In the last few decades, the world of e-commerce has rapidly expanded. With the internet came the power to purchase items we wanted or needed online, whenever it suited us. Every type of industry has utilized this business model in nearly every corner of the world.
More and more people are starting their own e-commerce websites. When it comes to creating a successful online store, there is no guaranteed recipe for success. But certain design elements will help you build a stronger business.
This article will discuss some of these elements, so you know how best to implement them.
1- Comprehensive Product Descriptions
When people are shopping online, they rely heavily on product descriptions. Without the ability to examine an object in-person, a customer must find other ways of gathering the information they need.
Although you may have impressive pictures to accompany a product, don’t neglect the descriptions. Some good examples of specifications to include:
- Weight
- Dimensions
- Color
- Fabrics used
- Other details that are relevant to that particular item
2- A Focus on User Experience
A major focus for any website should be the user experience or UX. This is especially true for online businesses. Poor UX may drive customers away from your website and hurt your sales. Make sure your website looks good and is easy to navigate.
The other aspect of UX to remember is the mobile user. A large percentage of your customers will consist of mobile users. When you design your site, make sure that your mobile experience aligns with your goals.
3- Bestselling Items Feature
When you visit an in-person store, especially retail, you may notice that those stores feature their best-selling items, or sale items, towards the front of the store. This is a common marketing strategy that can also be applied to e-commerce. Feature your bestselling products proudly on the front page of your website.
4- Simple Checkout
If you want people to buy your products, it’s important that you have a simple checkout process. Some ways to make your checkout process usable and attractive to customers include:
- Clear shipping details that customers can see based on their region
- Option to edit cart, clear cart, and add items from anywhere on the site
- Featured reminders of security, such as logos, to build trust
- An easy way for users to contact support if needed
- An option for users to check out as a guest
5- High Quality Product Photos
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, which gives you an idea of just how important your product photos are for your website. You should invest in high-quality product photos for every item.
The better they are, the more details your customers can take away and the more professional you seem to them.
6- Detailed Return Policy
Make sure to publish a detailed return policy for your customers. This is something that customers should be able to view before they buy and something they can consult after they buy as well. Publishing a clear and concise return policy will help prevent customer grievances and confusion.
7- Avenue for Feedback
On your site, have a section where customers can leave their feedback and reviews. This will help you improve your business and incorporate the ideas of others. Customers want to feel like they are being listened to, even within an online platform.
Conclusion
When you incorporate these elements into your e-commerce site, it will allow you and your customers to get the most out of the experience. Don’t be afraid to push the creative boundaries to make the site your own.
