How to Select the Right Technology and Supplier

The right blend of services, individuals and approach is what makes an e-commerce project successful. Selecting the right supplier to build an online store is a vital part of this process. We point out some important issues you need to consider during this process.

Use a consultant: Strategic thinking is the base on which successful e-commerce sites are founded. It is a good idea to partner with an experienced consultant before selecting a particular supplier. An experienced consultant can set the project criteria on which the supplier’s deliverable and the Web site can be measured. A consultant's input adds value to the proposed solution.

Specification documents: All e-commerce projects require technical and functional specification documents. These have to be created and agreed upon before any development or designing efforts. The features and functionalities to be implemented within the site are provided in detail in these documents. They act as a blueprint for the whole project. With this type of documentation in place, it is easier to resolve any queries that may arise during the course of the project.

E-marketing: Check whether the e-commerce supplier provides e-marketing as a core service. A large portion of the budget is going to be used for marketing your e-commerce site, and it is essential for you to ensure that the supplier understands this. The marketing and search-engine optimisation aspect has to be built right into the structure of the site.

Supplier appraisal: The efficiency of a supplier can be measured based on the success of past clients and the quality of its portfolio. The factors that are clear indicators of the vendor’s capabilities are overall appeal and clarity of the Web site, inline delivery of the project, diverse market sectors serviced and objectives achieved.

Underlying technology: Ensure that your e-commerce site is driven by a solid business model and not by limitations in technology that have been imposed by the supplier.

Support: Support options and costs should be taken into consideration before a project commences. Verify that the e-commerce supplier is able to handle technical issues and provide the correct application and hosting service level.