Web
Oct 3, 2024
Bigcommerce website development is a game-changer for businesses looking to boost their online presence. With the rapid growth of ecommerce—expected to exceed $1.3 trillion in the next few years—having a robust and efficient online store is crucial for success. BigCommerce provides a comprehensive platform that simplifies building and managing an online shop, making it accessible even for those with little technical expertise.
BigCommerce Overview:
A powerful ecommerce solution.
Perfect for businesses of all sizes.
Offers flexibility and scalability.
Key Features:
Customizable storefronts.
Seamless payment integration.
Robust API connections.
Why Choose BigCommerce?
Supports growing ecommerce demands.
Ideal for improving online visibility.
Trusted by leading brands.
At RJP.design, we understand the immense value of a well-optimized online store. We focus on creating engaging websites that capture attention and drive sales, helping businesses stand out in a crowded digital marketplace. We’ve partnered with clients to craft meaningful ecommerce solutions that meet their unique needs.
I am Ross Plumer, dedicated to solveing the potential of bigcommerce website development. With experience in digital marketing and website design, I’ve worked with high-revenue businesses to foster growth and innovation. This article will guide you through the essentials of developing a standout BigCommerce store.
What is BigCommerce?
BigCommerce is a leading e-commerce platform that’s making waves in the digital world. It’s a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform, meaning you don’t have to worry about hosting or managing software updates. Instead, you pay a subscription fee to access its powerful features.
SaaS Platform
With BigCommerce, everything you need to run an online store is at your fingertips. You get a complete package that includes web hosting, security, and regular updates. This means you can focus on your business without worrying about the technical side of things.
E-commerce Made Easy
BigCommerce simplifies e-commerce. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, you can create a stunning online store. The platform offers a range of customizable templates and a user-friendly interface, so you can build your store without any coding knowledge.
Subscription-Based Model
BigCommerce operates on a subscription-based model. This means you pay a monthly or annual fee to use the platform. The pricing plans are designed to fit businesses of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises.
Hosting and Security
With BigCommerce, you don’t need to worry about finding a separate hosting provider. The platform provides secure and reliable hosting, ensuring your store is always online and your customers’ data is protected.
Open SaaS
BigCommerce is often referred to as an Open SaaS platform. This means it combines the benefits of both open-source and SaaS. You get the flexibility to customize your store with third-party apps and integrations while enjoying the ease of a SaaS solution.
“BigCommerce is a game-changer for businesses looking to boost their online presence.”
Ross Plumer, Digital Marketing Expert
BigCommerce is more than just a platform; it’s a partner in your e-commerce journey. It empowers businesses to grow and succeed in the competitive online market. Whether you’re launching a new store or looking to scale your existing business, BigCommerce offers the tools and support you need to thrive.
Key Features of BigCommerce
When it comes to bigcommerce website development, understanding the platform’s key features is crucial. These features not only streamline the creation of an online store but also improve its functionality and user experience.
Site Builder
BigCommerce provides a robust site builder with drag-and-drop functionality. This allows you to design your store with ease, even if you don’t have a technical background. You can choose from a variety of customizable themes that cater to different industries, ensuring your store looks professional and aligns with your brand.
Payment Providers
Offering multiple payment options is essential for any e-commerce business. BigCommerce integrates with numerous payment providers like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Stripe. This flexibility speeds up the checkout process and can increase conversion rates.
Integrations
BigCommerce boasts a vast array of integrations, allowing you to connect your store with essential tools and apps. Whether it’s marketing, analytics, or customer service, you can find over 800 third-party apps to improve your store’s capabilities.
API
The platform’s API allows for extensive customization. Developers can create bespoke solutions and integrate external systems seamlessly. This flexibility makes BigCommerce a preferred choice for businesses with unique needs or complex operations.
Migration Services
Switching platforms can be daunting, but BigCommerce offers migration services to ensure a smooth transition. Their experts help move your existing store to BigCommerce without losing data or SEO ranking, minimizing downtime and disruption.
Support
BigCommerce provides 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and live chat. This ensures you have assistance whenever you need it, helping you resolve issues quickly and keep your store running smoothly.
These features make BigCommerce a powerful tool for building a successful online store. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, BigCommerce provides the resources and support you need to thrive in the e-commerce landscape.
BigCommerce Pricing Plans
When diving into bigcommerce website development, understanding the pricing plans is key. BigCommerce offers four main plans: Standard, Plus, Pro, and Enterprise. Each plan caters to different business needs and budgets.
Standard Plan
The Standard plan is ideal for individuals and small businesses. Priced at $29 per month if paid annually, it provides essential features for setting up an online store. However, it lacks the abandoned cart saver feature, which is available in higher-tier plans. This plan supports annual sales up to $50,000.
Plus Plan
For growing businesses, the Plus plan offers more advanced features at $79 per month (annual billing). It includes the abandoned cart saver, which helps capture potential sales by sending email reminders to customers who left items in their cart. The Plus plan supports annual sales up to $180,000.
Pro Plan
The Pro plan is designed for businesses with higher sales volumes. At $299 per month if paid annually, it provides additional features like Google customer reviews. This plan supports annual sales up to $400,000, making it suitable for businesses aiming for significant growth.
Enterprise Plan
For large enterprises, BigCommerce offers a customizable Enterprise plan. Pricing is available upon request and depends on the specific needs of the business. This plan offers advanced features, multi-storefront support, and extensive API access for businesses with complex requirements.
Transaction Fees
One of the standout features of BigCommerce is that it doesn’t charge transaction fees, unlike some competitors. However, you will still need to pay credit card processing fees to your chosen provider, such as PayPal or Stripe.
These pricing plans provide flexibility and scalability, allowing businesses to choose a plan that fits their current needs and upgrade as they grow. Whether you’re just starting out or managing a large enterprise, BigCommerce has a plan to support your e-commerce journey.
Building an Ecommerce Website with BigCommerce
When starting on bigcommerce website development, you have several options. Each caters to different levels of expertise, budget, and business needs.
Options for Building Your Store
Open Source: If you have a tech-savvy team, building your ecommerce site from scratch using open-source platforms might be the way to go. This option offers unlimited customization. However, it’s important to note that you’re responsible for web hosting, security, and updates. This can be resource-intensive as your business grows.
SaaS (Software-as-a-Service): For those without extensive coding skills, a SaaS solution like BigCommerce is ideal. It’s subscription-based, meaning you pay a monthly or yearly fee to use the platform. BigCommerce handles hosting, security, updates, and PCI compliance, freeing you to focus on your business. This option is perfect for quick and cost-effective market entry.
MACH Architecture: MACH stands for Microservices, API-First, Cloud-Native, and Headless. This flexible architecture decouples the frontend from the backend, allowing businesses to innovate and scale quickly. It’s particularly useful for enterprises looking to expand into multiple regions or manage complex ecommerce operations.
Customization with BigCommerce
BigCommerce offers robust customization options, even within its SaaS model. With its open API, you can tailor your site’s functionality and appearance to match your brand’s unique needs. This flexibility allows you to integrate third-party applications seamlessly, enhancing the shopping experience for your customers.
For instance, Virtina showcases how businesses can leverage BigCommerce’s capabilities to create dynamic, feature-rich online stores. Their expertise in customization ensures that clients can achieve their unique business goals without the constraints typically associated with SaaS platforms.
Whether you choose open source, SaaS, or MACH architecture, BigCommerce provides the tools and flexibility needed to build a successful ecommerce website. The choice ultimately depends on your business’s specific needs, resources, and growth plans.
Essential Elements of BigCommerce Website Development
When diving into bigcommerce website development, several key elements are essential to ensure a smooth, secure, and effective online store.
PCI Compliance & Web Security
Handling sensitive customer data is a big responsibility. BigCommerce takes this seriously by offering Level 1 PCI compliance as standard. This means your store meets top security standards, protecting customer information like credit card numbers. But don’t stop there. Consider additional security measures, such as SSL certificates and third-party security software, to keep your site safe from threats.
SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
SEO is crucial for driving traffic to your store. BigCommerce provides built-in SEO tools to help your site rank higher on search engines like Google. This means more potential customers can find your products. Use keywords strategically, optimize product descriptions, and ensure fast page loading speeds to boost your site’s visibility.
Payment Options
Offering various payment options can increase sales. BigCommerce supports multiple payment gateways, including popular ones like PayPal and Apple Pay. This flexibility speeds up the checkout process, making it easy for customers to complete their purchases. It’s important to ensure that these payment options are secure and easy to use.
CMS Integration
A Content Management System (CMS) helps you manage your site’s content efficiently. With BigCommerce, you can integrate your existing CMS or use its built-in features. This integration allows you to update product information, blog posts, and other content quickly, keeping your site fresh and engaging.
Mobile-Responsiveness
With more people shopping on mobile devices, having a mobile-responsive site is non-negotiable. BigCommerce themes are designed to be fully responsive, providing a seamless shopping experience on any device. This ensures you don’t miss out on potential sales from mobile users.
Shopping Cart Design & Product Filtering
A well-designed shopping cart and effective product filtering are vital for a good user experience. BigCommerce allows you to customize your shopping cart to make it user-friendly. Additionally, advanced product filtering helps customers find what they’re looking for quickly, enhancing their shopping journey.
By focusing on these essential elements, you can build a robust and successful ecommerce website with BigCommerce that meets your business goals and provides a great customer experience.
Next, let’s explore the functionality to consider when developing an ecommerce website.
Functionality To Consider When Developing An Ecommerce Website
When creating an ecommerce website, the features you choose can make or break your success. Here’s a guide to the must-have functionalities for a thriving online store.
Responsive Design
By 2025, mobile commerce is expected to account for over 10% of all U.S. retail sales. This means a responsive design is crucial. Your site must look great and function well on any device, from desktops to smartphones. BigCommerce offers themes that are fully responsive, ensuring a seamless shopping experience for every customer.
SEO Capabilities
SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is key to attracting visitors. BigCommerce provides robust SEO tools to help your site rank higher on search engines. Use these tools to optimize product pages, improve meta descriptions, and ensure fast loading speeds. This can drive more traffic to your store and increase sales.
Site Speed
Fast site speed is not just good for SEO; it keeps visitors on your site. Google found that the chance of a visitor leaving increases with every second of load time. Optimize images, use efficient coding, and choose a reliable hosting provider to keep your site quick and responsive.
Content Management System (CMS)
A CMS is essential for managing your site’s content. BigCommerce integrates seamlessly with various CMS platforms, allowing you to update product listings, blog posts, and other content with ease. This keeps your site fresh and relevant.
Product Management
Efficient product management means having the right products available at the right time. BigCommerce offers powerful tools to manage inventory, set up product variants, and apply discounts. This keeps your store organized and responsive to customer demands.
Payments and Checkout
Offering multiple payment options is vital. BigCommerce supports a range of payment gateways, including PayPal and Apple Pay. This flexibility can speed up the checkout process and reduce cart abandonment. Ensure the payment process is smooth and secure to build customer trust.
Security
Security is a top priority. BigCommerce provides Level 1 PCI compliance, but you should also consider additional security measures like SSL certificates and regular site audits. Protecting customer data builds trust and keeps your business safe.
Integrations
Integrations can improve your ecommerce site by connecting it with other platforms and tools. BigCommerce offers a wide range of integrations, from email marketing to accounting software. Choose the ones that align with your business needs to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Marketing Strategy
A solid marketing strategy can boost your visibility and sales. Use BigCommerce’s built-in marketing tools to create targeted campaigns, run promotions, and analyze customer behavior. This helps you reach the right audience and grow your business.
By focusing on these functionalities, you can create a bigcommerce website development project that not only meets your business needs but also provides an exceptional shopping experience for your customers.
Now, let’s dive into the steps for developing a custom ecommerce website.
Steps for Developing a Custom Ecommerce Website
Creating a custom ecommerce website involves several key steps. Let’s break it down into manageable parts.
Business Goals
Before diving into bigcommerce website development, define your business goals. Are you planning to sell locally or internationally? Understanding your target market will guide your platform choice and marketing strategy. Consider how many products you plan to sell and how you can grow customer lifetime value. Clear goals will shape your ecommerce website’s features and design.
Shopping Experience
The shopping experience is crucial. Decide if your customers want a quick, hassle-free purchase or a more exploratory browsing experience. Features like product filtering by size, color, or price, and the ability to compare products side-by-side can improve user experience. An optimized, one-page checkout can reduce cart abandonment. Tailor your site to your audience’s preferences to ensure satisfaction.
Platform Options
Choosing the right platform is vital. BigCommerce offers a SaaS-based solution that combines the flexibility of open source with the convenience of a hosted service. It provides robust features like multi-currency sales, unlimited products, and a drag-and-drop interface. Evaluate your needs and decide if BigCommerce or another platform aligns best with your business.
Adding Products
When adding products, focus on high-quality images and detailed descriptions. This builds trust and ensures customers know what they’re buying. Use BigCommerce’s tools to sync inventory across sales channels, simplifying back-office operations and avoiding overselling.
Payment and Shipping Settings
Set up diverse payment options to cater to different customer preferences. BigCommerce supports various gateways, including PayPal and Stripe. If selling internationally, ensure your payment methods support your target regions. Define shipping settings clearly to avoid confusion and improve the customer experience.
QA and Launch
Before launching, conduct a thorough quality assurance (QA) check. Test the checkout process, payment integrations, and ensure all links and forms work. Verify that images are optimized for load speed and check for missing product descriptions. Your site should be mobile-friendly and consistent across devices. Use a checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked.
By following these steps, you can create a custom ecommerce website that meets your business objectives and delivers a seamless shopping experience. Now, let’s explore some frequently asked questions about BigCommerce website development.
Frequently Asked Questions about BigCommerce Website Development
Does BigCommerce have a website builder?
Yes, BigCommerce includes a powerful website builder. It’s designed to be user-friendly, allowing you to create a professional-looking online store without needing technical skills. The builder offers a drag-and-drop interface, making it easy to customize your site to match your brand’s identity. BigCommerce website development is further improved by a variety of templates and themes, providing flexibility in design. Additionally, these themes are responsive, ensuring your site looks great on both desktop and mobile devices.
How much does it cost to make a website with BigCommerce?
The cost of creating a website with BigCommerce varies based on the pricing plan you choose. BigCommerce offers several plans:
Standard Plan: $29 per month
Plus Plan: $79 per month
Pro Plan: $299 per month
Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing based on your business needs
These prices are billed annually and include features like unlimited products, file storage, and bandwidth. There are no transaction fees, which can be a significant advantage for businesses processing many sales. However, remember to factor in additional costs like domain registration and any premium themes or third-party apps you might use.
What is BigCommerce web development?
BigCommerce web development involves creating and customizing an online store using the BigCommerce platform. It encompasses everything from designing your website’s layout to integrating various functionalities like payment gateways and shipping options. The process is made simpler by BigCommerce’s open SaaS model, which combines the flexibility of open-source solutions with the ease of a hosted service. This means you can tailor your store’s features to meet specific business needs without worrying about the complexities of hosting and security.
Developers can leverage BigCommerce’s extensive API to build custom integrations, ensuring your store operates seamlessly with other systems. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, BigCommerce web development provides the tools necessary to create a robust and scalable ecommerce site.
Conclusion
Creating a successful online store requires more than just picking the right platform. BigCommerce website development offers a comprehensive solution that combines flexibility, ease of use, and powerful features. Whether you’re a startup or a large enterprise, BigCommerce provides the tools you need to build a professional and scalable ecommerce site.
At RJP.design, we specialize in making this journey smooth and rewarding. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality service that prioritizes client satisfaction. We understand the nuances of BigCommerce and are here to help you harness its full potential. Our down-to-earth approach ensures that your website not only looks great but also performs optimally.
Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. We believe in building long-lasting relationships by offering reliable support and expert guidance every step of the way. With RJP.design, you can rest assured that your online presence is in capable hands.
Choose us for your BigCommerce website development needs and experience the difference of working with a team that truly cares about your success. Let’s build something great together!
