8 things to get right when building an online store

Unlike a physical shop, an online store is open around the clock and, set up properly, can become your most efficient sales channel. A store launched in a hurry, though, loses visitors to slow pages, untrustworthy checkouts and confusing product pages. Check these eight points before you start.

1. A platform that fits your needs

Your number of products, the variations you manage (size, colour) and the countries you plan to sell to should decide the platform. Choose for where you'll be in two years, not just today.

2. Mobile first

Most visitors arrive on a phone. Product pages, the basket and checkout must work flawlessly on mobile first.

3. Speed

Every extra second means more abandoned baskets. Compressing images, avoiding unnecessary plugins and choosing good hosting are the first steps.

4. A checkout people trust

Well-known payment providers, an SSL certificate and clear return and delivery terms make the difference for first-time buyers.

5. Professional product photos

Online shoppers can't touch the product, so the photo becomes their eyes. Combine clean white-background shots with images of the product in use.

6. Clear product descriptions

Answer the questions about size, materials, use and delivery time in the description. It helps customers and Google alike.

7. Shipping and stock integration

Tracking orders by hand breaks down as you grow. Set up shipping and stock integration from day one.

8. After launch: running the store

Going live is the start, not the finish. Campaigns, new products, ads and marketplaces all need regular management.

If you'd like your store, its management and advertising in one package, request a tailored quote.