What to Consider When Choosing A Shopping Cart

[mandy]

Every Web shop owner knows that their shopping cart is an integral part of their business, and therefore, having one that fits your particular needs is paramount to a successful operation. With that in mind, together with Shannon McMurtrey, president of Cart32, we've compiled a checklist of important issues to consider, whether you're thinking of switching carts or just getting ready to sell online.

How Will the Cart Operate?
Check to see whether you will be limited to a certain number of products. "You have to pay attention to the ability to grow, because if you're business changes and you need database integration or want to add categories, you don't want your cost structure tied to it. That's one of those 'gotcha' hidden costs that can sneak up on you," says McMurtrey. "Plus, once you're up and running, you don't want to have to revisit your set-up."

You also want to think of inventory tracking, and if the cart will integrate with any third-party applications you may have, or be adequate on its own, and be sure no manual processing is required...

How Does the Cart Handle Shipping?...
Can the Cart Report the Numbers?...
What if You Need Help?...
Three Basic Tips: Simplicity, Trust and Follow-Through...

full article: http://www.ecommerce-guide.com/essential...hp/3652916