Create an Online Shop
The continuous development of the Internet also brought us the ease of getting or doing a large variety of things such as information sharing, communication or trade which otherwise would not have been possible. Use of Internet for buying a product or service is becoming increasingly popular. Among the numerous advantages that Internet had given us, an online store or a virtual shop is one of the most popular phenomenons that many have become addicted to.
Opening an Online store is suitable for a person who is having a well defined product or service to offer without the intervention of human in the sales process. A prospective online shop owner needs to have a computer, a website with hosting facilities and with internet connection with preventive measures for unauthorized access
Planning:
A basic online shop does not require significant investment, however a tailor made fully automatic website designed to meet the precise requirement may need a considerable sum of money. A strategic calculation to balance in between is advisable.
Design the website:
The website should neither be disappointing to the customer nor should it be overwhelmed by traffic without being entertained for their requirements. It should be easy to navigate and emphasis should be given on providing photographs of all the products in their best light. No outdated or incorrect information should have any place in the site and a site map should be there to enable the user find their desirable.
Create a mail order form:
An electronic mail order form would enable the customer to insert their detail as their names, addresses, contact no(s) etc. along with the requirement of the products. This form will also give them the exact amount of money for the transaction.
Getting started with an online shop is not a big deal but there might be few other issues that are to be taken care to run the show effectively.
Deliver the orders: The mode and lead time for the delivery should be pre decided and there should not be much variance
Pre sale commitments: An adherence to the delivery schedule, a 100% money back guarantee for products in case of non satisfaction, and a cooling off period are few of the measures that customers look for, before buying a service online.
Post sale customer care: Like all other form of business, post sale customer care and satisfactory resolution of customer problems would bring more business and hence of utmost necessity
Collecting payments: Arrangement should be made to accept online payments with various Credit and debit card companies and also to maintain security in terms of internet transactions
Comply with the laws: An exposure to the internet also brings a lot of exposure to the fraudulent activities. The previous experience in this domain forced the Govt to formulate few laws to abide by for all involved in online business.
The data protection act 1998
The consumer protection (Distance selling ) Regulation 2000
The electronics commerce regulations 2000
In a nutshell, operations of an online store are hassle free, fast and without any paper work. One can easily see this as a future for all types of business transactions.
