What do you have to provide if you want your website to be like a storefront
?
Let's first consider what a conventional store is like or more correctly what it should be like! When you walk into a store you normally browse through the items on offer. You then probably look at the price of any item you are specifically interested in and, if small, pick it up and examine it.
Should the item be large then you would look at the literature which should be beside the product to help you make a decision. If the product suits your needs then you are likely to go to the cash desk and order/pay for it. If you wish to compare with other outlets you would at least mentally note where to return to if this shop gave the best deal.
Your website should give the same sort of service. The things to be aware of are:-
You must allow the customer to CHOOSE the product. Information regarding size colours etc should be given together with clear pricing and shipping costs.
Let them "pick up" the product in their mind.
Give your potential clients plenty of product detail. However make sure your links are clearly marked and are large enough so that your potential client doesn't have to hunt around too much.
The easier you make it for the customer to complete the transaction the more likely they are to order from you. Ensure that you payment system is simple to follow and make sure that good acknowledgement processes are in place. For example a follow up email with reference number etc.
Tell the customer the anticipated delivery time. Is the product in stock or has it got to be made to order?
Have an answering system in place and reply by return. Preferably have a frequently asked question section. Consider purchasing one of the specialised software programs which are available to provide your own help desk service.
Ensure that your site is always up to date. Never give the perception that your site is not being attended on a regular basis. Include any recommendations you have received from satisfied customers.
Ensure that you include an "about us" section to describe your policies and reassure your customer about privacy issues etc. Include details regarding your returns policy.
Make your store so attractive that people wish to come back frequently. Nice and tidy without clutter. So go and look at a conventional store which appeals to you and select the good points and try where possible to incorporate into your website.
The better your website "store" is the more repeat customers you are likely to get
So please ensure that your website is seen as an excellent storefront