How to Build an eCommerce Website

Currently, the eCommerce market is valued at $18 trillion and is expected to reach nearly $67 trillion by 2033. For your small business to be part of this promising growth, you need to build a killer eCommerce website.

However, getting started can feel overwhelming. Which website builder is right for you? What factors should be considered for creating a smooth shopping experience? And which payment gateway fits best? Your head may be buzzing with these questions and more. Well, don’t worry – this guide to eCommerce web development has you covered!

It includes everything you need to know to set up and run your online store.

Planning Your eCommerce Website Development

Building an eCommerce website requires a lot more than simply setting up an online store. To ensure a profitable venture, you must plan ahead.

This roadmap will help you navigate critical planning areas:

1. Cost-Performance Analysis

eCommerce web development is a huge investment. You must ensure every dollar spent yields a return. Conducting a cost-performance analysis will help determine this. Here’s how:

Plan a Budget By Business Stage

As a small business owner, you should create a budget according to your growth stage:

• Startups: As a beginner, set your budget somewhere between $2,000 – $10,000. This should be sufficient to purchase all the tools necessary to start making sales.
• Growing businesses: As your business grows, you should implement a number of technological enhancements such as customer-specific recommendations, inventory tracking systems, or AI integration. This will cost between $10,000 – $50,000.

Use a Feature Prioritization Framework

While including every cutting-edge feature on your website is tempting, it will wreak havoc on your budget. Use the MoSCoW framework for prioritizing essential features only:

• Must-haves: Product catalog, shopping cart, scalable web hosting, payment gateway.
• Should-have: Mobile responsiveness and live chat.
• Could-have (optional): Wish lists and advanced analytics.
• Won’t-have (for now): AI and augmented reality try-ons.

2. eCommerce Web Development Timeline Planning

Create a timeline based on the complexity you desire in your website. For instance, if you aim to build a simple yet functional site, 3 to 6 months should suffice. However, an advanced store with custom features (AI, wishlist, analytics, etc) would require more than 6 months.

Additionally, check whether or not the following required resources are available:

• Human Resources: Web developers, designers, and content creators.
• Website Fundamentals: Domain name, email, and web hosting.
• eCommerce Platform: Shopify, WooCommerce, or a custom solution.
• Payment Gateway: PayPal, Stripe, or Square for online transactions.
• Marketing Tools: SEO (Search Engine Optimization), email marketing, and Google Analytics.

If you don’t have these resources, allocate extra time in the timeline to acquire them!

Speed up your eCommerce web development process with InMotion Hosting’s Launch Assist service. The Launch Assist experts are available to set up your site’s server, install and configure custom applications, and provide guidance on hosting. They’re there to help you launch your site with minimal hassle.

3. Initial Planning Framework

Crafting an initial framework for the development of your eCommerce website involves defining business objectives and an overall budget.

Here’s how:

As a reader of this guide, you’re already likely to be selling products through retail. Determine what you want to achieve by launching an eCommerce site. Is the goal more sales, or do you wish to build a whole brand online?

Keep your goal in mind and optimize the store accordingly.

Moreover, budget well to develop an excellent site without over-investing. Take into account costs for:

• Design and Development
• Ongoing Maintenance
• SEO and Marketing
• Domain and Hosting

Consider InMotion’s managed WordPress hosting plans. It offers eCommerce optimization, along with 99.99% uptime. This ensures your store remains operational during peak shopping periods.

Choosing the Right Platform for eCommerce Web Development

There are so many options to get started with an eCommerce store. Choose one according to your needs and budget.

Platform Comparison

Platform TypeBest forKey FeaturesAvg. Development TimelineEstimated CostseCommerce Website BuildersBeginners or small businesses wanting an easy setupDrag-and-drop design, payment processing, SEO tools, inventory tracking1-8 weeks$29-$299/month (e.g., Shopify, BigCommerce)CMS with PluginsContent-heavy sites (e.g., blogs) or flexible designsCustomizable with plugins like WooCommerce5-22 weeks$15-$150/month for hosting + plugin costsOpen Source PlatformsLarger businesses with complex needsFull control over hosting, security, and features4-16 weeks$50-$500+/month for hosting, plus development costsCustom-Built WebsitesLarge-scale businesses needing unique solutionsFully tailored design and functionality12-24 weeks$10k-$100k+ one-time development cost + ongoing maintenance

To help you make a quick and suitable decision, here’s a simple breakdown of popular eCommerce platforms:

• eCommerce Website Builders: For a quick and easy setup of an online store, services such as Shopify or BigCommerce are ideal. They are beginner-friendly and include fundamental eCommerce features such as product pages, payment processing, SEO, inventory, and more.
• CMS with Plugins: If your website will include a blog or any other form of content-rich element,  robust content management software like WordPress and WooCommerce plugins are key. While advanced technology skills aren’t necessary, having a bit of WordPress know-how will help you navigate the CMS effectively.
• Open Source Platforms: For more complex online stores with more specific needs, control any aspect of the layout and design through open-source solutions like Magento. The only thing to remember is that you’ll have to manage the hosting, security, updates, and other technology aspects.
• Custom-Built Websites: A custom-developed site provides the highest amount of customization but is also the most costly and time-consuming solution. This is the right path for large-scale businesses that have highly unique needs.

Aspects to Consider When Choosing an eCommerce Platform?

Before you dive into eCommerce web development, explore these aspects:

• Integration Capabilities: The eCommerce platform you choose should support the tools which are important for managing and creating your online store. For Instance,  payment gateways, marketing automation software, shippable cost calculators, etc.
• Mobile-friendliness: According to Statista, almost 70% of overall eCommerce orders are made through mobile gadgets. With that in mind, an eCommerce platform should offer mobile optimization.
• Hosting Requirements: There are two types of platforms. The first are platforms which host websites on their servers (such as Shopify and BigCommerce). The second are self-hosted platforms like WordPress, which provide great flexibility but require you to buy hosting from a third party.

If you choose WordPress, consider using InMotion WordPress Hosting. They offer specialized WordPress solutions with:

• Pre-installed WooCommerce
• Free SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates
• Regular backups
• Enhanced security features

Technical Requirements By Business Type

Once you have chosen your eCommerce platform, think about the technical prerequisites your website has to meet to run smoothly and scale seamlessly.

Here’s a breakdown of technical requirements by business type:

1. B2B vs B2C Requirements

When you are involved in a B2B (business-to-business) eCommerce website, you are more likely to deal with large transactions. Therefore, focus on bulk ordering, custom pricing, and the ability to connect ERP (enterprise resource planning).

On the other hand, a B2C (business-to-consumer) website must be predominantly customer-focused. Simple checkouts, easy payment solutions, and user-friendly layouts are some of the most important elements that satisfy site visitors and convert them into buyers.

2. Local vs International Commerce

If you are selling products in one geographic location, you need a website containing local and regional payment solutions, local delivery, and tax policies. However, if you’re doing business abroad, then shipping charges, currency exchange, and multi-language support should be taken into account.

3. Industry-Specific Considerations

Technical requirements differ between industries. Let’s consider healthcare eCommerce: It will require HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) compliance, enhanced security during the handling of medical data, and online consultations.

On the other hand, fashion or apparel businesses might require product customizers, size guides, and mockup designs.

InMotion offers web hosting solutions that are uniquely suited for many specific types of industry. Whether you are in retail, healthcare, or technology, their hosting services guarantee speed, security, and flexibility.

Essential Features for Your eCommerce Website

The eCommerce market is vast, with more than 14 million online retailers operating around the globe. To stand out, integrate the following features:

Security Requirements

Customers only complete purchases when they trust you. Here’s how to prove your credibility:

• PCI DSS compliance: Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of 300+ security requirements defined to ensure secure transactions through cards. Stay compliant with them!
• SSL certificates: Secure sockets layer (SSL) technology encrypts data transferred between a website and a browser to secure the connection. Having it installed on your website means hackers can’t see or steal any information exchanged between you and your customer. You can buy it from a third party (domain or hosting provider).

Must-Have Components

Lower your bounce rate by making your eCommerce store more user-friendly. Include these components:

• Simple, easy-to-use navigation
• Intuitive shopping cart
• Multiple payment methods
• 24/7 customer support
• Product reviews and ratings
• Refund policy
• Customer experience elements

Performance Optimization

Slow-loading stores result in high bounce rates. Ensure your website loads in under 3 seconds by:

• Optimizing images
• Using content delivery networks
• Implementing lazy load

In addition, make the most of the optimization features offered by your hosting provider to increase your website’s speed. InMotion optimization features include Max Speed Zones technology, UltraStack optimization (a caching system), increased SSD storage, and more. 

After implementing these features for an eCommerce brand, Amacor Printz increased their WordPress performance by 153%.

Plan for Scaling

Once your website starts growing, you’ll need to ensure it can handle increased traffic, data, and transactions. Here’s how:

• Infrastructure Scalability: This refers to the website’s ability to cope with increased demand. To build an easily scalable infrastructure, opt for manageable and easy-to-upgrade website hosting. For example, InMotion allows for hosting upgrades as a business grows. Whenever needed, you can increase resources such as CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (random access memory), and storage.
• Database Optimization: With the increase in traffic, products, and transactions, your website might experience a slow loading speed. To avoid such a scenario, optimize the database through indexing, caching, and efficient query handling.

Website Security and Compliance

Security should top the priority list for any eCommerce store. Here are a few key components of a secure website:

Comprehensive Security Framework

In 2023, over 3,200 data breaches occurred in the U.S. Your website should have a security framework in order to protect customer data from breaches and cyber threats. Security frameworks include:

• Network and Application Firewalls – Monitor and block suspicious traffic.
• SSL Encryption – Protects internet connection through encryption.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Provide extra security for both admin and customer logins.

Data Protection Measures

eCommerce websites often store sensitive user data such as payment information, phone numbers, addresses, etc. Protecting this information is crucial

Comply with data protection laws such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) or CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act) by encrypting stored customer data, restricting information access within your team, and using secure payment gateways (such as Stripe).

Backup Strategies

Backing up your website can be useful in case of cyber attacks, technical hurdles, or natural disasters. Simply use an automated backup solution to regularly back up your website and databases without manual intervention.

Regular Security Audits

Conduct periodic security audits to identify vulnerabilities and ensure all software, plugins, and systems are up-to-date. Security assessments help address potential risks proactively, reducing the likelihood of breaches.

Optimizing Your eCommerce Website

A well-optimized eCommerce website is key to driving traffic, enhancing user experience, and maximizing sales. Here are critical areas to focus on when fine-tuning your online store:

1. Performance Metrics

Understanding and tracking performance metrics is essential for gauging the success of your eCommerce website. Key metrics include:

• Page load time: Monitor how quickly your pages load, as this directly impacts user engagement.
• Bounce rate: A high bounce rate indicates users are leaving without interacting. This could signal a need for better design, content, or speed.
• Conversion rate: The percentage of visitors who complete a desired action, such as making a purchase.
• Cart abandonment rate: Analyze why customers leave items in their carts and don’t complete the checkout process.

2. Speed Optimization

Page speed plays a crucial role in both user experience and SEO. Strategies to improve speed include:

• Minimize file sizes: Compress images, videos, and other assets to reduce load time.
• Use a content delivery network (CDN): Distribute content across multiple servers worldwide to improve access speed.
• Cache: Enable browser and server-side caching to quickly load previously visited pages.
• Reduce HTTP (hypertext transfer protocol) Requests: Combine CSS (cascading style sheets) and JavaScript files, and remove unnecessary scripts.

3. Mobile Responsiveness

To ensure your website is mobile-responsive, implement these aspects:

• Responsive design: Ensure your site adapts to different screen sizes and orientations.
• Touch-friendly navigation: Use larger buttons, easy-to-click links, and intuitive menus.
• Mobile-optimized checkout: Simplify forms and payment processes for mobile users to reduce friction.

4. SEO Best Practices

Search engine optimization helps your site rank higher in search results, increasing visibility and traffic. It includes:

• Keyword research: Target relevant keywords and phrases that your audience is searching for.
• Optimized product pages: Use descriptive titles, meta tags, and alt text for images.
• Internal linking: Connect related pages to guide users and search engines through your site.
• Technical SEO: Ensure your site has a clean URL structure, XML (Extensible Markup Language) sitemap, and fast loading times.

5. Conversion Optimization

Turning visitors into customers involves creating an intuitive, persuasive, and engaging shopping experience.

• Clear call-to-actions (CTAs): Use prominent buttons with actionable phrases like “Buy now” or “Add to cart.”
• Simplified navigation: Help users find products quickly with logical menus and search functionality.
• Trust signals: Display customer reviews, trust badges, and return policies to build credibility.
• A/B testing: Experiment with layouts, colors, and CTAs to identify what drives conversions.

Launch and Maintenance Strategy

Launching your eCommerce website is an exciting milestone, but ensuring its long-term success requires careful planning and ongoing attention. Here’s a comprehensive strategy to prepare for launch and maintain your website effectively:

Pre-Launch Checklist

Before going live, ensure all elements of your website are thoroughly reviewed and optimized. Key steps include:

• Functional review: Test all pages, links, forms, and features to confirm they work as intended.
• SEO optimization: Check meta titles, descriptions, alt text, and keyword placement to improve search engine visibility.
• Payment gateway integration: Verify that all payment methods function seamlessly and securely.
• Mobile responsiveness: Test the site across different devices and browsers for a consistent user experience.
• Security setup: Implement SSL certificates, firewalls, and other security measures to protect customer data.
• Inventory check: Ensure product listings are accurate, up-to-date, and fully stocked.

Testing Requirements

Thorough testing is crucial to delivering a smooth customer experience and identifying potential issues before launch. Key testing practices include:

• Performance testing: Evaluate your site’s load times and performance under heavy traffic to ensure stability.
• User experience (UX) testing: Gather feedback from real users to identify areas for improvement in navigation, search functionality, and checkout processes.
• Compatibility testing: Test your website on various browsers and devices to confirm compatibility.
• Security testing: Simulate potential cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities and rectify them promptly.

Post-Launch Optimization

The work doesn’t stop after your website goes live. Post-launch optimization is vital to improving performance and adapting to customer behavior.

• A/B testing frameworks: Use A/B testing to compare different versions of key website elements, such as product pages, call-to-action buttons, and checkout workflows. This helps you identify what resonates most with your audience and improve conversion rates.
• Analytics setup: Install tools like Google Analytics or Shopify Analytics to track metrics such as traffic sources, bounce rates, average session duration, and conversion rates. This data will help you make informed decisions for future updates.
• Content maintenance: Regularly update your website with fresh content, such as blog posts, product descriptions, and seasonal promotions, to keep it engaging and relevant.

Ongoing Maintenance

Maintaining your eCommerce website ensures consistent performance, security, and customer satisfaction. Key practices include:

• Software updates: Regularly update your platform, plugins, and extensions to avoid compatibility issues and vulnerabilities.
• Customer support: Address customer inquiries and feedback promptly to build trust and loyalty.
• Inventory management: Keep product listings up-to-date with accurate stock levels, pricing, and descriptions.
• Site audits: Perform periodic audits to identify and fix broken links, outdated information, and underperforming pages.

Achieving eCommerce success becomes easier with the right hosting provider. InMotion Hosting offers unmatched features to support your website’s performance and maintenance:

• 24/7/365 Support – Get technical support anytime you need it.
• Launch Assist – Seamlessly launch your site with personalized guidance from specialists.
• Backup solutions – Protect your data with automated backups for peace of mind.

Measuring Success

Measuring the success of your eCommerce website is critical to understanding its performance and identifying areas for improvement. This involves tracking specific metrics, leveraging analytics tools, and incorporating customer insights to refine your strategies.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Key performance indicators (KPIs) are measurable values that reflect your business’s overall health and growth. Essential eCommerce KPIs to track include:

• Sales metrics: revenue, average order value (AOV), and sales growth over time.
• Customer acquisition metrics: cost per acquisition (CPA) and customer acquisition rate.
• Engagement metrics: bounce rate, pages per session, and time spent on site.
• Customer retention metrics: customer lifetime value (CLV) and repeat purchase rate.
• Conversion metrics: Cart abandonment rate and checkout completion rate.

Analytics Implementation

Analytics tools are the backbone of your measurement strategy, providing real-time data and actionable insights.

• Choose the right tools: Platforms like Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or eCommerce-specific tools like Shopify Analytics are essential.
• Set up goals and funnels: Define specific goals, such as completing a purchase or signing up for a newsletter, and set up conversion funnels to monitor how users interact with your website.
• Segmentation: Use demographic, geographic, and behavioral data to segment your audience and better understand their preferences.
• Custom dashboards: Create tailored dashboards to easily monitor key metrics that matter most to your business.

Conversion Tracking

Understanding how users transition from visitors to paying customers is critical:

• Implement conversion pixels: Use tracking pixels provided by platforms like Google Ads or Facebook Ads to measure advertising effectiveness.
• Event tracking: Configure event tracking for specific actions, such as adding a product to a cart or clicking on a promotional banner.
• Attribution models: Apply attribution models to understand which marketing channels contribute most to conversions, whether it’s last-click, first-click, or multi-touch attribution.

Customer Feedback Systems

Gathering feedback from customers is invaluable for improving user experience and tailoring your offerings. Implement feedback systems such as post-purchase surveys, product reviews, and live chat tools to understand customer preferences and concerns.

Conclusion

eCommerce web development for a small business is a viable and valuable step for the expansion of your business in today’s digital society. By following the above guide, you will create a foundation for long-term success.

Remember, the web host you choose will play a very important role in the overall functionality and growth of your eCommerce website. InMotion Hosting offers reliable, high-speed hosting solutions tailored for eCommerce platforms, and is a great option for businesses of all sizes starting on their eCommerce journey.

With features like 24/7 customer support, top-notch security, and scalable plans, InMotion Hosting provides the tools you need to create a successful and resilient online store.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is eCommerce web development?

eCommerce web development refers to the process of creating an online store to sell products or services. It involves designing an intuitive interface, optimizing websites for mobile, and integrating eCommerce features such as online payments, inventory management, analytics, and more.

How do I build an eCommerce website?

You can build an online store via eCommerce platforms. Simply choose a dedicated platform (Shopify, WordPress, etc), select a theme, connect domain and hosting, set up payment gateways and shipping solutions, and test the site. There’s a lot more potential for your business once you have created a fully functional website.

How much does it cost to build an eCommerce website?

It depends on the platform you’re using to create an eCommerce website. Generally, you can expect to pay $5,000-$55,000 for a functional store with 100-10,000 products.

Can I build an eCommerce website on my own?

Yes, definitely. You can build an eCommerce website without coding knowledge. Simply use a drag-and-drop website builder, like Shopify or WordPress.