Before I chose Shopify, I thoroughly tested many other platforms. For me, Shopify had everything I was looking for, and MORE. I have a successful vintage Shopify store, and have also helped others get started on Shopify.
So, why should you choose Shopify? Here are some key things to consider…
Ecommerce Platforms
In today’s market, there are basically two main types of platforms for ecommerce business owners:
- Fully-hosted ecommerce platforms (such as Shopify, BigCommerce, Volusion, Wix, Big Cartel, Squarespace, and Etsy)
- Open source ecommerce platforms (such as WooCommerce, WP eCommerce, OpenCart, Drupal Commerce, Magento Open Source, and PrestaShop – to name a few)
Shopify is a fully-hosted ecommerce platform. Because of this, Shopify is easier to build with. This gives you the opportunity to start selling quicker. Shopify is also an all-in-one commerce solution where you receive native hosting, shopping cart functionality, and sales channel integrations with no additional fees. This saves you significant time and financial investment that would otherwise exist with open source platforms.
As a hosted platform, Shopify offers several advantages for optimization compared to open source options. For example, easy access to extensions through robust third-party apps and integrations. Shopify is an ever-evolving product that is continuously pushing new improvements to ensure all sites are built with industry-leading best practices.
Also as a hosted platform, Shopify simplifies store maintenance so you can focus on what really matters – running and growing your online business. You have access to 24/7 technical support and ongoing platform maintenance to reduce downtime, and keep your business running smoothly. Shopify also takes care of the SSL certification, security patches, and more, to ensure you can rest easy knowing your business and customers are secure.
Why Shopify?
With other fully-hosted ecommerce platforms available, why Shopify?
Shopify is dedicated to streamlining the ecommerce experience for both merchants and their customers, by offering an easy-to-use platform that is always evolving to stay at the forefront of this ever-changing industry.
Here are the key benefits and core features you can expect from Shopify.
- Your Brand – With full storefront customization, no product limits, powerful analytics and much more, Shopify allows your business to grow.
- Store Management Made Easy – You have access to a 24/7 support network, in-depth documentation for managing your store, online forums, and educational content from the Shopify Ecommerce University.
- Sell Anywhere – Shopify offers more sales channels, payment gateways, and integration products than any other ecommece provider, allowing you to sell anywhere your customers are now, or will be in the future. From Amazon, Pinterest, Facebook, Messenger and Shopify POS, there is a sales channel that will work for you.
- Your Business is Safe – Shopify incorporates industry-leading security features into every product, like 256-bit SSL certificates, Level-1 PCI compliance, and 99.9% uptime with 24/7 monitoring – allowing you to breath easy knowing your business, and customers, are always protected.
- Enhanced Customization with Apps – Shopify has more than 1,500 apps that allow you to build your business the way you want it to perform. These apps add additional functionality to your storefront (such as product reviews, pop-ups, and live chat). You can use apps to extend the power of Shopify’s admin with enhanced reporting, shipping options, and inventory management. And you can integrate your website with popular third-party software such as MailChimp and Quickbooks.
These are just a handful of the technical and business features that make Shopify a perfect solution.
Additional Resources
For a full review of the Shopify platform, check out “Best Ecommerce Platforms and Shopping Cart Software Comparison Chart (March 2017)” via Ecommerce Platforms
Another resource you might find helpful is “E-Commerce Online Store Builders Comparison Chart for 2017” via Website Builder Expert
Shopify versus WooCommerce via Website Tool Tester
Shopify versus BigCartel via Merchant Maverick
Shopify Plus versus BigCommerce Enterprise via Merchant Maverick
I hope this information helps! If you have any questions, leave a comment below.
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