The Rise and Integration of E-commerce
E-commerce has transformed from a buzzword into a fundamental aspect of online business. In the past, the presence of Java applets was seen as a hallmark of a cutting-edge website. However, as the internet evolves, so do the metrics by which we judge website quality. The true measure of a site’s effectiveness lies in its ability to meet the nuanced needs of its users over the long term, rather than simply boasting the latest features.
The Shifting Landscape of Online Features
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Streaming video, once a hot topic, has now become a standard component of web design. Its decline as a “hot” topic is partly due to the realization of its significant bandwidth requirements and the costs associated with producing high-quality content. According to a report by Cisco, video traffic accounted for 75% of all internet traffic in 2017, and it’s projected to rise to 82% by 2022. This underscores the integration of video into the fabric of the internet, despite its challenges.
E-commerce: Beyond Transactions
The media’s focus on e-commerce often lacks a clear definition. If we consider e-commerce narrowly, it might refer to the ability to process online purchases with secure servers. However, a broader view encompasses websites designed for ease of use with a primary commercial purpose, which may include but is not limited to online purchasing. For instance, a hotel website that provides information and allows for pre-arrival arrangements, even without a financial transaction, exemplifies this wider definition of e-commerce.
The Role of Web Designers in E-commerce
Web designers must recognize that e-commerce systems can be integrated with other technologies and that a narrow definition of e-commerce applies to only a segment of the market. High-tech companies often contribute to confusion by using technical jargon like ASP, CGI, and VBScript, which can create cognitive barriers for non-technical business people. Instead, focusing on user-friendly terms such as catalogs, shopping baskets, and currency converters can make the concept of e-commerce more accessible and meaningful.
Crafting Effective E-commerce Solutions
An effective e-commerce solution requires careful design, expertise, and client experience. It’s not a one-size-fits-all $50 plug-in but a comprehensive approach that includes customer service, product support, complaints handling, and online sales. The design of a website’s flow, architecture, content, and emphasis must be tailored to the client’s needs.