In the good old days, less than 10 years ago, eCommerce website design was an arcane science, known only to a few web designers, who for a fee, (usually steep), would provide a working eCommerce web site. Nowadays, the veil of "secrecy", so to speak, has been lifted and almost anyone with a modicum of web site design knowledge could jump into the world of eCommerce. The following are a few suggestions and references to help in that process.
Open a PayPal Account for eCommerce
PayPal has become an excellent and secure payment processing center. As a wholly owned subsidiary of eBay, PayPal offers a relatively simple path for a business owner to accept online payments and process transactions. They also provide personal support for a businessperson when needed. Within 2-3 days one can open an account, have a personal or business bank account linked and start to accept payments and sales. PayPal also will collect sales tax for sales made within a particular state.
Once the account is set up, PayPal provides the programming code that can be easily inserted into a web site for transaction processing. The funds can be either be used immediately for purchases (with a PayPal credit/debit card) or transferred back a linked bank account. In comparison with other credit card processing software, PayPal is a bit pricey, usually 1%-2% higher than conventional credit card processors, but there are many advantages: no credit check and instant access to the funds. Also, the transactions can be downloaded to the business owner for insertion into an accounting program.
Free Web Site Design Aids
Whether one decides to go it alone and design the site from scratch or use a template, there are numerous free approaches to the website design. Often those considering a web design believe that only an artistic, web site will be effective. Yet the success of Craigslist and its rather straightforward (and arguably ugly design) will put to rest that fear. Artistic and freeware web designs, however can also be found throughout the internet. Even if a prospective web entrepreneur wants to go it “alone” without an artistic template, there are numerous free web design programs that will get one started.
In today’s world, almost anything can be purchased on line, even gold, silver, platinum and silver coins. One can even insert gold and silver instant quotes onto their website! Moreover, all transactions can be secured, which opens up another world for the online businessperson.
Today’s internet world makes it almost foolproof for one trying to jump into eCommerce. Payment processing, web design and templates can all be free for anyone willing to spend a few hours to learn what he or she needs to know about eCommerce.
Nick Schklair - Nick Schklair, author, writer and business consultant has published a work on business startups in today's economy.
