E-Commerce Solutions are part of Website creation services, but because it's important role in Web development, we decided to dedicate this page to point out some issues related to that matter.

    Setting up an ECommerce store is not a simple task. There are so many choices on the market offering software and services. There are several steps to go through in the process:- Applying for a merchant bank account - Choosing Web hosting that is compatible with major E-Commerce providers - Obtaining a digital certificate (Secure Socket Layer or secure Electronic Transactions) to protect transferred data - Finding a provider of on-line transactions - Developing or purchasing shopping cart software - Deciding on the method of payment. More options for payment and a greater selection of ways to order allowed on your Website will result in an increased number of orders. Therefore, options other than credit card transactions should be made available and mentioned on your Web site. For instance, a customer may prefer to place their order and communicate payment information via phone or fax.

    When considering launching a new store on the Internet or extending existing services to the Internet, it is important to keep in mind that not only do you need an E-Commerce Solution but you also need an entire ECommerce Strategy. The work does not end with the publishing of your shopping Website. You will want other sites to provide links to your site, to advertise on high traffic Web pages, to develop associate programs or study your competitors' Websites to find your competitive advantage and what you need to do to make sure you're always one step ahead of them. In order to be a successful on-line retailer you must combine your Internet strategy with traditional methods of advertisement. Another very important task to accomplish is to establish credibility. Here are a few ways to help you with that: - Register with Verisign® and TRUSTe - Include your full address (not just a P.O. Box) - Contact information or testimonials from your clients.