subject: 10 Reasons to Choose a Hosted eCommerce Solution [print this page] 10 Reasons to Choose a Hosted eCommerce Solution
As an online merchant, you need to decide on your eCommerce software. You may choose licensed eCommerce software where you download software and install it on your server. Another choice is custom built software where you either write your software or pay someone to do it for you. Your final choice is a hosted eCommerce solution where a third party hosts your online store. Here are 10 reasons to choose a hosted eCommerce solution:
Security - Most hosted eCommerce solutions are PCI compliant, meaning that their data center has passed stringent requirements relating to protecting your customers sensitive information.If you utilize open source software, you will not be PCI compliant.
Support - With open source shopping cart software, there is typically zero support and you are on your own if the software crashes or you have to pay a premium to have the support.
Costs - With most hosted solutions, you can get started with less than $100. When using open source solutions such as Zen Cart or OS Commerce, you have to pay get everything setup on your own server.
Packaged Deal - Hosted eCommerce solutions include hosting the website and a wide variety of management and store building options like a shopping cart and product catalogs. Most companies will also offer support, in-depth analytics, shared SSL certificates, CRM software, and marketing tools.
Time - Saving time is a major consideration for most online store owners. With pre-designed templates and design tools, you can typically get setup a lot quicker versus utilizing open source software.
Knowledge - How much programming and design experience you have will be a determining factor in your decision. A hosted eCommerce solution platform typically has built in functionality so that you don't need to know how html or how to program.
Management Tools - Hosted eCommerce solutions come with a variety of management tools that allow you to easily input or export your information.
Maintenance - You will no longer have to worry about server maintenance, hosting maintenance, or bandwidth issues. The hosting company will fix bugs and take care of all the maintenance and updates. This will not only save time but reduce your stress.
3rd Party Integration - Hosted solutions typically provide 3rd party support for accounting, shopping engines, payment gateways, fulfillment and taxes.
Flexible and Easy - Although there are fewer options to customize than with other choices, there is a lot of flexibility with a hosted eCommerce solution. Also, the store owner can access the back end of their store from anywhere they can get online.
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