An eCommerce software provides an essential set of tools and systems to lead your online business. It offers a trusted way for new business owners to manage various back-end as well as front-end operations such as website design, inventory management, sales, marketing, mobile commerce, and warehouse fulfillment.
If you are running a business online or are planning to switch your offline shop to an online platform, the advanced eCommerce management systems can help you better. The great news is that software developers around the world have already designed several advanced eCommerce platforms to support our online sales.
Types of eCommerce platforms:
There are generally four types of eCommerce platforms that you can access for various business-related activities online:
1. Open Source
Open-source eCommerce platforms promise the highest level of control over your online store. It allows users to modify all parts of the code as per their individual requirements. These systems are more popular these days as they come with dedicated resources for IT and manpower management; therefore, you can have full control over store operations. However, you will have to take responsibility for
security, hosting, update and patch releases, PCI compliance, marketing, merchandising, and many more.
2. Software as a Service
These software solutions remove technical complexities in eCommerce software management so that you can rent the platform while putting more emphasis on business operations. People find it a more affordable solution in comparison to the open-source platforms. Note that the technical staff will be managed by the SaaS provider. You can simply log in to your SaaS provider account and handle your business from anywhere.
3. Licensed
You can buy a license for some advanced software to run your business online for a specific duration of time. Same as an open-source platform, you may need to find a reliable hosting solution. It may also require you to handle the installation task and updates as well. But as this eCommerce solution is not open source, you have to make certain payments for a license.
5. Platform as a service
Open-source eCommerce platforms promise the highest level of control over your online store. It allows users to modify all parts of the code as per their individual requirements. These systems are more popular these days as they come with dedicated resources for IT and manpower management; therefore, you can have full control over store operations. However, you will have to take responsibility for
security, hosting, update and patch releases, PCI compliance, marketing, merchandising, and many more.
If you are planning to take your business online in the Philippines, it is important to start with a good eCommerce software platform. Although many people around the world are using Shopify for eCommerce needs, it is also possible to find many feature-rich alternatives to this software online. The best part is that you can even ensure enhanced functionality with these advanced tools. Below we have listed some of the best Shopify alternatives to lead your eCommerce platform in the Philippines:
1. WooCommerce
Here is a free WordPress plugin that can help you access advanced eCommerce features along with great functionality. When you are interested to save more money for security needs, web hosting, and other accessories, this open-source eCommerce platform can serve your needs better with great customization options.
Pros:
- Highly customizable.
- Free, open-source solution.
- Can be used with WordPress while ensuring enhanced features and SEO capabilities.
Cons:
- Your site needs to use WordPress.
- Not suitable for absolute beginners.
- No customer support.
2. BigCommerce
It is the most scalable and flexible solution among all eCommerce platforms. You will experience the same functionality and features as that other top-rated platforms but the best part is that it offers more scalability with growth in business. The only trouble with this system is that it is not suitable for novice users.
Pros:
- High scalability with great built-in features.
- Allow multi-channel selling.
- Industry-leading uptime.
- Reliable SEO tools.
Cons:
- 1-click upsells are not available.
- Not suitable for beginners.
3. Magento
Magento is one of the best solutions for those running large-scale businesses. People rate it high for highly customizable and feature-rich design options. Small businesses with little web development background may find it difficult to use.
Pros:
- It has an extensive feature set.
- Strong marketing and SEO features.
- Highly scalable and customizable.
- Enterprise-level software.
Cons:
- Expensive..
- Not suitable for beginners..
4. Squarespace
Squarespace will draw your attention to its simplicity. This website builder is beginner friendly and can help you create some stunning website interfaces within very less time. But if you need a very flexible and robust eCommerce solution, Squarespace may appear very simple.
Pros:
- A great solution for new stores.
- Easy to use.
- Several stunning themes and templates are available.
Cons:
- eCommerce requires further improvement.
- Fewer payment options.
5. Wix
Wix is the best website builder solution with several advanced eCommerce functionalities. Same as Squarespace, you may find it simple and convenient to use while offering great scope for startups. It can help you avail all basic cart functionalities and shopping features on the website.
Pros:
- Novice-friendly design solution with drag and drop editor.
- Competitive pricing.
- erfect solution for start-ups.
Cons:
- Cross-selling and multi-channel features are missing.
- Lack of marketing automation features.
6. Volusion
Here comes a hosted eCommerce platform same as Shopify that can host everything for business owners. It offers reliable services for designing online stores, choosing payment options, and adding products as well. It includes almost everything that a new business owner may need to set up a store online and start operations.
Pros:
- Efficient inventory management.
- Order fulfillment features.
- No transaction fee.
- Competitive pricing.
Cons:
- Limited theme options.
- Lesser number of integration and expansion options.
Now you have gone through some of the best Shopify alternatives to design your eCommerce store in the Philippines. Experts advise taking care of a few essential factors such as price, design options, security, performance, features, scalability, integrations, and mobile-friendliness while making a selection for the best eCommerce design solution. Once you are able to select the right eCommerce platform for running an online business, you can enjoy great returns in the long run.