Building an E-Shop: Hosted Solutions
If you’ve decided to use a hosted solution for your e-shop, platforms like Shopify and Bigcommerce are among the most popular choices. However, there are several other hosted solutions worth considering. This article explores various hosted shopping cart options, their features, and benefits to help you find the right fit for your business.
Shopify
Shopify is one of the leading hosted shopping cart solutions, known for its ease of use and comprehensive features. It caters to a wide array of retailers, from small businesses to large enterprises, with notable clients such as Gatorade and Amnesty International.
Benefits:
- 14-Day Free Trial: Test the platform risk-free to see if it meets your needs;
- Customizable Templates: Offers a variety of templates with full HTML and CSS customization options;
- Flexible Payment Plans: Four different monthly plans, each with transaction fees ranging from 0-2%;
- 24/7 Support: Live chat, a dedicated Guru program for personalized coaching, and technical assistance;
- Built-in CMS and Payment Options: Easy web page creation, integration with over 50 payment gateways, and support for major credit cards and PayPal;
- Robust Security: Features 128-bit SSL encryption and is Level 1 PCI compliant;
- API and App Store: Developers can create custom applications, with over 150 apps available;
- Mobile Commerce: Manage your store via an iOS app with mobile-friendly features;
- Analytics: Track customer behavior and store performance, with full Google Analytics integration;
- SEO & Marketing: Built-in SEO tools, advertising credits for Google and Facebook, and a coupon engine.
- Automatic Backups & Updates: Regular backups and free software updates ensure data safety.
Cons:
- Monthly fees can add up;
- Less control over your e-shop;
- Risk of losing access if Shopify closes down.
Bigcommerce
Bigcommerce is Shopify’s primary competitor, offering a user-friendly interface and robust features that streamline the e-commerce experience.
Benefits:
- 15-Day Free Trial: Fully functional platform trial with no payment obligation;
- Extensive Support Options: Knowledge base, video tutorials, community forums, and ticket support, though not 24/7;
- No Transaction Fees: Users retain all profits regardless of sales volume;
- High Security Standards: Level 1 PCI compliance; users must purchase their own SSL certificate;
- Integrations and Apps: Wide range of free and paid apps, with full Google Analytics integration;
- Mobile-Friendly: Fully functioning mobile stores and a dedicated iOS app for management;
- Out-of-the-Box Solutions: Hundreds of themes and storefront HTML/CSS access;
- Excellent SEO Features: Automatic sitemap generation and Google Shopping integration;
- Marketing Tools: $100 credit for Google AdWords and easy integration with multiple sales channels.
Cons:
- Users need to acquire their own SSL certificate for security.
Other Hosted Solutions
While Shopify and Bigcommerce are frontrunners, several other hosted solutions can meet your e-commerce needs:
- PinnacleCart: Offers mobile commerce storefronts, Facebook integration, and no transaction fees, along with a 14-day free trial;
- Yahoo! Merchant Solution: Provides excellent organic traffic potential but includes a 1.5% transaction fee and requires paid design services;
- Volusion: Features 24/7 support, mobile optimization, and a one-page checkout to reduce cart abandonment, with no transaction fees but a need for a purchased SSL certificate;
- Ultracart: A powerful platform with consistent features across pricing plans, no transaction fees, and a 30-day free trial;
- 3dcart: Similar to the previously mentioned platforms, providing a robust set of features for e-commerce.
Other notable options include:
- AmeriCommerce;
- Big Cartel (ideal for artists);
- GoEmerchant;
- Ecwid (allows e-commerce on existing webpages);
- Magento Go (hosted version of Magento with limited functionality).
Conclusion
When choosing a hosted shopping cart solution, the options available cater to various business needs and technical expertise. Shopify and Bigcommerce stand out for their comprehensive features, but alternatives like PinnacleCart and Volusion offer unique benefits that may better suit specific requirements. Testing different platforms is the best way to determine which solution aligns with your business goals and technical skills. If you have experiences with other solutions, feel free to share and expand the discussion on the best platforms available.
