzz” and I remember being told it was the most powerful advertising of all, because it is credible and inherently personal. Funny that something so old and so patently non-digital by nature is expected to have a marked impact on eCommerce, but hey, I’ve seen, heard, and learned weirder things. 

All in all, anything I can say about the presumed shifts in the eCommerce marketplace are conjectural at best, but given the latent trajectory of the overall online industry, it’s safe to say that growth will continue for the foreseeable future. It’s just too easy to buy online, and there’s too much selection, for consumers to revert entirely to in-person purchasing.

The post The Evolution of eCommerce: A Look at the Past Decade appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

But let’s be real for a second—social media for B2B marketing isn’t always about chasing the next viral moment. It’s about building relationships, fostering trust, and providing consistent value. So, which platforms should B2B marketers prioritize? Let’s dive in and figure out which ones are the best social media for B2B marketing that deserve your attention.

Probably the Best Social Media for B2B Marketing

When you think of the best social media for B2B marketing, LinkedIn probably tops your list. And it should. With over 1 billion members in more than 200 countries, LinkedIn is where serious decision-makers hang out. Whether you’re aiming to connect with CEOs or network with other professionals in your niche, LinkedIn is your go-to platform.

We’ve seen the data—84% of B2B marketers use paid channels, and social media advertising is at the top of that list. For LinkedIn, it’s not just about making connections; it’s about finding highly targeted leads. And because of LinkedIn’s professional nature, you can easily engage with content that resonates more deeply with your audience, building trust over time.

And let’s not forget: the buyers most active on social media, particularly LinkedIn, tend to have 84% bigger budgets and influence more decisions. So if you’re looking to get in front of high-level decision-makers, LinkedIn is undeniably one of the best social media for B2B marketing.

More Than Just Pretty Pictures

Now, Instagram might seem like the odd one out for B2B marketing, but hold on a sec—it’s not all about lifestyle shots and influencer culture. In fact, Instagram is becoming a favorite for showcasing B2B social media marketing strategy through engaging visuals. It’s great for companies in design, tech, or manufacturing to visually display their products or services.

Moreover, Instagram Stories, Reels, and even carousel posts offer B2B marketers creative ways to display short-form content. Don’t just post a stock photo and call it a day—give your audience something relatable. Create videos or short articles that show behind-the-scenes glimpses into your business operations or customer testimonials. A well-executed Instagram campaign can elevate your brand and help in creating relatable content on social media.

Still in the Game for Conversations

X, formerly known as Twitter, has undergone many changes, but it still holds its own for B2B marketing. While it’s true that Twitter (now X) has pivoted in certain ways, the platform remains a vital space for thought leadership and conversation. For example, it’s a great platform to share quick insights, link to your latest case studies, or promote an upcoming webinar.

The real power of X lies in engaging with your audience in real-time. You can answer customer questions, join industry-related chats, or even gather feedback on your latest services. This constant dialogue is what makes X a contender for the best social media for B2B marketing —if done strategically, it helps you stand out in a noisy marketplace.

Still Holding Ground

Many might assume Facebook is more of a B2C playground, but that’s not entirely true. Facebook is still a great choice for B2B marketing, especially with its super-targeted advertising options. If you’re looking to drive brand awareness, promote content, or even direct traffic to webinars and events, Facebook Ads Manager offers a suite of options for pinpointing the right audience.

Another plus? Facebook groups. These private or public groups allow businesses to nurture communities around specific topics, which is great for marketing your brand on social media for the holidays. Plus, case studies show that when done right, Facebook can help nurture leads and improve your B2B social media marketing strategy.

Visual Storytelling That Converts

Video content continues to reign supreme, and YouTube offers the perfect platform for B2B social media marketing strategy . Remember, 66% of B2B marketers are using video in their content mix. YouTube enables the hosting of various long-form content, such as educational videos, how-tos, webinars, and customer case studies.

More importantly, YouTube is an excellent platform to demonstrate your products and services in action. The visual medium lets potential clients see the value of what you’re offering before they commit, and let’s be real— how will AI affect social media marketing without video? It’s already happening. So if you’re not leveraging YouTube for B2B, you’re missing out on an opportunity to create engaging, relatable content.

The Human Touch in B2B Marketing

Let’s pause for a second and talk about content. It’s easy to get caught up in algorithms and trends, but at the end of the day, people are still at the heart of B2B marketing. The best B2B social media campaigns are those that humanize brands. As marketers, we need to focus on content that resonates, builds trust, and offers value.

One thing is clear: B2B social media marketing strategy, like SEO, takes time. You can’t rush the process of relationship-building, and the businesses that succeed are the ones that truly understand their audience. Be original. Show your personality, and connect on a human level—because no one wants to interact with a faceless brand.

Keep Evolving with Your Audience

The digital marketing landscape is ever-changing, and your audience’s needs will continue to evolve. The key to staying relevant? Keep experimenting. Whether you’re testing out new formats like live video or diving into analytics to see what works, continuous improvement is crucial.

Understanding the platforms that work best for your business isn’t just a one-time effort. Keep an eye on the data—track engagement, conversions, and performance metrics. Tools that analyze content performance can offer insight into traffic, trackable events, and leads. Your strategy should be agile, evolving with shifts in social media and how AI will affect social media marketing in the future.

So, What’s The Best Social Media for B2B Marketing?

When it comes to the best social media for B2B marketing, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. When you’re already worn thin running your business, keeping up with multiple social media platforms can feel like an added weight on your shoulders. That’s where partnering with a team like 1Digital Agency can make a huge difference. So, if you’re looking for expert support, we’re here to make social media marketing work for you.

The post Finding the Best Social Media for B2B Marketing appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

For now, nothing much, since the ban would not take effect immediately. ByteDance, the China-based company that owns TikTok, has promised to block the implementation of the statute in court. The government also has given the company the option to sell TikTok to a U.S.-based company, or it may be forced to sell it at the end of nine months.

Many small business owners who rely on the platform for their marketing and advertising are concerned about how the ban will affect their sales. However, given the legal battle that might happen in the Court of Appeals, it might take a few years before they see the total effect of the ban.

But those in the eCommerce industry should not be taking any chances. They still need to take some measures to prepare for the possibilities, which can mean they need to use TikTok advertising services as soo as possible.

The TikTok Bill, Explained

Despite being called the TikTok Ban Bill, the statute is formally known as the Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. It allows for the President to call specific social media applications under the control of other countries seen as threats or risks to national security.

When an application is considered a security risk under the law, it cannot be sold in online app stores and web-hosting services until it cuts its ties to the foreign power or government that controls it within 180 days, or nine months.

The US government is very concerned that the private information of millions of TikTok users is compromised due to ByteDance being a China-based company. The government has claimed it has tried to regulate the social media platform, but has remained largely unsuccessful. But the claims against TikTok’s possible data risk is still unsubstantiated and relies largely on it being a company based in China.

Some have speculated that the bill has been largely driven by social media giant Meta, in an effort to become the most dominant social media platform once again in the US. This, and more could have led to the creation and the quick passage of the bill. TikTok has testified before the Senate that it had no links to the Chinese government and denied that they compromised the security of millions of users.

So what does this all mean? At the end of nine months, ByteDance can be forced to sell TikTok to another company, possibly to another social media platform, or a technology giant, or even to a billionaire mogul such as Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos.

Change in the Social Media Landscape?

If the law is implemented, it can change the social media landscape in many ways, and content creators, business owners, and all stakeholders have to devise new strategies to market and sell their products and services.

One possibility is that the eCommerce merchants and traders may have to resort to other social media platforms for their marketing and sales, such as YouTube, Instagram, and FaceBook. Suppliers in China may also have to find other platforms to advertise their products, as the geopolitical tensions could also result in other US-owned social media platforms being banned in China, which was similar to what happened to Google back in 2010.

This could make one company more influential than the rest, especially if ByteDance is forced to sell TikTok to another media giant. It can make the eCommerce industry more competitive, and could result in some small businesses losing out to larger companies that might have more clout in these other platforms.

Another factor that could affect what will happen in the next nine months is the result of the US elections. The bill has largely received bipartisan support from Democrats and Republicans, but it has also received a lot of pushback from many users of the online platform, who come from both sides of the political aisle too.

Most of them are content creators and small business owners who generate their income from their social media revenue stream, but also from the sale and promotion of their products and services on TikTok. Though Biden signed the bill into law, it was former President Donald Trump who proposed the idea while he was in office.

Other factors may come into consideration, too. But for those who might be affected by the bill, what they might ask from the next administration is more clarity and less frustration. This is especially true when it comes to how they can use platforms such as TikTok safely without risking their personal information.

Prepping for the Future

No matter what happens, sellers, merchants, business owners, and content creators have to find other platforms and strategies to prepare for what may possibly happen, even if it may take a couple of years. This means you can still use your TikTok for your advertising and promotions.

And since the legal battle can take at least a year, TikTok advertising services can still help you create content that can drive reach millions of views. You could also use the same method and content for these other social media platforms (in case you need to transition) to consider what options are suitable for you.

YouTube

YouTube is owned by Google and has millions of viewers, subscribers, and creators from all over the world. It is a video-sharing app, but it has more options than TikTok, especially for business owners. It offers a longer video format, and a short clip format, called “shorts”.

Many companies, both large and small, have a YouTube channel, and use it to promote their products and services. If you want to attract a younger demographic similar to your TikTok audience, use their video shorts to give the same kind of user experience.

To start, you can simply go to YouTube and create a channel. You need to create interesting content regularly to attract an audience. There are millions of users and channels on YouTube, so it’s best to use hashtags, keywords, and interesting images so your audience can find you.

Instagram

Instagram has a different approach in marketing and promotion than TikTok, and you need to adjust a bit so it can it your needs. More millennials use Instagram, and many of them are more focused on the imaging features of the app.

In this case, you have to create a strategy that uses photography and imagery to promote your products. Also, collaborations or partnerships with influencers can increase your views, shares, and followers on Instagram. This is very different from TikTok or YouTube, which relies largely on content you create.

You can create short feed videos, Instagram reels, Instagram stories, and live streams too, and it is very suitable for mobile phones and gadgets, which means it’s endless scrolling. And Instagram’s more varied content formats can be confusing at first, and they may not give you a roof return at first.

So it’s best to try which ones are suitable for your products and strategy, and then see which one will work best for you audience.

X (Formerly Known as Twitter)

Though X has seen a lot of ups and downs recently, it can still be a good way to engage with your audience. You can share images and clips, but X is largely known for short messages and posts, which could be good for announcements, sales, and partnerships.

X’s features can be used much better together with another social media platform, giving your audience different ways to engage and interact.

Social Media Will Keep Evolving

No matter what happens, the industry and its stakeholders will react to the politics and the economics of this bill in a way that will only encourage the eCommerce industry to become innovative and creative, no matter where they may be.

If you need some guidance and expertise on how to handle your social media platforms, visit 1Digital agency and we will help you create a social media strategy that will engage and entertain your audience, no matter what platform you are on.

The post TikTok Ban? The Potential Impact on eCommerce 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.

LinkedIn’s Power for eCommerce

In an age where your digital footprint speaks volumes, LinkedIn is the go-to platform for professionals across industries. For eCommerce entrepreneurs, this platform isn’t just about networking. It’s about credibility, brand-building, and differentiation in a saturated market. Improving LinkedIn presence is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a must.

Building Your Personal Brand on LinkedIn

A strong personal brand starts with the basics.

Craft a Compelling Headline: This isn’t the time to be shy. Highlight your skills, your passion, and what you bring to the table.

Engage with an Authentic Summary: Beyond your achievements and milestones, your summary should reflect your mission in the eCommerce world. It’s about your why.

Professional Photos Matter: First impressions count. Your profile picture should not just be professional but also echo your brand’s ethos.

Showcasing Your Expertise

The eCommerce landscape is evolving rapidly. By sharing relevant articles and insights, you’re not just informing others—you’re positioning yourself as someone with a finger on the industry’s pulse. Dive deep into topics.

From crafting content that highlights emerging industry trends to penning original pieces about innovative eCommerce strategies, your content strategy can be a game-changer. Making your LinkedIn profile memorable requires consistency and quality in what you share.

Networking: The Quality Over Quantity Approach

Success in the eCommerce realm often boils down to who you know. It’s essential to connect with industry leaders, but it’s equally vital to ensure these connections are meaningful. A high-quality network isn’t built overnight.

Tips to be noticeable on LinkedIn include engaging in relevant group discussions, offering value, and maintaining the etiquette of LinkedIn networking.

How to Stand Out on LinkedIn: Dos and Don’ts of Digital Professionalism

LinkedIn, as many know, is a treasure trove of opportunities. When figuring out how to stand out on LinkedIn, it’s essential to remember the unspoken rules of this digital realm. Every platform has its unique etiquette, and LinkedIn is no exception. Let’s delve deeper into some of the core practices and pitfalls on this platform.

Do: Prioritize Regular Profile Updates

Keeping your profile up-to-date is fundamental. It’s not just about your current job title or your recent achievements. Think of it as maintaining your professional storefront.

Would you walk into a shop with a faded signboard and outdated displays? Similarly, a stale LinkedIn profile can make you appear disengaged, no matter how stellar your achievements are.

When considering how to stand out on LinkedIn, remember to add any new skills you’ve acquired, projects you’ve completed, and any changes in your professional journey. This way, when people land on your profile, they see an accurate representation of who you are now, not who you were a year ago.

Do: Engage Actively and Thoughtfully

Engagement goes beyond just posting. It’s about interaction. Comment on posts that resonate with you, offer your perspective, congratulate peers on milestones, and provide feedback when appropriate.

Being an active participant in the LinkedIn community doesn’t mean you need to chime in on every topic. Instead, choose areas where you can offer genuine value.

Don’t: Use LinkedIn as Just Another Sales Platform

If you’re looking to understand how to stand out on LinkedIn, here’s a golden rule: It’s not an overt sales platform. Yes, it’s a place to showcase your products, services, and achievements. However, constantly pushing for sales can turn potential connections off.

Instead, focus on providing value. Share articles that offer insights into your industry. Write posts that address common challenges in eCommerce and provide solutions.

Remember, people like doing business with those they trust. Building that trust takes time and genuine effort. Your aim should be to foster relationships. Sales will naturally follow when people recognize the value you bring to the table.

Don’t: Over-Promote or Under-Engage

While it’s essential to showcase achievements, avoid turning your feed into a constant stream of self-praise. Balance is crucial. For every self-promotional post, engage with a few others, share insights, or congratulate someone on their achievement.

In the grand tapestry of digital networking, understanding how to stand out on LinkedIn involves more than just repurposing content and showcasing your brand.

It’s about weaving authentic connections, establishing trust, and positioning yourself as not just a business owner but a valuable member of the larger professional community.

Celebrate Your Achievements

Your LinkedIn profile is your professional storybook. The ‘Featured’ section is an excellent spot for your proudest moments. Whether it’s sharing success stories of eCommerce ventures or highlighting key milestones, this section helps in capturing attention on LinkedIn.

It’s All About Engaging.

Thought leadership is not just about posting but also engaging. Comment on industry leaders’ posts, share your insights and start meaningful discussions.

The power of LinkedIn doesn’t end at creating content; it’s about being part of the larger conversation.

Premium Benefits for the Ambitious eCommerce Owner

If you’re serious about enhancing your LinkedIn profile visibility, it may be time to consider LinkedIn Premium. With tools like Sales Navigator, B2B eCommerce becomes even more targeted, efficient, and result-driven.

Decoding LinkedIn Analytics

Your LinkedIn efforts should be as data-driven as your eCommerce strategies. Delve into profile visits, understand post engagements, and always be ready to adapt.

The key is in the numbers. The path to mastering LinkedIn for personal branding often involves revisiting and reshaping strategies.

The Learning Curve

The digital landscape is ever-changing. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning offer a plethora of courses tailored for eCommerce professionals. Whether it’s mastering new sales techniques or understanding the latest in digital marketing, there’s always something new to learn.

Collaborate and Conquer

LinkedIn isn’t just about individual growth. From finding the right vendors and suppliers to seeking potential clients, it’s a hub of collaboration opportunities. Becoming a LinkedIn standout opens doors, and as they say, when one door opens, many more follow.

Building an authoritative LinkedIn presence isn’t a one-off task. It’s an ongoing commitment. But for those willing to invest the time and effort, the rewards, both in terms of business growth and personal branding, are immense.

So, step up your game, differentiate yourself, and soon, the term ‘eCommerce Titan’ won’t just be a title; it will be your reality.

The post How to Stand Out on LinkedIn and Become an eCommerce Titan appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

To rise above the competition and achieve sustained success, implementing effective search engine optimization (SEO) strategies is paramount. eCommerce tools have transformed the t-shirt industry and now the use of in-depth SEO strategies is crucial to enhance online visibility, drive targeted traffic, and ultimately boost sales. 

cCommerce platforms have revolutionized the online retail landscape, providing entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to establish and grow their online t-shirt businesses. Platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce offer user-friendly interfaces, customizable templates, and robust inventory management systems. These tools eliminate the need for technical expertise, allowing entrepreneurs to effortlessly set up and personalize their online storefronts.

A variety of platform tools like secure payment gateways help to ensure smooth transactions for customers, instilling trust and confidence in the buying process.   Digital design tools have empowered t-shirt entrepreneurs to create visually captivating designs that resonate with their target audience. Tools such as Canva, Adobe Photoshop, and Illustrator offer a wide array of features, including customizable templates, extensive color palettes, and intuitive editing options.

These tools enable entrepreneurs to bring their creative visions to life, resulting in unique and eye-catching designs that set their t-shirts apart from the competition. By fostering brand loyalty through compelling design aesthetics, businesses can cultivate a dedicated customer base and drive sales. Additionally, print-on-demand services have revolutionized the traditional t-shirt business model. Companies like Printful, Printify, and CustomCat enable entrepreneurs to outsource the printing and fulfillment of t-shirt orders.

Through seamless integration with eCommerce platforms, these services automatically process orders, print the designs on-demand, and ship directly to customers. This eliminates the need for inventory management and significantly reduces upfront costs, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on marketing and expanding their businesses.

The SEO Advantage

In an overcrowded online marketplace, appearing prominently in search engine results is crucial for driving organic traffic. Effective SEO strategies ensure that your t-shirt business ranks higher on search engine result pages (SERPs) for relevant keywords and phrases.

By optimizing your website with appropriate meta tags, keyword-rich content, and a well-structured architecture, you increase the likelihood of being discovered by potential customers when they search for t-shirts or related terms. This visibility translates into increased exposure and higher chances of generating sales.

Targeted Traffic Generation

Implementing SEO techniques enables you to attract targeted traffic to your online store. Thorough keyword research and integration of relevant keywords in your website’s content, product descriptions, and meta tags align your online presence with the search intent of potential customers.

By understanding the language and terms your target audience uses, you can optimize your website to cater to their specific needs. As a result, the traffic directed to your t-shirt business will consist of individuals actively seeking the types of products you offer, increasing the likelihood of conversions and repeat customers.

Building Trust and Credibility

A robust SEO strategy helps establish your t-shirt business as a trustworthy and credible source in the eyes of both search engines and potential customers. Search engines favor websites that provide valuable and relevant content, have user-friendly navigation, and earn backlinks from reputable sources.

Consistently publishing high-quality blog posts, offering useful resources, and earning backlinks from influential websites will help your t-shirt business enhance its online reputation, resulting in improved search rankings and increased customer trust.

Mobile Optimization

Mobile devices have become the primary means of accessing the internet, making mobile optimization a crucial aspect of SEO. A responsive and mobile-friendly website ensures a seamless browsing experience for visitors accessing your online store from smartphones and tablets.

Search engines prioritize mobile-optimized websites in their ranking algorithms, providing a significant advantage to t-shirt businesses that prioritize mobile responsiveness. Ignoring mobile optimization can result in higher bounce rates, lost conversions, and lower search rankings.

Local SEO for Targeted Markets

For t-shirt businesses targeting specific geographical areas, local SEO is a powerful tool. By optimizing your website with location-specific keywords, creating localized landing pages, and listing your business on online directories such as Google My Business, you can significantly enhance your visibility in local search results.

This is particularly beneficial for businesses with physical stores or those offering localized services, enabling them to capture customers within their target market effectively. While implementing SEO strategies can significantly improve the performance of your online t-shirt business, working with a professional digital agency can take your results to the next level. Having a team of eCommerce experts in your corner brings a wealth of expertise and a wide range of services that go beyond marketing alone.

In the fiercely competitive world of online t-shirt businesses, implementing a robust SEO strategy is imperative for sustainable growth and success. By optimizing your website for search engines, targeting relevant keywords, building trust and credibility, prioritizing mobile responsiveness, and implementing local SEO techniques, you can significantly improve your online visibility, attract targeted traffic, and ultimately boost sales. 

If you want the best results from your online t-shirt business, consider partnering with a professional digital agency. Digital agencies bring a wealth of expertise and a wide range of services beyond marketing, including web design, conversion rate optimization, content marketing, and analytics. By leveraging their knowledge and experience, you can take your online t-shirt business to new heights and thrive in the dynamic digital marketplace.

The post Leveraging SEO for Success in the Online T-Shirt Industry appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

Despite the challenges of the prospect of a re-platforming project, the benefits may be well worth the time and effort necessary to migrate off your current platform and onto BigCommerce, a platform that currently hosts over 45,000 live websites. This post will explore in detail the best reasons to re-platform to BigCommerce and how it can empower your eCommerce business, especially if you work with a certified BigCommerce agency partner to help you during the process. 

1. Scalability for Growth:

One of the most compelling reasons to re-platform to BigCommerce is its scalability. Whether you’re a small business looking to expand or an enterprise-level company with high traffic volumes, BigCommerce can handle your growth seamlessly. With its scalable infrastructure and performance optimizations, you can focus on growing your business without worrying about technical limitations. BigCommerce is also available in 4 different service plans, Standard (starting at only $29 per month), Plus, Pro, and Enterprise (a custom package), so the platform is well-equipped to grow with your business and its marketing strategies. You can proactively upgrade your BigCommerce store at any time, and all 4 plans do not incur additional transaction fees, while offering unlimited bandwidth for staff accounts and file storage. 

2. Extensive Feature Set:

BigCommerce offers an extensive range of built-in features designed to meet the diverse needs of eCommerce businesses. From inventory management, order processing, and customer management to advanced marketing tools, reporting, and analytics, BigCommerce covers all essential aspects of running a successful online store. This comprehensive feature set eliminates the need for many costly third-party integrations and simplifies your operational workflows, despite the fact that BigCommerce remains easily integrable with a wide range of robust third-party apps and tools (as well as many that are expressly designed for BigCommerce. 

3. Flexibility and Customization:

Your brand’s unique identity is crucial when it comes to standing out from the competition. BigCommerce provides a highly flexible platform that allows you to customize your online store according to your brand’s aesthetics and requirements. With an extensive collection of responsive themes and the ability to modify design elements, layout, and color schemes, you can create a visually stunning storefront that resonates with your target audience. There are 15 free BigCommerce themes with 5 different theme styles and countless other premium versions are available, but you can also work with an accredited BigCommerce partner to develop a customized, brand-integrated theme for your BigCommerce website. 

4. Seamless Integration Capabilities, Many Apps Available 

BigCommerce boasts a vast ecosystem of third-party integrations, with over 100,000 apps available in the BigCommerce app store, enabling you to extend the functionality of your online store effortlessly. From popular marketing tools like Mailchimp and HubSpot to payment gateways like PayPal and Stripe, BigCommerce seamlessly integrates with various applications to streamline your operations and enhance customer experiences. This integration versatility allows you to tailor your eCommerce stack to your specific business needs.

5. Mobile-First Approach:

In 2022, almost a full half of all eCommerce sales were mobile sales, and in the mobile-centric era, optimizing your online store for mobile devices is essential. BigCommerce understands this and offers mobile-friendly and responsive themes, ensuring that your store looks and performs flawlessly on smartphones and tablets. By providing an exceptional mobile shopping experience, you can reach and engage a wider audience and increase conversions. BigCommerce is not only inherently mobile-friendly, but it enables mobile-design optimized shopping carts as well as the flexibility to sell through other websites (like eBay and Amazon) opening up additional opportunities for conversions.

6. Enhanced Security and Compliance:

Protecting your customers’ sensitive information is paramount. BigCommerce takes security seriously and provides robust built-in security features to safeguard your online store. With regular security updates, SSL encryption, and PCI DSS compliance, BigCommerce ensures that your customers’ data is protected, enhancing trust and credibility for your brand. Another great thing about the platform that gives BigCommerce merchants peace of mind is that since BigCommerce is hosted, security is taken care of automatically. Unlike open-source platforms, in which security can suffer if users miss a patch or update, BigCommerce has site security automatically buttoned up. That helps SEO, too – speaking of which…

7. SEO-Friendly Architecture:

Search engine visibility is crucial for driving organic traffic to your online store. BigCommerce offers an SEO-friendly architecture, empowering you to optimize your website for search engines effortlessly. With features such as customizable URLs, meta tags, sitemaps, and responsive design, you can improve your store’s search engine rankings and attract more qualified traffic. BigCommerce offers other features that make it appealing from a search engine optimization perspective as well. It automatically generates and updates a sitemap, offers excellent site speeds and security, and comes with a built-in blog. For the other aspects of SEO, however, such as keyword research, content production, backlink building, and other components of SEO strategies, it’s best to work with an accredited BigCommerce SEO agency. 

8. Streamlined Checkout Process:

A smooth and hassle-free checkout process is essential for maximizing conversions. BigCommerce provides a streamlined checkout experience with features like guest checkout, one-click purchasing, and support for various payment gateways. By reducing friction during the buying journey, you can minimize cart abandonment rates and boost overall conversion rates. BigCommerce also accepts a number of different popular payment gateways and methods and is compatible with several BNPL (buy now pay later) providers like Sezzle and Affirm.

9. Shipping, Simplified

BigCommerce has a built-in shipping calculator that makes it easy and straightforward for your customers to come up with accurate shipping estimates associated with their orders. Moreover, the eCommerce platform easily integrates with major carrier accounts like UPS, FedEx, and USPS, streamlining shipping for both the merchant and the customer. 

1o. Built-in Analytics

It’s never a bad idea to brush up on Google Analytics and Google Search Console, but with BigCommerce, you don’t need to be a Google expert, because the platform is pre-configured with robust analytics and reporting functionality. BigCommerce analytics is a powerful tool that offers insights into user behavior, buying trends, and even offers the ability to analyze customer segments. 

11. Overall Ease of Use

If there’s one great thing about BigCommerce, perhaps more than all of the other things I’ve covered so far, it’s that you don’t have to be an eCommerce developer to figure out how to build a legitimate-looking online storefront. In fact, pretty much everything about the platform is straightforward and easy to use. I don’t personally have any experience with open-source eCommerce platforms like Magento, but I have both heard and read nightmare tales about making the most mundane of customizations with platforms like that. With BigCommerce, writing a blog, creating a new product, updating metadata, and integrating most apps and tools, is as easy as a few keystrokes and button clicks. Not every platform can say that. In fact, most can’t.

12. Outstanding Customer Support

BigCommerce offers exceptional customer support to assist you at every step of your eCommerce journey. Their knowledgeable support team is available via email, phone, and live chat to address any concerns or issues you may encounter. Additionally, BigCommerce provides a vast library of documentation, tutorials, and community forums where you can find resources and best practices, so if you don’t know how to do something from personal experience, there’s almost definitely a white paper or guide out there on how to get it done.

13. A Large BigCommerce Ecosystem of BigCommerce Experts Is at Your Disposal 

Thanks to its large pool of users, there is a robust, multi-hued, talented pool of BigCommerce partners out there. Through its BigCommerce Partner Program, the platform vets and certifies a wide range of BigCommerce experts, including marketing experts, website designers, and development agencies, all based on their experience with the platform and with their respective spheres of expertise. There are three tiers: BigCommerce Partner, Preferred Partner, and Elite Partner, all with varying levels of experience and capability. 

14. Because Migrating Doesn’t Need to Be a Hassle 

Finally, and thanks in part to both the large support network of BigCommerce partners and the platform’s own customer service, migrating to BigCommerce doesn’t need to be a hassle, especially when you work with an experienced BigCommerce partner that specializes in eCommerce migration and support services. While the prospect of migrating thousands if not hundreds of thousands of categories, products, orders, and customer accounts may be daunting, with the help of a BigCommerce agency that follows a proven migration process, it really can be a walk in the park, one that can pay off big in the long run.

The post Top Reasons to Re-Platform to BigCommerce appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

When it comes to eCommerce platforms, few offer the same level of raw functionality. 

But there’s a catch. Since the user is responsible for hosting the platform, security, speed, and functionality all come down to the user.

Some eCommerce merchants just can’t justify staying on a platform like Magento. For some, the convenience and cost savings associated with SaaS platforms like Shopify outweigh the potential benefits of customization and integration that Magento offers. 

So let’s take a closer look at why some merchants might benefit from a Magento to Shopify Plus migration, as well as how to prepare for it.

Advantages of Shopify Plus

There are a number of reasons that SaaS models like Shopify Plus are attractive to eCommerce merchants. 

Many of these are attributable to the fact that Shopify Plus provides all necessary hosting and infrastructure, performs load testing, and provides security patches and upgrades as necessary. That takes a load off the shoulders of the platforms’ customers. 

Shopify Plus also offers its users access to internal architects, Shopify Plus developers, and retainer-based consulting. 

In addition, the Shopify Platform: 

• Integrates with Google Ads.
• Has a native, built-in blogging engine, which supports SEO, content marketing, and other digital marketing efforts. 
• Offers 8 free themes and dozens of other premium themes. 
• Has a native coupon code feature (all subscription models).
• Allows easy HTML and CSS editing, which is necessary for developers to make customizations. 
• Has a live-chat integration feature. 
• Is easily integrable with a huge range of Shopify apps. 
• The platform has an abandoned cart recovery feature. 
• Shopify supports the use of multiple currency settings.
• Integrates easily with most major shipping carriers like UPS and FedEx. 
• Easily integrates with a large range of payment providers.
• Supports a large Shopify ecosystem of designers, developers, and digital marketing specialists.
• Has its own analytics reporting functionality. 

In addition to the general benefits of the Shopify platform, mentioned above, there are some exclusive benefits to the use of Shopify Plus, such as:

• Shopify Flow, an automation feature that enables users to automate workflows using premade templates. Workflow automation can also be customized. 
• Script Editor, which enables easy customizations to multiple aspects of your Shopify Plus store.
• Some apps are Shopify Plus exclusive. 
• It allows you to create unlimited staff accounts.
• And finally, a subscription to Shopify Plus gives you access to a dedicated account manager. 

Drawbacks of Open-Source (Magento)

For many eCommerce merchants, the reason a migration from Magento to Shopify Plus becomes necessary has more to do with the investment required to run a Magento store than from the specific benefits of Shopify Plus. 

While it is true that Magento’s open-source nature makes the most robust customizations possible, doing so requires no small deal of Magento development expertise. In fact, you need to be very code-savvy to do so. 

Moreover, since users have to host their own platforms, server loads, security, speed, and integrations can all become headaches quite quickly. 

There is a large community of Magento developers out there, but at the same time, some issues associated with managing a Magento store include: 

• Magento is associated with high development costs due to the complex nature of the platform.
• Becoming familiar with the platform entails a steep learning curve and a large investment in time. 
• Magento hosting is resource intensive.
• According to some users, Magento is far too over-engineered for average users – who, by the way, generally happen to be eCommerce entrepreneurs and not computer scientists. 

All of this might sound simple but really it adds up to one glaring truth: running a Magento store gets expensive, quickly. 

Why Magento to Shopify Plus Migration Can Benefit Your Business?

In terms of the cost and time investments it takes to launch and run a Magento website, we can break it down according to averages associated with how much it costs to launch, how long it takes to launch, and what the total monthly costs are. 

Of course, these figures will vary according to the scope of a store’s operations and functionality, but here are some basic figures. 

• On average, it costs about $75,000 to $170,000 to build a Shopify website, compared to $400,000 to $600,000 for a Magento store. That makes the Magento route up to 3 times more on average. 
• It takes on average 2 to 4 months to build a fully-functional Shopify Plus website, compared to 5 to 8 months for Magento. 
• And, on average, a Shopify Plus website costs $2,500 to $5,000 in monthly maintenance, compared to $10,000 to $15,000 for Magento. 

So, Magento is just more expensive (in both dollars and resources) to manage than Shopify Plus. That much is hardly up for debate. 

Here’s how to go about planning a Magento to Shopify Plus eCommerce migration. 

Planning for a Magento to Shopify Plus Migration

There is actually a way to manage your own Magento to Shopify Plus Migration. 

To do so, you will need to set up a Shopify account. You can actually start with a free trial that will let you get familiar with the platform before you choose the paid plan that works for you – though you will need to choose one before the trial is over. 

After you set up your Shopify account, the next thing you will want to make sure you do is to create a backup of your Magento store. This is perhaps the most important step of all because if something goes wrong (if anything goes wrong, really) and you haven’t made a backup, you could lose literally all of your product, customer account, and payment information, along with all of your CMS pages. 

You can back up your Magento store through the platform’s Admin sidebar – under System, Tools, and Backups. 

Once you’ve made a backup of your Magento website, you can use an app called the “Import Store” app for Shopify that enables you to migrate your data over to the new Shopify store once you’ve exported it from Magento. 

You can use Magento’s Admin sidebar to export your data, too, just like you used it to back it up. 

Under System, go to Data Transfer, then Export. Select the entity type, then export it as an XML or CSV. format.

Log into your Shopify admin page, and under your apps, select Import Store; Upload the files through Magento and then select Continue Import. 

At this point, the technical aspect of the migration should be complete. Now you need to review your data and ensure that everything survived the migration. 

Then you need to customize and configure your new Shopify store and select a subscription plan before your trial expires. 

Now for the reality check. The process I just described for a Magento to Shopify migration might sound overly simplistic. It is, and on paper, the process is really very easy, but in practice, like so many other website administration “things,” there is actually quite a lot of room for error

And that room for error increases with websites that have thousands of products, variants, and customer accounts.

So, before you take up the banner, I highly suggest you reach out to one of our Shopify Plus developers to talk to us about our migration process. We’ve handled hundreds of eCommerce migrations in the past without a blip thanks to our watertight migration process that ensures no data loss and implements 301 redirects to address changes to URLs during the process. 

You’ll thank yourself later for letting professionals handle it. 

The post Planning for a Magento to Shopify Migration: What You Need to Know appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

In response to this challenge, many retailers have moved into the eCommerce space. But rather than abandoning their physical stores, they are using a BOPIS (buy online pick up in store) model to bridge the gap between online and offline shopping.

The BOPIS Model

BOPIS is a service that allows customers to purchase products online and then pick them up at a nearby physical store. This model is becoming increasingly popular for several reasons.

One of BOPIS’ biggest advantages is the fact that it allows retailers to leverage their existing store infrastructure to offer customers a more convenient shopping experience. BOPIS allows them to save on shipping costs and offer customers the option to pick up their purchases on the same day. It also provides an opportunity for retailers to upsell and cross-sell products in-store, which can increase revenue.

The biggest benefits of the BOPIS model for customers is convenience. Consumers are always looking for ways to make their lives easier, and the ability to order online and pick up in-store provides just that.

Rather than waiting for days or even weeks for their items to arrive, customers can simply place an order online and pick it up at their local store. This is especially appealing for time-sensitive purchases, such as gifts or last-minute items.

In addition to convenience, the BOPIS model is also cost-effective for retailers. By leveraging their existing store infrastructure, they can save on shipping costs and pass those savings on to the customer. This is particularly important in today’s market, where consumers are increasingly price-sensitive.

But perhaps the biggest advantage of the BOPIS model is the opportunity it provides for retailers to increase revenue. When customers come into the store to pick up their purchases, they are exposed to other products and services that may interest them. This provides an opportunity for retailers to upsell and cross-sell, which can significantly increase revenue.

However, while the benefits of the BOPIS model are clear, it is not without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges is inventory management. In order for the model to work effectively, retailers need to ensure that the products they offer online are in stock and available for pickup in-store. This requires real-time inventory management and communication between online and offline systems.

BigCommerce BOPIS

Recently more and more eCommerce platforms have been moving to offer BOPIS options, including the BigCommerce platform. This means that BigCommerce merchants with brick and mortar locations will be able to offer their customers more options.

By leveraging their existing store infrastructure and providing a seamless shopping experience for customers, retailers can thrive in an increasingly competitive market. For retailers just branching out into the eCommerce space, BigCommerce agency services can help get their websites up and running smoothly.

These new BigCommerce tools will allow retailers to manage their inventory across locations and shopping channels. This means that customers will be able to know where items are in stock so they can arrange to pick them up in a timely manner.

When it comes to launching an eCommerce store, having a visually appealing and functional website is key to success. However, not every business owner has the time or expertise to build and maintain their online storefront.

This is where BigCommerce agencies come in, providing a range of services to help businesses create and grow their online presence. Full service agencies often create custom solutions to deal with any issues businesses might experience.

Agency Services for BigCommerce Businesses

Design and Development

One of the primary services offered by BigCommerce Agencies is web design and development. This includes creating custom website designs that align with the brand’s aesthetic and message. By working with a digital agency, businesses can ensure that their website stands out from the competition and provides a memorable user experience.

BigCommerce agencies also handle the technical aspects of website development. This includes coding the website, optimizing it for mobile devices, and ensuring that it’s fully functional and easy to navigate. By outsourcing website development, businesses can save time and focus on other aspects of their operations.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Another crucial service offered by BigCommerce agencies is search engine optimization (SEO). SEO is the practice of optimizing a website to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). This is important because the higher a website ranks, the more likely it is to receive organic traffic from search engines like Google.

Digital agencies use a variety of techniques to improve a website’s SEO. This includes optimizing on-page elements like meta titles and descriptions, creating high-quality content, and building backlinks from reputable sources. By improving a website’s SEO, businesses can increase their visibility online and attract more potential customers.

Marketing and Advertising

BigCommerce agencies also offer marketing and advertising services. This includes creating and managing pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns, social media advertising, email marketing, and more. By outsourcing these tasks to an agency, businesses can focus on other aspects of their operations while still reaching their target audience effectively.

Marketing is particularly important for businesses trying to sell products out of brick and mortar locations. By doing so, businesses can improve their conversion rates and generate more sales.

Maintenance and Support

Ongoing maintenance and support is a part of managing any eCommerce website. This includes updating software, fixing bugs, and providing technical support to customers. By outsourcing website maintenance and support, businesses can ensure that their website is always up-to-date and functioning properly.

BigCommerce agencies have a team of experts who can provide timely support when issues arise. This means that businesses don’t have to worry about hiring their own IT staff, saving them time and money in the long run.

Most agencies offer a range of services to help eCommerce businesses create and grow their online presence. From website design and development to SEO, marketing, and ongoing maintenance and support, these agencies provide the expertise and resources needed to succeed in the competitive world of eCommerce.

For businesses looking to expand their brick and mortar locations to a BOPIS model, working with a BigCommerce agency is one of the best ways to get your site up and running.

The post BigCommerce BOPIS: Making it Easier for Businesses to Move into eCommerce appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.

In this article, we’ll review the top 10 technical reasons to use Magento over other popular eCommerce platforms, as well as how the platform has evolved over the past few years. We’ll also go over the type of Magento developer you’ll need to support your Magento development customizations.

To start things off, let’s discuss Magento’s history in eCommerce. The platform was first released in 2008 and quickly became the go-to choice for many businesses looking to launch their online stores.

Since then, the platform has grown to become one of the most popular eCommerce solutions out there, especially in terms of open source eCommerce options. Today, Magento is used by some of the world’s largest retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy.

The top 10 technical reasons to use Magento over other eCommerce platforms:

1. Scalability – Magento is a highly scalable platform that can easily handle large volumes of traffic and products. This makes it a great choice for businesses that are expecting to grow quickly and scale.
2. Security – Magento is a very secure platform, making it a great choice for businesses that need to protect their customers’ sensitive data.
3. Open Source – Unlike many other eCommerce platforms, Magento is open source, meaning it can be customized and extended to meet the specific needs of each business.
4. Flexibility – Magento is a very flexible platform that can be used to create a wide variety of stores. It can be used to create an online store, a marketplace, or even a subscription-based store.
5. Customization – Magento is highly customizable, allowing businesses to create a unique look and feel for their stores.
6. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) – Magento has built-in SEO features that make it easy for businesses to optimize their stores for search engines.
7. Mobile Friendly – Magento is designed to be mobile-friendly, making it easy for customers to access and shop on their stores from any device. 
8. Payment Processing – Magento has built-in payment processing capabilities, allowing businesses to easily accept payments from customers.
9. Analytics – Magento has built-in analytics capabilities, allowing businesses to easily track and analyze their stores’ performance.
10. Customer Support – Magento 2.0 enterprise version offers excellent customer support, making it easier for eCommerce merchants to get help when they need it.

Magento Versions Over Time

In addition to these top 10 technical reasons, Magento has also evolved significantly over the past few years on other fronts. In 2015, the platform released its cloud offering, which allowed businesses to easily deploy their stores on the cloud. This made it easier for businesses to scale their stores as needed. In 2017, Magento released its PWA Studio, which made it possible for businesses to create progressive web apps for their stores. This allowed businesses to create apps that could be accessed from any device, without having to download an app from the app store.

In addition to its technical benefits, Magento is also an incredibly customizable platform. This makes it more flexible for businesses to create a unique look and feel for their stores. It also allows businesses to add new features and functionality to their stores, such as customer loyalty programs, customer reviews, and more.

It is an open-source platform that allows developers to customize and build an online store to fit the specific needs of their customers. It is a powerful and flexible platform that offers a wide range of features and functionality for businesses of all sizes.

Magento framework 

The Magento framework is written in PHP and is based on the Zend Framework. It is a highly-scalable platform that can be used for a variety of eCommerce solutions, from small businesses to large enterprises. Magento is constantly evolving and releasing new versions of its framework. Each version of Magento brings new features and functionality to make it easier for developers to customize their stores.

The Magento framework is complex and requires a Magento developer with a strong understanding of coding and software development. A developer who is familiar with Magento will have a good understanding of the Magento architecture and database structure. They will also have an understanding of the various APIs and extensions available for Magento.

There are two main versions of Magento, Magento 1 and Magento 2. Each version has its own set of features and capabilities, and it is important to understand the differences between the two. Magento 1 is the older version of the platform and has been around for many years. It is still widely used and is a choice for those who are new to Magento or need a simpler version of the platform, but make sure to note that Magento does not support this version anymore and you will need a heavy reliance on a developer to handle all bugs, system issues, and anything else that may come up. Magento 2 is the newer version of the platform and offers more features and capabilities than Magento 1. It is a more complex platform and requires a developer with a higher level of coding knowledge. It is also the latest and greatest from Magento, with advanced features, the latest security, more upgrade options and in general more future proof. We would recommend that magento 2.0 would be your go-to version of choice. And if you are still using 1.X you should consider migrating over to 2.X.

Magento Development and Support

When hiring a Magento developer, it is important to make sure that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to develop a successful eCommerce store. A Magento developer should have a strong understanding of PHP and the Zend Framework. They should also have experience working with APIs, extensions, and other back-end systems. It is also important to make sure that the developer has a good understanding of the Magento architecture and database structure.

It is also important to find a developer who is familiar with the different versions of Magento. The different versions of Magento have different features and capabilities, and it is important to make sure that the developer is familiar with the version that you are using. This will ensure that the developer can properly customize the store to fit your needs.

Magento: What about its security? 

With the growing popularity of the platform, it is important to understand the security details of Magento and its architecture.

First and foremost, Magento is built on a secure and reliable codebase. Magento is an open source platform, meaning the code is freely available to anyone who wants to use it. This means that the code can be inspected and improved upon by the Magento community, meaning it is constantly being updated and improved to ensure the security of the platform.

Additionally, Magento is built on a layered architecture, with the application layer sitting on top of the database layer. This means that the application layer is separated from the database layer, making it difficult for malicious actors to access the database layer. The application layer also features a number of security features, such as authentication and authorization, which ensure that only authorized users can access the system.

In addition to the application layer, Magento also features a number of security features at the database layer. These include encryption, data integrity checks, and secure connections. Encryption ensures that any sensitive data is kept secure and cannot be accessed by unauthorized individuals. Data integrity checks ensure that any data stored in the database is accurate and up to date, while secure connections ensure that any data sent to and from the database is encrypted.

Finally, Magento also includes a number of tools to help protect your store from malicious attacks. These include a web application firewall, which blocks malicious traffic, and a malware scanner, which scans for malicious code. Additionally, Magento also includes a security patching system, which ensures that any security vulnerabilities are quickly fixed.

Overall, Magento is a secure and reliable eCommerce platform. With its layered architecture, secure codebase, and security tools, it is the perfect choice for any business looking to establish an online presence. By understanding the security details of Magento and its architecture, you can ensure that your store is secure and protected from malicious actors.

Conclusion

Magento is one of the most popular eCommerce platforms on the market. It has many technical benefits, including scalability, security, flexibility, customization, and more. It is also highly customizable, allowing businesses to create a unique look and feel for their stores. 

How our agency can help with your Magento project

Finally, let’s discuss how 1Digital Agency has been working with Magento merchants for 10 years and can assist in any upgrades or marketing needs. 

1Digital Agency is a full-service digital agency that specializes in helping businesses get the most out of their Magento stores. We offer a wide range of services, including Magento website design, development, and maintenance, as well as SEO, PPC, and social media marketing. 1Digital Agency has worked with hundreds of Magento merchants over the past decade, and can help businesses upgrade their stores, optimize their performance, and maximize their profits.

The post Top 10 Technical Reasons to use Magento over other eCommerce Platforms appeared first on 1Digital® Agency.