part 1 > Build the foundation of a good eCommerce web site

eCommerce web site basics

The first step in any web development project is to start with the fundamentals of a good web site, using good design practices. Think about building an eCommerce web site like building a house: you'd never put the windows in before building the foundation, or flip a light switch before running the electrical wires. Likewise for your eCommerce web site, be sure to lay the groundwork so that you have a strong base on which to build.

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The Beginnings of a Successful eCommerce site

Keep the following points in mind as you begin your eCommerce web site project:

Content. Provide your customers with enough solid, well-organized information to make an educated and immediate purchase. Spend time getting to know what your customers are looking for, and make your site a one-stop resource for answers to their questions. A good eCommerce web site sells more than a product; it sells your company, your brand and your image.

Make your eCommerce web site the best it can be by being that one site where customers can turn when they want to research, debate and then finally buy a product. Even if your prices aren't the lowest available, you'll convert more sales by showing customers that you're a credible expert in the industry. Information builds confidence, which ultimately means more sales for you.

Simple navigation. Remember to structure your eCommerce web site in a meaningful way so that visitors will be able to get around easily. Develop a sitemap ahead of time so you'll know exactly how the site will work.

One of the simplest ways to test the integrity of your eCommerce web site is to set up a "skeleton" site and do some real-life testing to see if people can navigate the site easily and locate product information quickly. Web users are not patient people - a good eCommerce web site ensures that people can find, understand and use the information you provide quickly and efficiently.

Functionality. Spend some time on the design and technical requirements of the site. Make sure graphics and photos download quickly, and decide if you really need that opening animation or if you can take your customers right to the product, which is the most important part of any eCommerce web site. Read about good web site design practices for more information on design elements that can help or hinder your eCommerce site.

With the foundation in place, you're well on your way to a good eCommerce web site and you can turn your attention to the next question: what are you selling?

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Next > Product inventory: the core of eCommerce web site development