Shopping cart integration is an important factor regarding ecommerce web design. The basis, or underlying structure, of any eCommerce site (ie. online store) is typically a single software platform, or what many people refer to as a "shopping cart". Nowadays, however, many of these systems have become so advanced and feature-rich that the simple term "shopping cart" belies their depth and sophistication.
Given the high number of "shopping carts", or eCommerce systems, available today, you would think that there would be at least one "perfect" solution, offering all the features one would need. Unfortunately, that's not the case. All these systems differ from one another, whether it's the language they're written in (ie. PHP, ASP), the features they offer (ie. price groups, gift certificates) and/or the ease of use in integrating it into your web design.
Custom Shopping Cart Integration vs Canned Approach
Many eCommerce systems try to make it easy for you to get started by offering "templates" that will present their eCommerce system in a certain design or style. Of course, it's one way to entice you to choose their "shopping cart", but their intentions are good. It is a quick way to launch your online store if you're on a small budget and/or you don't care much about the design of your site.
These "templates" are what we call a "canned" approach. There's not much flair or creative originality going on, but rather the template will simply color the standard layout in a different color scheme and maybe throw in a different header element. Sure, a template will save you money and (maybe) time, but the idea that many other people are using the same "look and feel", where their stores look the same as yours, may not rest well with you.
First Impressions Do Count
In today's world, competition online is fierce. Everyone and their uncle wants to be doing business on the net, if they're not already doing it. As consumers and customers, we have so many choices available as to where to do our shopping and business that it's truly a buyer's market. So, it's vital that your eCommerce site (online business) stands out from your competitors. One way to stand out is by having a unique design for your site.
If your site is not original, attractive or intriguing enough when a visitor first lands, it only takes a second for them to click off to your competitor. This is why first impressions are so much more important when it comes to your website.
For this reason, at Misfits Media Group, we do not take the "canned" approach to your online store's design. We will create an original design, based on your specs, that you will be delighted with. But, more importantly, we have the skill and know-how to take that custom design and integrate it into the eCommerce system (or shopping cart) that will be the basis of your online business.
