America has always been the country to promote boot strapping and becoming a self-made success story. In fact, Corporate America is filled with these individuals who have millions and billions to boast about that stemmed from their entrepreneurial spirits and unsurpassed determination.
While many individuals dream about making millions, few try, even fewer succeed. Recently though, since the recession in 2008, people have felt the need to take control of their careers and be their own bosses. Small businesses are sprouting up everywhere, and accompanied with the trending desire to support local businesses over corporations, this new supply of small businesses and the new demand for their products and services formed a relationship that has been working out quite well.
With the growth of ecommerce, businesses all over the world are able to sell their products and services to individuals whom are miles, even countries, away.
However, many individuals have a great product or service, but they aren’t quite sure where to start or how to go about selling their products. There are a variety of different ecommerce platforms that are designed to meet different needs.
Shopify
Shopify is a popular ecommerce platform because of the simple user interface. Customizing your pages is simple, however, the checkout page is somewhat defined and not as flexible. The add-on applications are also a bonus feature, but Shopify’s monthly fee is its largest downfall. Having just filed for an IPO, Shopify is sure here to stay.
PrestaShop
PrestaShop is great because it offers both cloud and software based programs depending on the needs of the business. Both versions of their ecommerce platform are free, so users simply choose between their self-hosted or cloud hosted version. Users enjoy the ability to customize their site easily, and are able to avoid the financial barriers associated with creating an online store.
Volusion
Volusion is another popular platform. About half the price of Shopify, Volusion allows for very little customization but is relatively user friendly.
Big Commerce
The value proposition for Big Commerce is that it is compatible with Google Trusted Stores, which instantly gains the trust of consumers. In addition to their clean admin panel which is very easy to use. Big Commerce does charge a monthly fee as well.
Ecommerce platforms are a great way for entrepreneurs to get started. You don’t need to be a web developer to get your site up and running. All of these platforms offer support teams that are able to help if you have questions or concerns. Business costs can add up, but you can be smart about which ones you actually have to pay for. In the beginning, it is important to keep as much money in the business as possible. Ecommerce platforms help you bring money in as opposed to wasting your time- and that is a valuable benefit.
As a new ecommerce business, the best thing you can do is compare all of these platforms. They are all designed to excel at different things. You need to find the platform that works best for your business. Entrepreneurs have the tools available to be successful. IF you have the drive and personal ambition, you’re already on your way to success- the tools available just make it happen quicker.