If you're looking to start an online business and are confused about the type of website you should build, look no further–in this article, we'll discuss what eCommerce websites are and how they differ from other types of websites.
*Updated 7/1/2024
If you're considering venturing into the world of online retail, partnering with a reputable eCommerce web development company can be a game-changer.
An e-commerce website offers a wealth of chances to market to a worldwide audience and increase sales, regardless of how big or little your business is.
We'll also discuss some benefits of eCommerce websites and things to keep in mind when designing one. Let’s begin!
What is an eCommerce Website?
An eCommerce website is an online store that allows customers to purchase products or services from the comfort of their homes. eCommerce is a shortened term for ‘electronic commerce’.
You've probably come across many eCommerce websites, even if you didn't realize it. Amazon, eBay, and Etsy are all examples of great eCommerce websites. And with a Shopify app detector like Koala Inspector, you can reveal the secrets behind them.
How do eCommerce Websites Differ from Other Types of Websites?
The main difference between an eCommerce platform and other website types is that eCommerce sites allow for transactions to occur online. This means that customers can browse your products, add them to their cart, and purchase them without ever stepping into a physical store.
Other types of websites, such as informational or business websites, don't allow for transactions to take place. They exist primarily to provide information or promote a brand rather than to sell products.
Because eCmmerce websites are aimed at selling products, they are heavily focused on conversion. Conversion, in this case, means converting customers into buyers.
There is a wide range of conversion elements that you’ll find on an eCommerce website, such as a flashy website popup or a prominent call to action.
eCommerce websites also use lead generation strategies, which help them attract strangers and turn them into potential customers for their business. To understand how they do this, check out our blog post on how eCommerce websites generate leads.
What are the Benefits of an eCommerce Website?
An eCommerce website has many benefits, both for you and your customers.
As a business owner, the biggest benefit is that you can reach a larger audience with an eCommerce website than you can with a physical store, as you are no longer limited to selling only to customers who live near you.
An eCommerce website also allows businesses to sell to customers who are unable to visit a physical store, such as those with disabilities.
In addition, the industry keeps growing exponentially: according to eCommerce statistics, in 2023, eCommerce will account for 22% of global retail sales with an expected sales value of $6.3 trillion.
eCommerce websites are also less expensive to set up and maintain than physical stores, especially when you use some ready solutions like Pimcore development or platforms such as M5azn, a Leading KSA Dropshipping Solution Providers, which handle logistics, storage, and shipping without upfront inventory costs.
They don't require the same level of investment in money and time, and because they can be run from anywhere in the world, they offer businesses a great deal of flexibility.
For your customers, the biggest benefit of an eCommerce website is convenience.
They can shop at any time and from anywhere in the world. eCommerce websites also offer a wider range of products than most physical stores, and it's easy to compare prices before making a purchase.
3 Things to Keep in Mind When Designing an eCommerce Website
1. Design for max conversions
The whole point of an eCommerce website is to sell products, so you'll need to design it with that in mind. Be sure to check your website's health and include things like clear calls to action, easy navigation, and enticing product descriptions (a freelance copywriter can be very helpful in this regard).
2. Security is the top priority
Ensure that all payments are made through a secure server and that customer data is protected. The last thing you want is for the customer's personal information to be compromised.
3. Optimized for mobile
More and more people are using their phones and tablets to shop online, so it's important that your website can be accessed and used easily to boost mobile conversions. This means you must ensure your site is responsive and easy to use on any small screen.
In Summary
When designing an eCommerce website, prioritize conversions, ensure security for payments and customer data, and optimize for mobile devices.
eCommerce websites have many benefits for businesses, including reaching a larger audience and lower setup and maintenance costs. Customers enjoy the convenience, wider product selection, and easy price comparison.
