Selling online and digitising internal processes are more closely linked than they first appear. This category collects articles on getting started in e-commerce — choosing the assortment, payment and shipping methods, mandatory information in the ordering process, product data and its upkeep — and on the processes behind it: connecting merchandise management or accounting, appointment scheduling, digital forms instead of paper, collaboration through shared storage. We show which steps can be implemented gradually and which preparatory work pays off before a shop goes live. Written for businesses that want to judge the effort realistically instead of changing everything at once. We additionally look at the tasks that recur after launch — from maintaining product data to processing returns.
Around 78 percent want to book appointments online (forsa). How local businesses win more appointments with a booking system on their own website and relieve the phone.
Online shop for local retailers: when the move online pays off, which models exist and what to watch for regarding effort, shipping and advice.
Click and collect for local retailers: reserve online, collect in the store. Benefits, technical implementation and what customers value about the pickup model.