Jan
2012
A Simple Checkout Process is the Foundation of a Good Ecommerce Web Design
Poisted by : WebGuru Under : Ecommerce Web Design, Website Design No CommentsOnline shopping comes with various benefits. You can compare products from comforts of your home, pick out the one that suits your preferences, and budget. Sensing the growing popularity of online shopping, many people have started creating ecommerce websites.
Unfortunately, most are unaware of the fact that for smooth user experience, paying attention to ecommerce web design is critical. Imagine the shock and frustration when a customer completes the registration process, finds the checkout link, and realizes that the product is out of stock. Chances are high that he/she will not return to the site. To ensure that your e-commerce solutions offer a rewarding experience to your users, read on.
1. Opt for a Short Registration Form
We understand that registration form consists of an important aspect of online shop. However, as a website designer, you should understand psychology of the customer as well. All customers look forward to buy items, rather than filling up lengthy forms. A lengthy registration form, therefore, can irritate them.
The best way to minimize irritation of clients is by incorporating a short registration form in the website design. Ask only for basic information.
2. Inform them about Availability/Non-Availability of a Product
People hate it when they complete the necessary procedures, later realizing that the chosen product is out of stock. For this reason, if a product is currently unavailable, inform about it to the customers as early as possible.
3. Allow Clients to make Changes Easily
Your site should offer clients flexible shopping. This means that if they put an unwanted item in their basket by mistake, you should allow them to change it without any hassle. For best results, add a ‘remove’ link beside every product added to the cart. This will allow customers to implement modifications easily.
4. Offer Real-Time Support
As compared to directing users to FAQ pages, offering them real-time support will add greater value to your site. This strategy will solve problems and queries of customers promptly. Remember that if customers do not receive assistance, while facing problems during online shopping, they will simply cancel their order.
5. Do not Disable the ‘Back’ Button
Many visitors prefer hitting the ‘back’ button when they want to move on from the page they are currently viewing. Disabling this button can create confusion and frustration. To ensure that users do not face any problem, never disable the back button.
6. Allow Users to Check their Baskets
Before clicking the ‘order’ button, allow customers to view their basket. This will convince them that they have placed right items in the basket, and thus offer peace of mind. For best results, incorporate pictures, product specification, along with item titles in the cart. This will help visitors to scan the necessary information quickly.
7. Offer Progress Indicator
Progress indicator allows customers to understand the stage where they are currently. This in turn, will make them feel that they can control the shopping process. Furthermore, it offers assurance to them, since they can directly observe the various stages of online shopping.
8. Simplify the Checkout Interface
Consider the fact that during the checkout process, your customers are concentrating on buying the product. Implementing browser controls at such a stage would disrupt their activity.
To remain on the safe side, opt for a simple checkout interface. Avoid unnecessary elements, such as latest products, discount coupons, and product category links.
9. Avoid Disrupting the Checkout Process at any Cost
If you want to offer valuable information to a customer, who is currently at the checkout stage, consider two options. Opt for a floating window to provide them with necessary information. Alternatively, use a pop-up window.
Never encourage a client to leave the checkout page, no matter what the reason is. Doing so can distract them. Additionally, they may lose track of where they are currently, and finally, fail to complete the order.
10. Highlight Your Delivery Time
To assure customers about delivery of the product, inform them about the expected time. This will allow them to prepare themselves, accordingly. For example, if you highlight the expected delivery date in your site, they can make sure that someone stays at home on the particular day.
11. Communicate with Them
Once the users have placed the order, express your gratitude. Sending them a ‘thank you’ note will definitely impress them. Additionally, inform them about the next step-i.e. you will send them a confirmation mail soon. This will clear up the confusions and provide them with assurance.
12. Do not forget to send the Mail Actually
Finally, send a confirmation mail stating the necessary details and expected date of delivery. This will ensure users that they have ordered correctly. In case of any mistake, allow them to change the order.
Consider these strategies for developing a user-friendly website design.










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