Considering a big move to another eCommerce platform? First ask yourself these four questions—and make sure you’re satisfied with your own answers! Check out our infographic below and then keep scrolling for a more detailed breakdown of each question.

1. What functional requirements will your store need in 3 years?


If you’re not sure about the answer to this question, don’t sweat it. You might even consider this a trick question, because the reality is that no one knows exactly what form their store needs to take in a few years. Customer preferences and technology are changing at such a rapid rate that something you may need in a couple years might not have been invented yet!

One thing is clear, though: You have to make sure that your eCommerce platform can handle the innovations needed to stay ahead of the curve. There are a number of platforms that have lagged behind in several key performance areas, and their merchants have paid the price. If your competitive landscape is becoming increasingly perilous, it’s vital that you have the tools necessary to stay relevant.

2. How would a new platform help develop your brand?


You’ve just imagined the future; now take a look back. Over the past few years, has your brand evolved into an exciting, dynamic environment your customers are thrilled by? Or has it become stagnant and out-of-touch with your audience’s wants and needs?

Just like an eCommerce platform, your brand needs to grow and adapt to today’s requirements or it will atrophy into a shell of its former self. Having a strong technical foundation will allow you to take risks that pay off for your consumer base. After all, it’s not just what you think about the brand; it’s what they think that matters. Especially to your bottom line.

3. Will a platform change help or hinder your internal processes?


While considering the needs of your customer is extremely important, it’s also smart to consider how your staff will respond. Every change is always met with its share of fans and detractors, but weighing the pros and cons is just part of the process. Will your people overall love or loathe a new system?

Just as you’re evaluating technology, we encourage you to evaluate your people. You don’t want a “yesterday mindset” to preclude your entire company from enjoying tomorrow’s benefits. In order to truly and objectively judge a platform, an open and flexible attitude opens lots of doors.

4. How will your platform impact your company’s cash-flow?


Just as eCommerce platforms vary from each other in feature sets, they also differ in fee structures and TCO (total cost of ownership). Weighing today’s needs against tomorrow’s becomes more difficult as you realize you have to pay for both. Ultimately, you have to be a good steward of the company’s budget while not short-changing long-term opportunities.

We recommend a thorough examination of not just the platform, but also of any third-party vendors and service providers you may need to create a comprehensive solution. Not doing this results in a bland store environment that, while affordable, alienates customers through disengagement. It’s not just about investing in your company; it’s about investing directly into those who shop with you.

That will pay you back every time.

Have one or more of these questions got you thinking further about your eCommerce platform strategy? Having worked with hundreds of merchants on various platforms, EYStudios is uniquely positioned to advise you on the ins-and-outs of how a migration would affect your business.

Contact us today to help avoid pitfalls and pursue opportunities to grow your bottom line.

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