In our quote process streamlining business, we talk with a lot of SMEs who have (or are thinking about) online shopping for current and potential clients. Occasionally, we’re asked the question of QuoteWerks “Do you provide e-commerce?” With this question, we always respond with “How many orders have you taken from your storefront in the past few months?” The answer is almost always less than 10.

So, should you be providing, or thinking about providing e-commerce. In a word, the answer is “No.”

But do those same companies need to offer the convenience of online shopping, option selection and order execution? The answer is “Absolutely yes!”

E-commerce is the opposite of what today’s IT provider is about, which is expertise, understanding of needs, and a completely tailored solution based on specific knowledge of the customer. Isn’t sending a customer to a online webstore the complete opposite?

The message to the customer is, “You don’t need me, just go find it yourself!” Once you’ve given that message to your customer, they’re half a step away from Amazon or eBuyer.

Always ask, what does your online storefront really represent. A much easier, less expensive, lower maintenance option that is consistent with your client messaging is readily at hand!