How do I create an online store?
How do I create an online store?
Dreaming of selling your products or services online but feel overwhelmed at the thought of creating an online store? Don't worry. It's far easier than you think to get started – even without technical experience or a large budget.
In this guide, we go through step by step how you create an online store that's ready to accept orders.
Choose the right platform
The first and most important step is to choose the platform your online store should be built on. There are many different solutions, but they can roughly be divided into three categories:
1. Custom solution (coded from scratch)
This is the most expensive and complex solution, where you hire a web developer to code your online store completely from scratch. It gives maximum flexibility but is time-consuming and very expensive.
2. Open Source solutions (e.g., WordPress with WooCommerce)
Here you use a free base system that you install and set up yourself on your own web server. You have more control, but it requires technical knowledge to install, maintain, and solve problems. You need to find and pay for hosting, security, and any extensions (plugins) yourself.
3. User-friendly "All-in-one" online store systems (Hosted solutions)
This is the absolutely easiest solution for beginners. Here you get a ready-made system where everything is included – design templates, payment solution, security, hosting, and support. You just need to create an account and start adding products. These systems are designed to be intuitive so you can focus on selling rather than technology.
Comparison of online store solutions
| Solution type | Suited for | Technical knowledge required | Price level | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Custom | Large companies with unique needs | High (external developer) | Very high | Full flexibility | Very expensive, long startup time |
| Open Source | Technically skilled who want control | Medium to High | Low to Medium (varies) | Great control, many extensions | Requires technical knowledge, own maintenance |
| All-in-one / Hosted | Beginners, small and medium-sized businesses | None | Low to Medium (fixed price) | Easy, quick startup, everything included, support | Less customization than custom |
For most small businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs, a user-friendly "All-in-one" system like GoShup.com is the best choice. You avoid technical hassle and can focus 100% on your products and customers.
The most important steps to your online store
Regardless of which platform you choose (but especially with a user-friendly system), the process of creating your online store is typically the same:
1. Choose a domain name
Your domain name is your online store's address on the internet (e.g., myonlinestore.com). Choose a name that's easy to remember, relevant to your products, and unique. Many online store systems help you register a domain directly.
2. Design your online store
Now it's time to give your online store a professional and inviting appearance. Most "All-in-one" systems offer a selection of beautiful templates (designs) that you can easily customize with your logo, your colors, and images. Focus on a clean design that makes it easy for customers to find and buy your products.
3. Add your products
This is the core of your online store. Upload images of your products, write engaging product descriptions, specify prices, stock status, and any variants (e.g., size or color). Good images and detailed descriptions are crucial for sales.
4. Set up payment
To be able to receive payment, you need a payment solution. Many user-friendly online store systems often have a built-in payment solution that makes it incredibly easy. This means you don't need to set up agreements with banks or external payment providers – everything is handled for you. Customers can pay with payment cards, mobile payments, etc.
5. Market your online store
When your online store is ready, customers need to find it! Start by sharing it on social media, tell friends and family, and consider using simple ads or local networks. Also think about basic SEO (search engine optimization) to help people find you via Google – it's often about using the right words in your product descriptions and titles.
Get started today!
Creating an online store is an exciting journey that opens up new opportunities for your business. By choosing the right, user-friendly platform, you can get online quickly and without headaches. Good luck with your new online store!