Today, with internet access widely available and with the development of websites that work across devices, user confidence in making online transactions has allowed e-commerce to grow exponentially and, along with it, the revenues of companies exploiting the technology.
But what is the e-commerce? Put simply, it is selling and buying online. It consists of the distribution, sale, purchase, marketing and supply of goods and / or services over the Internet.
In a recent study of AMIPCI (Mexican Internet Association), three-quarters of Mexican internet users shop online. Two thirds of buyers use a mobile device (smartphone and / or tablet) for shopping online, and one-third use a desktop or laptop.
So, what are the benefits of electronic commerce? Some of the major advantages are:
- Low Cost: with an internet store vs brick and mortar, operating costs and logistics are decreased markedly.
- 24/7 operation: website e-commerce isn’t a Monday to Friday, 9 to 5 business. It's open for business 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
- Practicality: Prospective customers have access to the website from any device with internet connection, which makes shopping easy and convenient.
Mijo! Brands, has some elements that you won’t want to miss on your e-commerce website for it to be successful.
Useful information
It is essential that you include on your website important company information to build trust and confidence in consumers, including the following information:
- Description of your company
- Contact information
- Frequently asked questions
- Privacy policies
- Shipping provider (if marketing physical products)
Product List
This is the element that makes up the raison d'etre of your online store: the list of products or services offered by your company. For all of your products you must include attractive images, a full description, price and a clear call to action to encourage the purchase.
Shopping Cart
This is the page used to process the purchase. It must be easy to use, allow the transaction or purchase to happen in the fewest possible clicks and make it easy to add additional items into the shopping cart during the same shopping session in order to retain customers on the site.
Avoid things that distract the user from completing the transaction like menus, banners or unnecessary buttons. Finally, clearly inform the user about extra charges they might incur such as taxes, shipping costs, etc.
Payment Methods
It is important to highlight the means of payment available on your website. Keep in mind that you will receive visits from various places and people so it is important to offer different payment methods to minimize users abandoning the buying process and to maximize sales. For example, the most common means of payment are:
- Credit cards (Visa, Master Card, American Express)
- Bank transfers
- Cash payments in payment centers or supermarkets
- Integrated systems (Paypal)
Promotions and Discounts
In an online store it is essential to have promotions and discounts for your buyers to generate attention and achieve repeat purchases. Be creative! Combine different products of your line, create strategic alliances with other brands that offer complementary products or services and reward your frequent buyers.
Search Function
If your inventory is large and varied, it is essential to have a search engine to help users find exactly what they are looking for. The search results should include related or complementary products that enhance the shopping experience for your users.
Now that you know the benefits and essential elements of an e-commerce website and want to venture into the world of electronic commerce, contact Mijo! Brands, where we have the experience to take your internet products and services to the next level and contribute to the steady growth of your company.
Angel Estrada is Senior Web Interface Developer at Mijo! Brands, a leading digital agency with offices in CDMX and Puerto Vallarta. Contact us for more information.