The Internet is, today, the world most used communication tool. People send messages, read articles, shop, socialize, and bank online just as we usually see in the physical world. It is fast, reliable, and interactive. This immense network is open 24/7 and accessible from anywhere in the world. However, what can this powerful and growing technology provide to the person like you who wants to start his/her own business?
Well, imagine having a store that is open everyday, that has only one employee and one boss (you), where people can come and shop anytime they want, where you spend your advertising budget only when someone is interested in your products, where everything is AUTOMATIC. And yes! That is the power of the web.
This article will walk you through three common ways of getting a web store set up and running.
1) Create your web store from scratch
This option is only good if you know some HTML and PHP code. There are a lot of open source eCommerce software out there that you can use to create your online store: osCommerce, Pinnacle Cart, and ZenCart are three of them. These types of software are usually included in the hosting plan that you buy.
Go to megadomainhosting.com, compare the different hosting plans and choose the one that you prefer. You may also register a domain name for your future store.
2) Create a professional and easy customizable web store with shopping cart providers
This is one of the best way to have your store online in minutes, and ready to welcome customers.
How does it work? Online shopping cart providers are companies which build a professional website with an integrated payment system to enable you to process credit cards and bank accounts. All you have to do is to log into your account, add your products information, and you are set up to start making some money. Volusion and BigCommerce are two of many other websites providing this solution.
Note that you will have to pay a monthly fee, but most of them allow a trial period in order to familiarize yourself to their software before deciding.
3) Hire a webmaster to create your web store
If you desire something more specific and personalized to your needs, you may then consider hiring a webmaster to work for you. For example, if you go to peopleperhour.com, you will be able to post your project. You will then have to choose a web designer interested in your job with whom you will work.
