How to start your own digital commerce?

So, you've decided it's time to migrate your business to a digital platform or start from zero your own eCommerce, but you don't know 100% how to be successful in this new endeavor. Well, don't worry; you're not alone. 

 

Transitioning to the digital realm can be challenging for all kinds of reasons like lack of familiarity with online tools and platforms, support of a fulfillment center mexico, and difficulty adapting to rapidly changing technology trends. However, with the right guidance and strategies, you can significantly increase your chances of success. 

 

At Búho Logistics, our priority is the growth of your company. That's why we have taken it upon ourselves to create a guide where we explain step by step how to develop your own digital space and start to maximize your online presence and sales from day 1. 

1.- Search for business opportunities 

It's necessary to identify a business opportunity to differentiate from the competition. You must focus on at least two elements: excellent customer service and the sale of quality products and services that meet the needs and preferences of its target market.

 

Now, it's not about seeking something that nobody has ever sold, although it's possible. Whether it's through the sale of a new product, rebranding, product customization, better packing, or even the improvement of existing products or services, identify the factors that make your business unique and cost-effective. That's an opportunity. 

 

The latter, paired with the change from a physical store to an online one, may be the step your company needs to expand its reach and tap into new markets.

2.- Choose your eCommerce business model

When you know the kind of product or services you're gonna provide, it's easier to identify the type of eCommerce business model that aligns best with your goals and target market. Some of the most common ones are: 

 

• Business-to-customer (B2C): Businesses selling products like clothing, books, cosmetics, and more, directly to individual consumers.

 

• Business-to-business (B2B):Businesses selling products or services to other businesses, such as wholesale suppliers and mexican fulfillment solutions providers. 

 

• Customer-to-customer (C2C): Individuals, usually in charge of small businesses, selling products or services to other individuals in marketplaces like Etsy and Craigslist.

• Customer-to-business (C2B): Freelancers, for example, are a common application of this model.

 

• Direct-to-Consumer (D2C): Selling products directly from the manufacturer to the end consumer without intermediaries B2C. 

3.- Write and present a comprehensive business plan 

Even if you already have a physical store and are only migrating your operations to eCommerce, starting a business online can be expensive. 

 

That is why it's important that you and your team write a business plan that outlines your objectives, target market, marketing strategies, budget, inventory management, etc., so, if it's necessary, you can seek the assistance of potential investors, allies and programs for start-ups in the digital world.

4.- Build a brand identity

 

If there are a million ecommerce sites, yours must stand out. Invest the time and focus on the branding of your business to facilitate the design of your website and social media. Take advantage of the tools that online platforms offer you to showcase the kind of visuals and media content that in a physical and traditional business format would not be possible.

 

It can also create a unique and long-term relationship with your target audience. This connection will set you apart and foster customer loyalty in a competitive market.

5.- Register your business

Registering your business ensures you comply with local, state, and federal laws and regulations. It legitimizes your business operations and protects you from potential legal issues. The details and requirements may change from country to country, so don't hesitate to seek professional advice to ensure you fulfill all necessary obligations. 

6.- Select your eCommerce website

With your paperwork in order you can now take the next step and build your website. But first you need to select the correct platforms. Everything depends on your needs and goals, which will determine the type of website you select. Whatever the case may be, make sure that it´s user-friendly. 

 

That means a website with a logical and easy-to-understand navigation structure. For example: clear menus, fast loading speed, description of the services and product in an accessible format, FAQ's, spam-free experience, various forms of payment and a series of contact numbers for consultation, to name a few. 

 

Take, for example, Shopify, one of the most popular eCommerce platforms that offers all kinds of customization options that guarantee a seamless and efficient user experience. Its intuitive interface allows you to create an online store that meets the needs of your business and your customers.

 

But if you are not only starting digital commerce but a business in general, our advice is to develop your eCommerce in a free builder or choose a makerplace instead. That doesn't mean sacrificing professionalism over convenience. In fact, many marketplaces provide a ready-made audience saving you time and resources in building your own. 

7.- Source your inventory 

Having a website without a proper inventory and strategies to control the overstock or lack of products can lead to various challenges. To mitigate these risks, it's essential to implement strict inventory management practices way before the website launch. 

 

So whether you're the primary creator or service provider for your ecommerce or rely on an external provider, always have the right number of items on hand to avoid any unforeseen circumstances.

8.- Manage the order fulfillment 

Ensuring that you're meeting your customer's selling demands with the right amount of stock is one thing; packing, warehousing the inventory to prevent damage, shipping and more is another and entirely different task that can be very time-consuming if your business doesn't have the adequate team and facilities. 

 

But with the proper order fulfillment provider, you can overcome this and streamline your operations. A reliable fulfillment partner can handle the entire process, from receiving and storing inventory to picking, packing, and shipping orders to customers. This frees up your time and resources, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business, such as marketing, customer service, and growth strategies.

9.- Develop marketing strategies

Before, during, and after the launch of your website, it´s necessary for your team to maintain a regular update of content on social media, SEO strategies, and even collaborations with influencers and other trending personalities. 

 

This will benefit your business in several ways like increasing your online visibility, making it easier for potential customers to find your website, driving organic traffic to your eCommerce, bootsing your authority domain, and better understanding of the algorithm, etc.  

10.- Launch your business   

All the previous steps have served to pave the way for your business towards a successful website launch. Now, armed with a well-designed website, optimized content, and strategic marketing initiatives, your business is poised to make a memorable entrance. 

 

It's definitely a time for celebration, but that doesn't mean that you can put your responsibilities aside. In fact, now more than ever, it's crucial to maintain an optimal channel of communication between your team, providers, and consumers. This includes monitoring website performance, analyzing customer feedback, refining marketing strategies, and staying responsive to market trends. 

 

By remaining proactive and committed, you can build upon the success of your website launch and propel your business to even greater heights. If you know more about similar topics, take a quick look at our blog. We have the content you need to improve your eCommerce.