Ecommerce Software Development

Ecommerce software solutions can be purchased that are pre-packaged and ready to go or that can be customized and built to specific configuration and budgetary requirements. Pre-packaged systems may be the best option for a new business owner to get up and running quickly. However, advanced ecommerce software development has made it possible for virtually anyone with a moderate amount of technical savvy and financial resources to build the right system that meets all their business needs. A well-built online store must use software that can manage all areas of customer requirements such as various payment processes, taxes, inventory tracking, customer service provisions, shipping and handling, security and much more.

Defining the need is very important in determining which solution to choose for an Internet commercial venture. An analysis of all business angles that are relevant to a particular venture will point the way to the best option. Flexibility, ease of use, expandability as well as marketing and sales variables are common considerations when choosing among ecommerce software solutions. One of the most important aspects to consider is the sales and marketing plan that is formulated to insure a successful venture. Determine the type of consumer groups to be targeted and the products or services that are to be marketed. A structured customer support and service plan as well as a strategically developed overall marketing plan must be in place. Then, all the technical aspects of ecommerce processing must be fully functional from the initial customer contact to the completion of all orders and subsequent follow ups.

The technical end of an ecommerce venture is one that can only be solved by the right software choice. Technical requirements are often the one variable that influences many Internet business owners to choose pre-packaged ecommerce solutions. Launching and maintaining an Internet store is not an easy task for most business owners. Some owners would rather be spending their time on business strategies rather than dealing with the complicated, technical end of an Internet store. Quality ecommerce software development specialists have made it possible to purchase pre-packaged systems from many web hosting companies. State of the art software systems are offered by quality hosting solutions that make it very easy for business owners to concentrate on the business end of ecommerce rather than the technical end.

Purchasing an ecommerce solution from a hosting company can relieve some business owners from the headaches of technical requirements that they may be ill prepared to handle. While many pre-packaged ecommerce software solutions include all the basics and even a few bells and whistles for more challenging ventures, in order to have fully programmable features that are specific to each business, it may be necessary to systematically build the appropriate program for a store. Extra options that are offered through customizable systems may be more to the liking of those who are technically skilled or who can afford to hire IT specialists for their business venture. Options such as search boxes, customer log-ins, coupons, gift cards, tracking components and many other features may be needed that only a personalized ecommerce software development project can provide.

A customized solution offers expansion capabilities that can accommodate a growing Internet business. Many business owners have found that they have not planned adequately for expansion and must restructure their entire Internet business for continued growth. Entrepreneurs that have an eye for the future will want to purchase expandable capabilities that have been designed by ecommerce software development specialists. Ease of use is also a major consideration for those who wish to build their own store. While some stores are easy to set up, others are very complicated with a multiplicity of features that can be complicated to learn.

Security is one of the top priorities for anyone who builds and manages an online business venture. Most consumers are becoming more and more aware of the need for maximum security for all their financial transactions. Unfortunately, hackers and identity thieves attempt to stay ahead of the curve of advanced ecommerce software development that targets criminal activities. "Whoso that is partner with a thief hateth his own soul..." (Proverbs 29:24) This makes it critical for all online businesses to embrace the highest measures of security features available. SSL, or secure socket layer, needs to be incorporated into all ecommerce software solutions that are used for online companies.

This insures that all personal and financial data from order forms, credit cards and other banking requirements is encrypted and hidden from would-be thieves. Every online business needs to operate with a digital ID that will mark any transaction from the store. Many web hosts can install SSL for a fee or an ambitious business owner can purchase a certificate for a significant price. There are many things to evaluate before choosing among the many ecommerce software solutions. Thoroughly evaluate the various software options and perhaps use a free trial for a test drive.




Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Ecommerce Web Templates

Using ecommerce web templates is a very economical way for small business to get its presence on the Internet quickly, smoothly and most importantly, with a cost that is only a fraction of the expense of an original web design. Web design from the ground up can be costly, particularly for a small business just getting off the ground. The cost of designing and building a small website with three or four pages can be as much as three or four thousand dollars, depending on the simplicity or elaborateness of the design scheme. Adding video or some kind of cool morphing action to the layout can add more cost to the project. The many paged websites for car manufacturers can cost as much as fifty thousand dollars to build.

But for a very small cost, companies have ecommerce web templates that are eye-popping, visually appealing and in some cases, out right stunning. Colors are vivid, creativity abounds in the design, and if a business doesn't mind sharing the same scheme among the billions of pages of the Internet with a few other companies or organizations that are probably very different in scope and practice, ecommerce web templates can be an excellent option. These templates can certainly send the message that a company is hip, trendy, forward thinking and on the cutting edge of its chosen field of commerce. Then upon choosing a web template, the availability of free ecommerce icons can add a very distinctive touch to a company seeking individuality. Free downloadable images such as the Master Card, Visa and Discover credit card logos can be gleaned from various free websites and can be added to the web templates to enhance a company's image and appeal.

To begin with, ecommerce means that you are selling products online. It may be tractors, purses or stereos or a mixture of all of them. How about purses in the shape of tractors or stereos especially designed for tractors? The point is ecommerce conjures up images of a catalogue online with several pages of products to sell. So if a start up business online wants to make an impression, the choice is fairly clear: build one's own website or buy one dirt cheap that has already been designed, add some free ecommerce icons and have a local web designer just tweak the site a bit. In fact, many of the companies offering already built websites can provide the needed tweaking for a reasonable price in most cases. So how about a website for under one hundred dollars, and in some cases, under fifty dollars? Exploring on the Internet, a person can find a plethora of eager vendors to sell some very beautifully designed sites.

When it comes to free ecommerce icons, there a lot of images out there! In some cases, while they are touted as being free, websites ask for a licensing fee if more than a designated amount are actually used. Most sites offering these no cost downloads do not specify if the icons can only be used for private and non commercial purposes. Here are some of the types of free download a person can get: money signs, directional signs (for directing a user to another page?), human form drawings that are kind of roundish in form, almost any object that a person might want to use from electronic equipment items to stars to check marks, balloons, all kinds of arrows, bursts and flames. There are hundreds more than these, but there is a bit of a catch to all these. No one website has a corner on the best designs, in fact many of the free ecommerce icons offered on various websites are only mediocre at best. So if a person decided to use one icon for ecommerce purposes from a number of various sites, they wouldn't match in style and design and the combination could make a website look kind of tacky.

So if a person chooses one of the many ecommerce web templates, there are some really exciting opening action pages that will capture the potential customer immediately. One is called the Flash design, which has a flurry of graphic movement with pictures and words as the site in downloaded. There is the Jooma and Mambo design which are pictures opening up like a curtain has been opened, and the Drupal which opens a pictures as a curtain would fall, and then there is the Swish, which pictures coming and going like the action of windshield wipers. But if action is not one's desire, then there are very specific designs from various designers for cosmetic sales, women's' clothing lines, men's clothing, online floral ecommerce, jewelry templates and many others that are basically ready to open for business after the personalized information is entered. The bottom line is that there are many choices for the budget conscious entrepreneur.

Everyone wants something unique on the web, yet few of us drive three wheeled vehicles or buy clothes exclusively from the tables of designer original clothes. Few of us don't have televisions and most do have silverware in the house so we don't eat with our hands. The point is that most of us don't walk to the beat of different drummers and we do share a lot of the same clothes styles and television tastes. So if our company chooses a design of the many ecommerce web templates that is already floating out there among billions of other pages, who is going to care? You have past cars of the same make and color as yours once or twice in a lifetime and the world didn't stop turning! Maybe having the same good taste as a few other business people isn't so bad after all. "Jesus cried and said, 'He that believeth on me, believeth not on me but the one who sent me.'" (John 12:44)




Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Ecommerce Shopping Solution

Ecommerce shopping solution provides a shopping cart and payment methods along with shipping choices ideal for retail and wholesale businesses. Some companies provide optimum search engine features along with secure order processing. Look for an ecommerce solution provider that stays on top of new laws and other significant changes that can provide a better way to offer online shopping to prospects and customers. It is possible to find a provider that offers web hosting in addition to shopping cart features. Consider additional options that will enhance a customer's shopping experience by doing a search online. To decide to engage in positive business practices by providing quality service and products will pay off in the long run. Consumers are smart and want to know that they are getting a good deal for their money. "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men" (Proverbs 22:29).

Additional software packages are available for purchase to enhance the shopping experience for customers. It is a good idea to think about the operation of keeping a product database that has the capability of easily adding or changing products. A good ecommerce shopping solution will provide a product catalog or database feature to accommodate necessary changes not only with products but also with pricing. When searching for the best service look for features that allow for additional shops to be created with an unlimited amount of pages and products.

Consider using an ecommerce solution provider that offers the capability of creating websites and online shopping in any language. This will help to reach a global community of shoppers and bring in more sales. Take advantage of sites that offer fast search features and flash graphics and online promotions. Having features available that help to create a more impressive website with the online shopping convenience helps a business appear more professional and will attract shoppers especially if the search for products and services is quick and easy and shoppers can access the information in their own language.

Order management is important with an ecommerce shopping solution. Some sites offer email options so whenever an order is received the business owner or designate will know immediately through an email communication. An online order management program allows one to access secure orders that are stored in a database and can be accessed at any time. A customer will also appreciate the capability of being able to track their order on a website after ordering. They will also appreciate the flexibility of having a variety of payment methods available as some customer's don't feel comfortable providing credit card information online. These customers are given the option to phone in their information or choose options to mail in payments.

Keeping track of inventory is an essential part of product management. Display options should let the customer know if products are in stock and available or if they will be back ordered. Inventory tracking through an ecommerce solution provider should include a variety of ways to track products through size, color, price, or other options. Solutions for products should include customized features based upon product display needs. Some of these would be dropdown lists, text boxes, or html description areas. Options should be available to price products based upon weight and ship products based upon weight and size.

Discounts and Promotions should provide customers with the capability of sending the shopping link to a friend. Being able to suggest like products to customers is a tool that could bring in additional sales. Offering discounts or coupons is something that will entice shoppers to buy. The ability to apply discounts on shipping for orders over a certain dollar amount or give special rates to specific customers are options that should be considered with an ecommerce shopping solution. Featuring promotional products on a home page might entice customers to look further.

Options are helpful that include an affiliate program to track resellers and maintain a network of members. Some software packages offer ease of use by taking into consideration different commission levels regarding resellers. An affiliate program allows a company to bring in extra income through allowing affiliates to advertise on their website. In addition, commissions are paid to other website owners who permit advertisements on their sites. It is a partner program that benefits both websites, helping to build website awareness and increased sales. An ecommerce solution provider may offer options regarding affiliate programs including tracking solutions within packaged services.

Reporting and tracking should be available through ecommerce solutions and include tracking sales, orders, affiliate programs, by coupons or promotions, top selling products, and by top customers. Having this feature will allow the business owner to get a clear picture of products that are selling, affiliates that are providing sales, which promotions are getting attention, and finding out who the best customers are. Knowing who the best customers are will provide some marketing research on targeted markets and give opportunities to send additional promotions to these consumers. Ask an ecommerce solution provider about ways to market through website design and how to implement a strategic plan to build consistent business.





Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Unix Website Hosting For E-Commerce

When deciding between a Linux website hosting for e-commerce provider and other types of web hosts on the market, such as Windows, it will be important to understand what options each offers and why so many commercial sites choose to use Linux. To date, Linux is known for some of its unique capabilities and its reliability. These innovative systems use a Unix website hosting for e-commerce platform. There is a great debate amongst the Internet technical gurus about which is the preferred server to use, but in the end, both have substantial merits. However, knowing what kind of power will be needed to effectively run preferred programs will help in making final decisions.

Windows is widely used, but when it comes to posting a commercial site that needs security and 99% guarantee of uptime, the Unix website hosting for e-commerce platforms are growing more popular. Linux, the most popularly used operating system within the Unix family, suffers many less frustrating or fatal viruses due to its engineering. A more complicated system, the Linux website hosting for e-commerce operating system can not be socially engineered as easily as its Windows counterpart. Emails must go through a series of executions to be accepted and incoming data is checked and rechecked. While casual computer users may find this a bit frustrating, the process will be well worth the time in protecting against a potentially file deadly virus. The protection could equate to standing in airport security lines. No one seems to mind, if security means the plane is not going to be high-jacked. Security is an important feature for businesses, especially, to consider.

Noted for it's speed and ability to be up and running at all times, the unique systems that run with Unix will appeal to commercial sites that depend upon Internet traffic. Unix website hosting for e-commerce is said to be the number one most reliable operating system available and perfect for businesses that rely upon expert server services. Administrators that tend to lean to the technical side of life prefer using these operating systems. And, the Linux website hosting for e-commerce server is an open operating system. This means that it is quite simple to transfer any files from the Linux to Windows or other operating systems. This does not always work in reverse. When using a Windows operating system on a website, the host service can be from a Linux provider.

The Linux operating system was created by a student at the University of Helsinki of Finland. Its creator was using a small Unix OS, but wanted to create another system that would extend standards. In 1994 the infamous Kernel was launched and the current full version is 2.5. As popularity grows, the Linux website hosting for e-commerce will continue to become better known because the source code is available free of charge. It was created under the GNU, General Public License. Home and office desktop usage is also increasing as more people become familiar with this system.

While many business people do not feel competent in making technical decisions about whether to choose a Unix website hosting for e-commerce, a Windows, or some other type of server, there will still need to be a basic knowledge of comparisons to make wise business decisions. Choosing a good and reliable server is important. It may be a good idea to speak with several dedicated servers asking each what type of hosting servers are in use and why. Make lists of comparisons and note the monthly fees of each. The Linux website hosting for e-commerce may cost more in monthly charges, because it is more expensive to administrate. An server is also only as good as the administration that oversees it. Customer service and support should be considered when making server choices.

When looking into long term relationships with a server and its operating system, take time and prayerfully consider that this relationship will be much like a business partnership. Businesses online are at the mercy of servers, so joining a reputable company that will be around for years to come will be a good investment. Praying for business decisions is Biblical; God's Word explains that He oversees every aspect of life. When frustrated by the world's technical markets, get perspective and go to the Word where the Lord encourages us to make Him a priority. "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt and where thieves do not break through nor steal." (Matthew 6:20-21)

Interested parties should also browse articles online and magazines that are dedicated to computers and technology for further information. Getting informed will always aid in making the best decision when choosing between a Unix website hosting for e-commerce server and other options. And, once the decision is made, there can be complete confidence in the future service offered.



Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Ecommerce Shopping Cart Software

Choosing the best option for ecommerce shopping carts can be tricky at the least and catastrophic at the most for many who are beginning their first commercial venture online. Generally, shopping carts can be incorporated into any Internet business through ecommerce shopping cart software that can be installed on a server or they can be hosted by a web hosting company that takes care of all the details. While both choices can be effective, the best choice will depend on technical skills, financial considerations and a number of other issues that must be carefully evaluated by an online business owner who wants to be highly competitive in the virtual marketplace.

Business owners that are just entering the world of online commercial competition may not want to tackle all the technical requirements that are necessary to build, host and maintain their own system. Many web hosting companies offer full service plans that cater to those who opt not to deal with the intricacies of ecommerce shopping cart software. There are several reasons that Internet business owners turn to web hosting companies for pre-packaged options. One of the main reasons many owners turn to pre-packaged systems is the freedom from technical concerns that they can enjoy. No need to learn or be concerned with complicated software systems when it comes to installation, support or maintenance problems. A quality hosting company will offer full installation of software needs, 24/7 support, and random maintenance for any difficulties that will inevitably arise.

Most owners want to spend their time building their businesses from the marketing perspective rather than spending valuable time learning programs, trying to locate problematic software glitches and dealing with hosting or server dilemmas. Pre-packaged ecommerce shopping carts hosted by professional web companies allow entrepreneurs to concentrate on the commercial aspects of building a business rather than focus on the technical issues of trying to get a web site up and running properly. Another very important issue that is addressed by web hosting companies is security concerns. While this issue must be resolved separately when using ecommerce shopping cart software, most reputable hosting companies offer SSL certificates and all other measures of security that offer privacy and risk-free shopping for customers.

Pre-packaged hosting solutions also offer ease of use and quick response for the input of product data and other information. While an ecommerce software shopping cart program may offer innumerable customization options, it can take valuable time in sorting through the best options and setting up the best configuration. Many business owners just want a good system that allows them to quickly insert information and advanced features to accommodate smart consumers. Price is another legitimate concern for online operators when considering which option to choose among ecommerce shopping carts. Competitive hosting plans have continued to drive monthly fees lower and lower, making it possible for almost anyone to purchase a pre-packaged hosting plan for a few dollars a month.

For large, Internet commercial ventures, there are excellent hosting plans available for $100 to $200 a month. The fact that everything is included makes the prices appealing to many Internet entrepreneurs. Many who have chosen to purchase and install their own ecommerce shopping cart software on a server have found that unless they are able to keep an IT specialist on board, the cost to maintain, troubleshoot, and expand can cost just as much or more as purchasing an all-in-one system from a hosting company that already specializes in all the technical aspects of ecommerce shopping carts. For many owners, it is a relief not to have to attend to or be respond for all the technical details that ecommerce can require. "The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want." (Proverbs 21:5)

Of course, there are many business owners who either have extensive IT skills or who can hire an IT specialist whenever needed to configure, upload, maintain and troubleshoot the necessary ecommerce software. For these business owners, a shopping cart software system can prove to be beneficial in several ways. One of the most advantageous options is the ability to customize shopping carts and other peripheral features. Search boxes, advanced payment features, and various product description options are found in the best software choices for e-commercial use. The customization options are almost limitless for those who have the skill, availability and budget for a state of the art commercial system that can compete with any other Internet business. There is a lot to consider when choosing between ecommerce shopping cart software and a pre-packaged system that is hosted and supported by a reputable hosting company. In today's fast past, competitive marketplace, making the right choice for ecommerce shopping carts is critical not only for a successful business but for personal peace of mind!



Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Secure Online Shopping

Secure online shopping has become increasingly popular in a relatively short time. Thousands are drawn to the ease that shopping from their own home provides, especially around the holiday season with increased traffic and stress filled crowds filling the local malls. The Internet has become a virtual haven for those who dislike the oppression of standing in long lines and dealing with possible irate employees, similar to how, "The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble" (Psalm 9:9). However, with the many advantages the Internet provides, there are disadvantages, mainly when it comes to security fraud and dishonest salespeople. Yet with a little know how and some common sense, perusing the virtual world for purchases can prove to be safe and rewarding.

There are numerous tips and points of advice available for those to read and take into consideration before proceeding to make purchases through the Internet. Shopping at home can be convenient and easy, however, there are pitfalls that should be avoided. Tips for secure online shopping are straightforward, easily implemented and should always be in the forefront of shopper's minds. First of all, the main security tip is to shop only at sites that posses and air of credibility, such as a site that is associated with a chain of a well know store, or a site that offers feedback from other shoppers. Testimonials from previous customers can be an excellent way in allowing future shoppers to see that others have benefited from a positive shopping experience.

Many dislike the idea of shopping online for the simple fact that this method provides too much ease and large quantities of money can be spent if one is not careful. Most stores and sites that offer web based shopping require users to set up a personalized account that is accessed by way of security measures, such as requiring a password in order for one to log in. This method of secure Internet shopping is widely used and usually people need only set up an account one time and then when they decide to make another purchase or series of purchases, time and effort is saved due to the fact that all one's important information is already inputted. Standard information such as a customer's name and billing address will remain on the account, along with a preciously selected method of payment. However, important credit card information will not be remembered for the sake of safety, and the user will simply input all relevant information when prompted.

When selecting a password to ensure secure online shopping a person should keep in mind that the sequence of letters, numbers, or a combination of the two should not only be unique, but sequences that are not easily guessed by a potential hacker or thief. For this reason, many choose to change a password from time to time in order for added security. Internet users must also keep in mind that they should have a different password for every account on various websites. The simple act of having a variety of passwords provides an added level of security due to the fact that if someone were to infiltrate an account the devious person could not have continued access from account to account.

Security precautions should be taken by users even when sites implement their own measures for secure internet shopping. Internet based auctions have become a very popular way of selling all sorts of merchandise, from miscellaneous trinkets of days gone by, to high end furniture, and even occasional vehicles or houses. As easy as it can be to participate in electronic auctions, participants should be selective concerning whom they choose to buy from. For this reason such sites will have options for previous buyers to leave feedback, along with that information future consumers are able to see a rating of sorts that can go a long way into proving the trustworthiness of a seller.

Smart shoppers should also be aware of faulty advertising or scams. A good rule of thumb to go by is to avoid giving out any pertinent and valuable information through a site that looks suspicious. Another tip for secure online shopping is to always make sure of a return policy. Valid sellers and worthwhile stores will cater to the customer, by means of having a relatively simple and secure method of returns if the item does not prove satisfactory. Websites and Internet based stores are simply more credible when they have a straightforward return policy. Shoppers can greatly benefit from conducting research about a company before giving out any private information. One of the main concerns when it comes to shopping online is that one will not receive an item or items that they have paid for. This can be avoided by doing preliminary research into the validity of a store.

Additional precautions include shopping at sites that are based in the United States and avoid overseas transactions, and also to be aware of the shipping schedule and have an idea of how long the item or items should take to arrive. By simply being aware of the basic procedures and shipping costs, people can avoid being taken advantage of and ultimately promote secure internet shopping. In addition, savvy shoppers should always print out the final page of a transaction especially if the page contains pertinent information such as a billing address, date of transaction and method of payment used. Such a page a can act as a receipt so if any problems do in fact ensue, the consumer has a paper copy they can use as proof of the transaction, what was purchased and how much they spent. By keeping a few simple tips in mind, secure internet shopping can yield satisfactory results.



Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Ecommerce Marketing

Ecommerce marketing is an overall business plan that attempts to connect consumers with a product or service. While the terms 'advertising' and 'marketing' can easily be viewed as one and the same, in reality, they each have different functions that are coordinated for success. Ecommerce advertising is generally that part of a business plan that promotes products and services through purchased ads in media outlets, direct mail and online sources. A business marketing strategy encompasses planning, evaluation and the execution of an entire ecommerce venture that always includes an effective advertisement component.

In order to be successful, both online and offline businesses must begin with a basic plan that sets in place a commercial goal with strategies to meet that goal. Ecommerce marketing ventures are newer on the commercial horizon than typical brick and mortar businesses that have been around for thousands of years. The virtual world does require a certain 'specialty' business education because of the technical and global implications of ecommerce, but the basics of business planning are still the same. When it's all boiled down, people need products or services anywhere in the world and no matter how they find them, whether online or offline, reaching them is the number one priority. There are several things that go into productive planning for an e-commercial venture including research, advertisements, product assessments, sales, media awareness and customer relations.

A good business plan can take many hours of research depending on the niche and desired scope of a particular product or service. "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3:6) Failures in new businesses are quite common within their first year and many early failures have been attributed to lack of complete planning for a desired outcome. While it is impossible to plan for every variable that could possibly happen to a business venture, implementing traditional planning strategies will offset the chance of failure significantly. The first thing to consider when developing a strategy is productive research that can yield demographic information, consumer interest, marketable niche requirements, and appropriate ecommerce advertising tools. Demographic information is important in targeting areas of the country or world that are more conducive to certain products or services.

Even though the 'world is a marketplace' for online businesses, certain variables are always present that make products or services more appealing to certain areas or consumer groups. Understanding a target group's interests and requirements for marketable goods or services will enhance any further commercial strategies that will include advertising. Advertising is the basic strategy of 'getting the word out' about anything that is commercially marketable. There are two general ways that any successful business implements ad strategies. Advertisements are targeted at identified potential customers as well the general public. There are many ways of reaching potential consumers with paid and non-paid ads. As part of a comprehensive ecommerce marketing agenda, ads generally consume a large part of a marketing budget with research and consumer relations following closely behind in cost.

Ad tools include newspapers, magazines, television, radio, billboards, direct mail, and online methods. Some ecommerce advertising strategies cost more than others to implement making it necessary for businesses to make every dollar count. One of the most popular and productive tools that many businesses use is direct mail opportunities. While direct mail has been around for a long time for the offline business community, it still translates well for online companies that adequately target potential consumers. Direct mail can include letters, flyers, brochures and magazines, but one of the hottest trends in direct mail today is through post cards. Using post cards to inform and engage potential customers is cheaper both in terms of postal costs as well as printing requirements.

Post cards are also effective in grabbing customer's attention if produced well. While many consumers will not spend 30 seconds reading through a multiple page mailer, they will glance at a colorful, well written post card. That one glance may be enough to pull them in to reading the card and causing them to follow up with a purchase. It is suggested to always include an eye-catching header on both sides of the post card so that a reader will inevitably see the message. Post cards are a low cost way to receive high yield returns from potential consumers. Online ecommerce advertising is of utmost importance for any Internet business in order to make a successful go of any endeavor. Tools that can be used for Internet of advertisement are email, newsletters, banners, linking techniques, articles, and a wide variety of marketing software programs. Developing a successful ad campaign is part of a complete marketing approach that best insures success for the long haul.

Understanding the important role that strategic advertisements play within any business model is key to 'getting the word out' for any business. Those that squeeze their ecommerce marketing budget in that area will find that there is not sufficient branding and consumer interest to make a success through an online venture. Since the advertisement section of a business plan is paramount to success, be prepared to make substantial designations of energy, commitment and finances to develop the best ecommerce advertising department possible. The global marketplace is rapidly growing with plenty of room for continued consumer contacts through proper marketing methods. In order to get the most out of any advertising strategy, it is critical to develop a comprehensive marketing approach to any new online business concept.



Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Free Online Merchant Account

A free online merchant account provides a relatively inexpensive way for a small internet business owner to accept credit cards from the website's customers. Otherwise, the owner will need to set up separate accounts with the major credit card companies. This can be a costly expense for a start-up venture, especially in comparison to the number of sales that are transacted when the business is just starting out. Along with major up-front expenses, the need for a secure server can be avoided by contracting with a third party credit card processor. The tradeoff is this: a so-called free account has no setup fee, but charges a higher percentage per transaction than the business owner would pay with his own account. By setting up a direct account, the business owner pays less of a transaction fee percentage per sale, but incurs a large setup fee. Most entrepreneurs and small business owners find that, especially when first starting out, the cheapest merchant account vendor is a better option than contracting directly with the major credit card companies.

Since a percentage of each transaction goes to the third party credit card processor, a free online merchant account isn't really free. But the processing company offers several services at no cost to their clients. The cheapest merchant account vendor may not be the one that charges the smallest percentage per transaction, but the one that offers the most useful additional services at no cost. The small business owner will need to consider the entire package of transactions percentages and additional services when choosing between the many third party credit card processors competing for her business. Most, if not all, of these vendors will set up a credit card processing account for no fee. But the vendor may have other limitations. Some processors cater to companies that only sell tangible goods online. This means that the accounts they serve are for online stores that sell actual products and not services. A tangible good is an item that can be touched, such as a book or a ski jacket. The store owner physically ships the purchased item to the customer. Other processors set up accounts limited to online companies that only sell software and shareware. Instead of targeting selected industries, the processing company may have different limitations; for example, the vendor may only accept accounts that charge either a minimum or a maximum price for their goods and services. The entrepreneur seeking the cheapest merchant account vendor will need to be aware of these limitations and conduct her research accordingly.

There are additional factors to consider when setting up a free online merchant account besides those already discussed. The entrepreneur needs to realize that she may only get the proceeds from her credit card sales from the third party processor once a month. The processor will send out a monthly check to its clients of the total credit card sales less the agreed-upon percentage of the transactions. The small business owner should also be aware of the processing company's policies regarding keeping funds in reserve and for loss due to fraud. The processing vendor may reserve funds to accommodate customer returns and charge-backs. (A charge-back is a customer-initiated dispute with a merchant, perhaps over the quality of an item or an unauthorized purchase on the credit card.) The fraud policies should clearly spell out the obligations and responsibilities of both the processing vendor and the business owner to avoid future problems and, perhaps, unfortunate litigation. As the psalmist writes: "It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes. . . . The LORD is my strength and song, and is become my salvation" (Psalm 118:8-9, 14).

The third party processors often will add a shopping cart feature to their accounts' online stores with what is known as plug and play integration. This integrated technology allows customers to place the items they wish to purchase in the virtual shopping cart. When the customer is ready to check out, the vendor's software application handles the transaction, behind the scenes so to speak, by processing the credit card information provided by the customer. However, one of the largest and best-known processors takes the customers from the merchant's website to its own website when the payment is transacted. After the transaction is completed, the customer is returned to the merchant's website for further browsing and, hopefully, additional shopping. Along with the plug and play shopping cart, vendors may provide payment buttons that give customers several options with just the click of a mouse. The most prominent buttons may say "Buy" or "Add to Cart." Other button choices may be "Gift Certificates" or "Subscriptions." Non-profit organizations can choose a button that says "Donate." Some processors may set up the account so that orders can be placed, not only online, but also via phone, fax, or mail. These options give customers much more flexibility in placing orders to the online store.

The free online merchant account vendors may assist clients by offering software that calculates state sales tax, when necessary, and appropriate shipping and handling charges. The entrepreneur will also want to consider the vendor's cancellation fees, guarantee programs, and technical support. Third party processors may offer affiliate programs that allow clients to promote their online stores on the processing company's website. Some processors offer gift and loyalty card programs to their clients, providing a valuable way for the clients to reward frequent customers. When all these factors are taken into consideration, the small business owner can evaluate the third party vendors on her short list and make a smart decision on whether the cheapest merchant account is the best merchant account for her company's needs.



Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Ecommerce Merchant Account Solutions

An ecommerce merchant account will allow those with retail and service businesses online to accept credit cards from Internet shoppers. More and more consumers are shopping online and now is the time for retailers to take their products and services onto the Internet, maximizing the possibilities of exposure. With the explosion of sales on the Internet, every serious retailer will want to consider the most effective way to complete financial transactions online. But, with this online explosion has come the dark side of financial dealings, and there are companies that lure e-tailers into their services, charging high interest rates for their assistance. The tricks of the trade will include finding ecommerce merchant account solutions that will offer retailers online user friendly shopping carts and credit card processing that goes directly into the retailer's checking service or bank for a reasonable fee. To find the right credit card acceptance program for individual businesses, the following offers a few tips and suggestions to be considered.

Accepting credit cards though a retail or a service website will be crucial for payment when taking sales over the Internet. Now, there are marketing agencies online that will offer a support service program to those who do not have their own payment acceptance program through their commercial website. These gateways and virtual terminals will take the information that is submitted by the consumer from the shopping cart area and conduct the financial transaction. The funds from the credit card purchase will be deposited into the website owner's banking program. With an ecommerce merchant account, funds are generally deposited within forty-eight hours or less. The payment support programs may have different costs involved with transactions and offer a variety or help programs. An alternative to using a payment support program, or ecommerce merchant account solutions, is to purchase a system that will integrate with gateways, bypassing the need for a support agency.

Statistics are showing that accepting credit cards online can increase a website's sales by as much as fifty percent! There are even companies and industries that have now moved their entire sales programs to the Internet, taking advantage of shoppers browsing online. Ecommerce merchant account will allow customers and clients to easily pay for products and services, accomplishing payments within minutes. A website could lose potential business when shoppers must stop and call or travel to a physical location at another time. Many sales decisions are made in the mind of the consumer within seconds! Having the ability to accept immediate payment will enhance sales and provide an easy purchase method for the millions who buy products through the Internet everyday.

There are tons of options when it comes to finding help with accepting a credit card payment. And, the companies that offer support are varied in customer service, pricing, and contracts. It may be helpful for those looking into adding a shopping cart payment plan to investigate some of the choices available. Red flags that might serve as a signal to ecommerce merchant account solutions seekers include expensive software rentals, companies that keep a percentage of total sales, expensive monthly fees, and expensive set up charges. Obviously, agencies using these tactics should be avoided. There are just too many good and honest companies that offer support without charging an arm and a leg. It will also be a good idea to speak with any service under consideration, asking if there are additional fees that may be undisclosed. The most competitive rates can be found by comparison shopping online.

It will be well worth the time spent in seeking a company that will operate more like a business partner than a shopping cart land-lord. Christian business people should always seek to work with those who also represent wholesome work ethics. "The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath. There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty." (Proverbs 11:23-24) High percentages and expensive monthly fees that can be charged by some ecommerce merchant account solutions specialists will only get passed down to consumers. To provide the best quality service and products, seek to work with those who have a customer's best interest in mind.

To find out more about ecommerce merchant account solutions, retailers and service providers can log on to the Internet and conduct a search for the different programs offered or shop for computer shopping cart software that has been developed to help retailers join the exciting market of online sales. There are, of course guidelines involved with being accepted by any ecommerce merchant account agency. Those with good bank account standings, a positive credit rating, and proven business record will find the best deals available. So, gather business information and history records before speaking with any agency. Being prepared will open the doors to the most customer friendly credit card merchant accounts programs online.




Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Ecommerce Hosting Companies

An ecommerce web hosting provider is absolutely essential for any person wishing to conduct any kind of business on the exponentially growing Internet. Ecommerce hosting companies provide the most important task in the Internet process, and that is giving its customers an Internet home for their websites. Building a house is one thing, but providing an actual address where the postal service and fire company and friends from out of town can find the location of that house is a whole other thing. These companies could be called website address providers because while a www address is something in a language humans can understand, computers are only designed to understand language steeped in binary code. This special code that gives websites an address that computers understand is called the IP or Internet Protocol.

In most cases, ecommerce web hosting providers can sell a domain name to a user as well as provide an IP address for the domain name. The domain name is the human language address such as www.Schoolbussesareyellow.gov. The website address providers then give this domain name a long coded language that the computer can find with relative ease in most instances. The services these companies give are essential considering that there are hundreds of millions or maybe even billions of domain requests made every day there are also IP changes made every day as well as countless domain changes and additions. All these modifications are handled by ecommerce web hosting providers.

When a user employs an ecommerce web hosting provider, they are paying for four basic actions that server can provide for the Internet user. Initially, the user types in a domain name and the service host looks for the IP address and if the server knows it the user is passed to that address immediately. If the host server does not know the IP address, the service host can ask another host if it knows the IP. During this part of the search, that particular request may occur a number of times and the user may notice a few seconds of delay before the answer arrives. If the hosting service cannot find the IP, the request can be sent to other ecommerce hosting companies, or finally it may relayed back to the user that the site cannot be found. Most all of these steps take place in nanoseconds.

Typically, when a user engages for hire an ecommerce web hosting provider, several additional services are given to the client. For example, when a user places a website on a hosting service, the host typically provides that site owner with fifty or more email addresses linked to the domain name, some providing three thousand email accounts with a highly upgraded hosting service. In addition, ecommerce hosting companies will include things like email forwarding, spam protection, SQL capabilities, access without entering "www" plus site statistics and firewall protection plus web statistics, vacation and away auto responder, SSL encryption, and putting the ever needed shopping cart site capability with the capability to handle up to twelve items per order. These services can also provide web forwarding, which means that if one site has a hit, it can be forwarded to another site. Often companies will buy a number of domain names that might be used in searches for similar products or addresses with the desired effect of landing on their home site. "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 15:58)

While a web hosting provider actually does provide a number of services for the website owner, the cost of such a service is actually quite minimal. An inexpensive plan offered by an ecommerce web hosting provider can cost fewer than thirty dollars a month which includes the email accounts and other services in the aforementioned paragraphs. Many of these ecommerce hosting companies will also build a website for a client using either pre made templates or custom designing a unique site. Of all the processes to getting on the web, the construction of a website may be the most costly, unless one is very good friends with a web designer. A number of very beautiful and fully functioning templates are able to be purchased from various vendors at very reasonable prices and visually stunning capabilities.

The importance of having someone competent to represent us in difficult situations is a great asset. If a driver causes an accident, an excellent traffic law attorney is crucial in helping to mitigate the situation and if a child is in trouble at school and faces the principal, a mom or dad being there with the student is a good thing to have. Ecommerce hosting companies represent one's business, ideas, or other important issues on the Internet so that others can see what a person has to offer; if that company does its job well, much success can follow and if the company is poor at representation, and then some very negative consequences can result. When it comes to one day standing before God, and the decision comes down to whether we have eternal life or eternal destruction, who will represent the people we love, including ourselves? Standing before the God who is perfect in every way and demanding that all men also be perfect which none of us are, who hosts us in God's presence?



Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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How To Get A Merchant Account

How to get a merchant account includes finding the right provider that has competitive rates on monthly fees, discount fees, and chargeback fees. An application for an account can be accessed with many providers online. Most providers are financial institutions or banks. However, there are some companies that work between the financial institution and the client. Important things to know when setting up a merchant account include fraud protection, the capability of accepting international transactions, fixed fees, and limits on deposits. Normally funds transfer from the merchants account to the client's within two to four business days from the transaction date. All business transactions should be done in honesty and with integrity. "Use honest scales and honest weights, an honest ephah and an honest hin. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt." (Leviticus 19:36)

Businesses online that offer a way to accept credit cards usually ask that the business owner fill out an application. Know what the needs are of the business before asking how to get merchant account. One important thing to know is if your company will need processing equipment. The bank or account holder will want to know how much the owner estimates on monthly charges and what the average amount of a charge will be. Accepting charge cards is possible at a retail store, through a website, by phone, and through the mail. Before setting up a merchant account a business owner will need to know exactly what will be needed in order to successfully process credit card information from customers. The bank will also need to know the business name, what type of products and services are sold, the state of physical location, a contact name and email address, and any extenuating circumstances that might apply such as multiple locations.

Online processing with credit cards starts with the customer shopping on a website. The customer inputs card information on a secure site and then waits for an approval from the bank who issued the card that is being used. When the payment is approved an approval code is sent back to the merchant and within seconds a customer receives that the transaction was approved. The bank then deposits the money into the merchants account within two to four business days of the transaction date. Setting up a merchant account is extremely important for a business online because most web shoppers use credit cards for payment.

When setting up an online credit card processing center for the first time a merchant needs to understand some of the important issues in how to get a merchant account. Purchasing the right software is important in taking credit card purchases. Find out what the online processing fees are going to be before making a commitment with a bank. An average quote for an online processing fee would probably start around 2% per transaction based upon the total amount charged. Purchasing a terminal might be something to consider for any customers who wish to call in their card number over the phone. Never consider leasing because doing so will probably include a long-term agreement. Signing a contract with a processor could mean staying with them for a very long time even though you may not be happy with their service and canceling early could mean paying a high termination fee.

Compare discount rates between various providers but consider that a processor that has low discount rates may have other types of fees that make up for the difference. A discount rate is what the processor charges for processing the credit card transactions and they are usually based upon a percentage of the total purchase amount. Setting up a merchant account will mean paying discount rates no matter what provider is used so they are inevitable. Some types of cards may have higher discount rates than others. This is something that should be found out when looking for a provider. Discount rates can vary based upon the client's credit score, business type, monthly volume and the average sales ticket, how long the merchant has been in business, and return policies. Other usual fees charged by providers include transaction and authorization fees. These are charged to the merchant for every transaction that takes place even on declined transactions.

A provider offering a merchant account will normally also allow the client to offer their customers an opportunity to use their debit cards or opt to have an electronic transfer straight from their bank besides taking all types of credit cards. Checking out all of the options available is the best way to find out how to get a merchant account. Many online providers provide software, processing equipment if needed, along with free shopping cart and checkout. Some have the capability to interface with accounting software so the merchant can have the information integrated into their own system. In addition, many offer safe and secure transaction processing so customers do not have to be concerned about identity theft or other security issues.

Providers may also offer electronic check services for those customers who prefer mailing in a check for online purchases or for purchases made at a retail establishment. When a customer writes a check the information is entered into the system where payment is automatically transferred from the customer's bank to the merchant's bank. The check entered electronically has to be in the customer's personal name or be from his or her business account. For more information on how to get a merchant account a person can do a search online to find out the many options available and find a reputable provider.




Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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E-Commerce Design Consultant

Ecommerce Internet solutions for business ventures can equate to a variety of services offered by hosting agencies and marketing agencies online. Most of those who have posted commercial sites on the World Wide Web now understand that a certain amount of technical savvy and unique marketing strategies are required to become a noted force online. The Internet is quickly becoming a major vehicle for trades of all magnitudes, and as the numbers of those who conduct business online grows, so does the technology advance forward. As any successful online commercial entity knows, it takes new marketing expertise to get business online, and that expertise must have a certain flair for marketing and knowledge of technology. It would seem an odd combination to the marketeer of the old school, but when marketing agencies offer a gamut of services that span from analyzing computer data to e-commerce design consultant services, wonderful things can happen.

The wonderful things that can happen, do so if the right agency is employed. The first step in launching or reintroducing a business to the Internet is to find ecommerce Internet solutions for business ventures that are new and also, not so new. And, the first step to starting the investigation process is to carefully pray about all decisions and seek the wisdom of others who have made successes online. The Bible is clear that when we stop and take the time to talk to others who have greater knowledge than ourselves, we will find the paths of wisdom. "Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." (Proverbs 9:9-10) Entering into the search with the wisdom of others will help make the entire process more smooth and efficient.

The next step is to determine what services would best benefit the type and size of a business. There are agencies that offer the most basic of services, such as web hosting and domain registration. There are also agencies that have specialized services such as e-commerce design consultant support. Research and time has proven that effective web page design is very important. Though the Web can introduce a company or product to potentially millions of people, there are thousands of companies vying for the same consumers. More shoppers; yet more competition. This is why making a positive statement is important. An e-commerce design consultant can help companies put together a web page that will be easy to explore yet offer rich and inviting content.

Online businesses have seconds to make a first impression. Site visitors can turn off offensive or uninteresting promotional materials with the click of a button, moving on to the competition quickly. It is imperative that at first site, a customer is wooed into sticking around and exploring the pages. Ecommerce Internet solutions for business can advise and help newcomers, and those who need a fresh face, develop a dynamic home web page that will entice viewers. When looking for an agency to work with, it may be a good idea to seek a service that offers a e-commerce design consultant.

Additional features to look for will depend upon how much support a company is in need of. Small businesses or individuals who are not depending primarily on Internet traffic for livelihood will find hosting services that offer basic packages that can meet minimal needs. But, those interested in making a big splash in the Internet pool will want to consider professional ecommerce Internet solutions for business features that have shopping carts, email, interactive live chat, and twenty-four-seven technical support. Security is another important feature that must be discussed with any agency hosting a web site.

Companies placing their services and goods online may also consider using one source for hosting and another source for marketing. The agencies that specialize in marketing may bring additional benefits to the table. The technical experts employed by ecommerce Internet solutions for business marketing can use methods to analyze website traffic, search engine placement, and offer over-all web site evaluations, as well as offer the important e-commerce design consultant. These professional agencies may cost more, but the investment will be worth it, when wanting to start the entire program with the best possible launch. And, ongoing changes are crucial to success on the World Wide Web, because protocol and technology are constantly evolving online.

There are many more services to consider when investigating a service that offers professional marketing services. Those seeking strategies should begin by creating a needs and desires lists for their own businesses, then look for professionals that can meet these needs. Some agencies may even offer custom evaluations, creating a package to fit the unique aspects of the business. Why not begin browsing the services online today? Looking at the features offered may give companies a good idea of where to start and what each is looking for.




Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Business To Business Ecommerce

Business to business ecommerce is a new and ever-growing part of industries today. Because of the Internet, companies can now interact and plan transactions via digital means. Ecommerce or electronic commerce allows establishments to communicate over oceans without the use of telephone or facsimile. This exchange of ideas and contacts affects companies as massive as Microsoft and as small as Jane's Online Auto Parts. Without ecommerce, much of what many establishments do would be limited. Small, local establishments whose primary profits come from ecommerce would have little chance of survival in today's franchise and corporate-dominated markets. This means of exchange allows these small companies to expand their industry trade and customer-base nearly one hundred times. Taking advantage of this growing trend is far easier than one might assume. You may already unknowingly be apart of it. No matter what companies do towards the success of their establishment, though, they should make sure that all of their practices and approaches honor God. Trust Him and put Him at the forefront of your company. "Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God." (Psalm 20:7)

The very basis of electronic commerce is a webpage. This is the primary Internet, money-making tool. Even companies that don't sell on the Internet have a webspace to post information, news and locations for purchasing their services and products. A true business to business ecommerce website, however, usually offers the opportunity to buy a product or order a service online. This is due to the fact that online purchasing, selling, and trading is so quick and simple. Consumers, even establishments, tend to make transactions in the most convenient manner. Thus, the easiest way to get involved in Internet profits is to set up a company site. This can be done in one of several ways. First, web hosting services and a domain name need to be purchased. Companies need to select a dependable or a couple of dependable companies to take care of these tasks. The Internet has many options for business to business website ecommerce services. Compare prices as well as the level of customer service to decide which companies would be satisfactory.

Having a website isn't the only part of business to business ecommerce. Anyone can have a website. The company Internet site has to have appeal and be user-friendly. It needs to reflect the level of professionalism and quality of the company. The company owner may be skilled enough in web design to create their own professional website. Many establishments, though, will outsource with a web design or corporate identity service. A corporate identity service will help develop a logo, color scheme and motto around which all of the company's marketing campaign is centered. Many owners already have an idea of what they want and just need a good website to go with it. A web designer will work with them to develop a professional, attractive website. They will advise the establishment on the best color schemes and most attractive layouts. After setting up a good design, the company can consider the content of the website. This is equally important. Companies want establishment owners to not just visit the site once, but repeatedly. Consider including information articles and helpful tips about the product or industry for business to business website ecommerce.

Consumers aren't involved in business to business ecommerce. Instead, it is about other establishments. A wholesale company owner works primarily with manufacturers or retail salers. He provides these types of companies with his product. In this case, a website is great to have. With a website, the wholesaler can reach any company just about any where in the world. However, this does him little good if these establishments don't know about his company. Another tool of business to business website ecommerce is email. Companies have to make contact with other company owners in order for them to take interest in their website and to even know that they exist. Emails are helpful and can be one part of an ecommerce marketing campaign. Ecommerce can also involve Internet ads and banners. The key is to place the ads and banners on the right websites. A wholesaler of cosmetics wouldn't want to place an ad on a consumer information page about makeup. Rather, the wholesaler would want to place a banner on a website for a national organization for cosmetics retailers.

Business to business website ecommerce can offer tools to expand industry communication and sales efforts. Those getting involved in ecommerce should talk to other establishment owners about their approaches to this trend. They may be able to offer some helpful advice and even suggest some good marketing companies to work with. Remember that electronic commerce is an investment. Companies want to invest carefully and make sure that they take the best steps.




Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Build A Website For Ecommerce

Building a website for ecommerce to offer consumers the opportunity to purchase products or services can be a profitable venture. For the individual wanting to build an ecommerce web site, there are many important steps that need to be taken. Most importantly, an individual should research information on ecommerce before jumping into it. Many search engines can offer numerous sites that will provide information on how to build a website for ecommerce. The next step to take is to determine the product or inventory that will be used to build a site. For a retail store or company, this can be done with all of the products. For a single individual, there may be a need to develop a product or decide what to sell. The final step will be actually designing and creating an ecommerce website. This step can be completed by using the information gained from the first step of the process where the research was done.

Researching competitive websites is very important for someone who wants to become involved in the Internet business. There are many different websites available that will offer information on this subject. To find this information on how to build an ecommerce web site, individuals can first search through a popular search engine. There are a variety of search engines that will offer information on ecommerce. This information will give the individual insight on products, promotion, payment, and many other essential parts of an Internet business. Researching information will offer an individual the opportunity to build a site of their own by understanding many essential elements that make one successful on the net.

Another important step to take to build a website for ecommerce is to develop a product to sell. This may be done before the research phase and may be the driving force behind someone wanting to take part in ecommerce. For someone with a retail store, they may want to expand the business by opening a store on the Internet. It may be much easier for a company with a current product line because they will not have to come up with a product or selection to offer. This can be very expensive for someone wanting to start from scratch because they will have to invest in a new product or inventory. This is also one of the riskiest phase because individuals have to make a choice on what will sell. Asking outside advice from friends, relatives, and anyone else may be helpful in understanding what to sell. Seeking help from advertising or marketing companies may also make it easier to make the decision in choosing a product or line of products to sell.

The final step in attempting to build a website for ecommerce is actually building the site. This is the step that has been building up over time, beginning with the research phase. This can also be a risky step because the promotion and marketing must be good for individual consumers to make the effort to purchase. Colors and images should be attractive and appealing to visitors. It is important to take security into account also. Providing a safe and secure way for consumers to purchase and pay for a product is also important. This may include the use of a pay program that will securely take credit card payments from consumers. Taking the time to build an ecommerce web site should also mean including a free part of th site for customers to use. Providing search tools, customer service information, contact information, and a variety of other information on the site will offer a site that is much more customer friendly. Building a website for business can be very time consuming and may take some effort, but it will be worth the work if or when it becomes a success.

There are many different steps that should be taken to build a successful web business. The research phase is the most important part. In the beginning of the process, individuals should use search engines and other Internet tools to research. After the person becomes comfortable with the material and has the right information to create a successful site, developing a product is important. When someone wants to build a website for ecommerce, they must have a product or service to offer. For retailers, this may be the inventory they currently sell in a store. After developing or determining what to sell, the time to actually build an ecommerce web site will be at hand. In this step, the information that was learned in step one will be put to use for site development. Many different things including promotion and security must be taken into account at this time. Building a successful web store is possible for individuals interested in this process. For the Christian entrepreneur interested in business, trusting in God and putting forth a great effort, can provide success in business. "Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established." (Proverbs 16:3)




Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Credit Card Payment Systems

Credit card payment systems are changing how America does business here and around the world and the rest of that world is following suit. The companies that offer the processing of credit card processing act as middlemen between merchants who sell goods and services and banks who back the credit card purchases. Until recently, checks and cash ruled the retail world, but it is now charge or plastic (evidence by the trillions of dollars Americans hold in wallet plastic debt) and debit plastic that rule the purchasing world. And these purchases are all run through charge plastic and debit card payment processing services. Merchants and businesses pay the clearing houses for each plastic transaction and in many cases, an additional monthly fee.

Even as few as twenty years ago, many small businesses did not take charge cards and certainly did not take debit plastic. If a person walked into Mom and Pop's Pure Maple Syrup Store, there certainly could be a sign above the cash register touting "No Plastic, Cash Only" as the philosophy behind the store's success. Keeping prices low by not dealing with wallet plastic fees and bounced checks would have been a source of pride. But when Uncle Jim and Aunt Sue's Better Maple Syrup Shoppe opened a mile down the road, that business started taking charge cards and debit plastic and it was off to the races because a whole new breed of customer walked into that establishment. Consequently, Jim and Sue, who weren't really an uncle or an aunt, signed up for one of the credit card payment systems offered on the Internet, and soon joined the service's debit card payment processing optional service. And in a country where charging was easy and paying out of a checking account without paper was really popular, the parking lot of was full and Mom and Pop, twenty three year old newlyweds had a lot of time wiping down the cobwebs in their very lonely store.

So Mom and Pop got busy looking into plastic processing. The two discovered that almost one hundred percent of all businesses can get the services of debit and credit card payment systems, but not all of the businesses will pay the same fees to the processing center. These particular services are very careful about offering the best rates only to low risk merchant accounts. Low risk merchant accounts include would include such businesses as retail establishments offering in-person charge card swipes(like Uncle Jim and Aunt Sue's business), restaurants, hotels and motels and home based businesses. All of these types of commerce have had long track records of not packing up and leaving overnight. They historically receive lower interest rates and lower processing fees for charge and debit transactions. So Mom and Pop had a business that could receive the same low risk merchant account and Aunt Sue and Uncle Jim.

Credit card payment systems also offer services to high risk merchants, but at much higher rates and fees. Trying to figure out who might be a high risk merchant will probably have little to do with a business owner's own credit history, or whether or not the owner has been in jail or some other factor. Instead, the credit card payments systems will look to see if a business might have an easy time of packing up and splitting during the night, somewhat like the famous football team did years ago leaving out of a large northern Ohio city literally at night for an eastern shore city. Common reputations among certain business ventures are quickly formed when trying to assign high risk and low risk status. But to make in the American market, an owner will have to bite the bullet and pay whatever fees are required because the days of cash only certainly have gone the way of black and white television.

Down came the" No Charge Cards" sign and the young couple hired a seventy five year old ex actress to stand outside and wear a "We Take All Plastic" sandwich sign, and soon Mom and Pop's trade was back with a vengeance because they opened up a pancake eatery to showcase their maple syrup. This business savvy couple learned that credit card payment systems and the twin counterpart, debit card payment processing services were critical to twenty first century commerce. There are some very helpful services that come along with these companies. These services offer charge card security checks before the transaction is completed and handle chargeback issues (refunds) for the merchant as well as disputes of payment between customer and merchant. "Heaven and earth shall pass away but my words shall not pass away." (Luke 21:33)

"Ya gotta give 'em what they want" is certainly an American business creed as evidenced by debit card payment processing. It's true for television, grocery stores, autos, sports and just about anything in American life. The United States is not exactly about sitting back and waiting for something better to come along; most of us want the something better now. The Bible teaches that wise people sit back and allow God to do with them what He wills, good or bad, because there is definitely something very good in the future that is well worth waiting for. Perhaps a more biblical view of life would bring more joy. If a business wants to make money, one must use credit card payments systems, but if a person wants real happiness, rest in life's circumstances. There is something a whole lot better coming soon.




Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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Best Ecommerce Software

The best ecommerce software should be made up of many important features. The patterns or templates provided by the software should be easy to use and offer many benefits for the consumer. Programs should also offer information on creating a site that will be functional for the consumer. The content should be easy to view and it should be simple for the visitor to find products, services, and information on the website. Information provided through the best e-commerce software must also focus on making the site fun. Appealing to the customer in an exciting manner will be an important part of creating a successful business online. Security is another important feature that should be utilized. This not only includes security for the business, but the consumers visiting the website of the business should have the utmost security when making purchases and payments.

Templates are a very important aspect of designing websites. They should be readily available in the best ecommerce software. A template gives instruction to the individual creating the website on how to place word passages to appeal to consumers. This information will help the designer create a site that is both attractive and functional for the viewers or visitors. Using guides for the creation of a website will also allow the designer to place different functions or information throughout the website. These functions, such as search tools and shopping carts, will make it easy for the visitor of the site to find products and complete purchases. Purchasing software that offers the use of templates will make the design and creation process much easier for the individual or business that is creating a site.

Functionality is a very important key when considering any type of software. This is especially true with the best ecommerce software. A functional online store or site will keep the visitors interested and coming back. The most important key to functionality is easy navigation of the site. The categories should be clearly labeled and products or services should be correctly categorized and in order. Easy navigation will also mean the use of simple words and descriptions. Individuals enjoy shopping online because of the level of comfort and simplicity that can be found. Customer service is another important feature that will be stressed with the best e-commerce software. Order tracking, history, account information, and promotions are a very crucial part of customer service. Customers need to be welcomed, accepted, catered to, and appreciated. Websites that are devoted to ecommerce should be as loyal to consumers as consumers are to products and retailers. Good search tools are also necessary in maintaining an online store of any type. Finding something quick and efficiently is very important to consumers.

A fun and exciting site is important to any business or personal website. While fun and exciting may mean different things to different people, with the best e-commerce software, this should be done in a way that will cater to the demographic group that is being reached through the products or services offered by the website. Teenagers and the elderly have very different ideas of fun and excitement, so the designer of the site has to understand who will be making the most use of the site and cater to that group of people. Colors and images should be reasonably thought out before assuming they will work well with the products and other images that will be used on the site. It is very important to strive to aesthetically please the consumers that will be visiting the site.

Security is a crucial issue for all Internet businesses. Identity theft and fraud is a very big problem that causes serious complications with financial issues. Developing an online store that sells products and goods will require the business to receive payments over the Internet to compete with other companies and sites. Credit cards make this possible, but the security on the site must be emphasized. Online pay sites offer the ability for consumers to send money. Merchants opting to use these pay sites can provide more security and identity protection for consumers.

Developing a quality online store for consumers is a vital part of creating a successful business. The best ecommerce software will aid in the development process. Many of these programs offer templates or patterns that can be used by the merchant for designing the online store they are developing. Functionality of the design will be an important area of focus for the merchant or retailer that can be learned with the best e-commerce software. The site should be easy to navigate and provide excellent customer service for consumers. Another area that will be addressed is whether or not the site is fun for the visitor. Images and colors should be used to appeal to the individuals that are the target market for the online store. Making good choices for an online business can assist the merchant in creating a secure and safe way for consumers to make purchases. Identity theft can be a major problem if not properly addressed. Wisdom and knowledge are very necessary in creating a successful online business. "And when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge" (Proverbs 21:11).



Ten years and counting | Dev release: 0.2.153.1 | What would you ask Senators McCain and Obama? | Announcing the Android 1.0 SDK, release 1 | Opening the door to geospatial data | Developer Day London videos and presentations now online | Always Be Testing Webinar on Monday

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