How SMBs Can Benefit From Ecommerce

Is eCommerce a ring of big money giants? Or is there space and prospect for small and mid-size businesses too? To answer this question, one only needs to look at the companies who have seen a surge in sales after they set up their online business. More than half the list is filled by SMBs. In this article, we look where next-general ecommerce is heading and also how web hosting can greatly reduce your IT support costs.

So, here are the important points:
 

360° product views 

 

Physical separation between shoppers and products is one drawback found in ecommerce. Books and DVDs – products where physical touch doesn't play a role – have traditionally sold well on ecommerce channels. Apparels on the other hand, haven’t sold as well as expected.

Next-generation eCommerce sites are expected to go more in the direction of bringing products in user-controlled 360° views. This way, shoppers gain a better idea of the product's appearance, similar to the instore buyer holding up and turning the product for closer examination.
 

Layered informational mini-screens

Today, online shoppers commonly click through many full screens to get a better knowledge of the product. Next-generation eCommerce sites will offer mini-screens overlaid on the initial product screen, allowing shoppers to zoom in and out of relevant product details and, in the process, not lose connection with the product under evaluation.
 

Upfront alerts on product availability 

A strong benefit of eCommerce is the capability to present the full range of products and product features. In next-generation eCommerce sites, product availability status can be offered to the shopper throughout the shopping and selection process. By presenting product alternatives when there are availability delays - which can be built as an option into the site design allows shoppers to balance their desire for product immediacy and selection range.
 

Streaming video 

Brick and mortar stores are naturally restrained in the contextual presentation of their products, with actual product benefits limited to a shopper's understanding of the product and imagination, and perhaps the creativity of in-store displays and external advertising. 

 

In next-generation eCommerce sites, streaming video would propel contextual presentation to an entirely new level, with streaming video mini-clips that spotlight beneficial product features in multiple real-world contexts. Not only will streaming video stimulate a shopper's imagination and strengthen intent to purchase, it can also be effective in cross-selling other products and optional features, which provide a valuable means to increasing sale size and revenue growth.