Creating an online store is a complex process that requires attention to detail. In this article, we will discuss the main mistakes entrepreneurs make and provide recommendations on how to avoid them.
1. Mistakes in Choosing a Platform
Many entrepreneurs choose a platform for their online store without exploring all available options. The wrong choice can lead to limited functionality, high maintenance costs, and operational inconvenience.
How to avoid:
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Explore the capabilities of the PrestaShop platform.
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Define your needs: number of products, expected traffic, budget.
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Configure the platform to suit your requirements using its flexible features.
2. Incorrect Pricing Strategy
Improper pricing is one of the most common mistakes. Overpriced products repel customers, while underpricing may fail to cover costs.
How to avoid:
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Analyze competitors and the market.
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Consider the product's cost, logistics, and marketing expenses.
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Set up sales analysis tools to understand optimal pricing policies.
3. Insufficient Focus on Marketing
Assuming that creating a store is enough and customers will come on their own is a mistake. Without marketing, your store will remain unnoticed.
How to avoid:
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Develop a promotion strategy: SEO, PPC advertising, social media.
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Automate marketing processes, including email campaigns and loyalty programs.
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Monitor results and optimize your campaigns.
4. Poor User Interface
Complicated navigation and cluttered interfaces drive customers away.
How to avoid:
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Analyze best UX/UI practices.
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Ensure the design is mobile-friendly.
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Test the store’s functionality with real users.
5. Ignoring SEO Optimization
Without SEO, your site may remain invisible to search engines and potential customers.
How to avoid:
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Properly configure SEO: optimize product pages, category descriptions, and URLs.
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Focus on site speed.
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Ensure your content aligns with audience search queries.
6. Neglecting Security
Security issues can lead to customer data breaches and financial losses.
How to avoid:
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Install an SSL certificate.
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Regularly update the platform.
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Implement spam and DDoS protection measures to enhance security.
7. Lack of a Mobile Version
With the growing number of mobile users, not having a mobile version of your store is a significant mistake.
How to avoid:
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Ensure your store’s design is responsive and displays correctly on all devices.
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Test the site on various screen resolutions.
8. Underestimating the Importance of Analytics
Without analytics, you can’t understand what works and what doesn’t.
How to avoid:
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Set up data analysis systems to track key metrics.
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Monitor conversion rates, traffic sources, and average order values.
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Regularly analyze results to adjust your strategy.
9. Logistics Problems
Delayed deliveries or calculation errors can ruin the customer’s impression of your store.
How to avoid:
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Collaborate with reliable logistics companies.
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Set up systems for accurate delivery calculation and tracking to avoid errors.
10. Inadequate Testing Before Launch
Many entrepreneurs launch their stores without testing them in real-world conditions.
How to avoid:
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Conduct comprehensive tests of all functions: order placement, payment, delivery.
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Organize testing with a small group of users.
Creating an online store on the PrestaShop platform is a challenging but rewarding task. By avoiding the mistakes described above, you can not only reduce costs but also ensure the successful launch of your business.
Share in the comments: What mistakes have you encountered when creating online stores on PrestaShop? How did you solve them? Let’s exchange experiences!
