At its simplest level, Shopify is a platform that allows you to sell your products online and in person. But this platform can help you with so much more than that. We thought we’d share more about all the things you can do with this robust platform.
In this article, the folks at Shopify say that when you partner with Shopify, you get the core functions of running a business. More specifically, you get a storefront, a payment processor, a shipping partner, a back office, and a marketing platform.
Read on to learn how one platform can offer all this.
Shopify as a Storefront
As we mentioned at the top of the article, this app allows you to sell your products online and off. A Shopify online store allows you to add blog posts and web pages so you can customize your site as much as you need. They also offer a range of free and paid templates to choose from. Setting up your online store has never been easier.
Included with every Shopify plan is Shopify’s point of sale solution, so you can also sell your products in person. This solution uses a combination of the app and their point of sale hardware (also included with the basic plan).
Process Payments
With Shopify, you have no shortage of options when it comes to processing customer payments. You can use a third party payment provider such as PayPal or Stripe, but Shopify also has its own checkout optimized to be user friendly.
Ship Merchandise
A huge plus to using Shopify is that you can track Canadian, Australian, and US shipments, resulting in less frustrations for you and your customers. There are a few methods you can use for shipping: creating scan forms, arranging for UPS or DHL pickups, and fulfilling orders in bulk.
Track Progress in the Back Office
You can integrate a number of free and paid apps to take your shop even further. The mobile app allows you to manage your business using your phone. There is also 24/7 support in case you need it.
One of the best tools for growing your business is access to real time reports. You can view store activity and learn more about your customers so you can optimize their buying experiences. This means more sales for you.
Market Your Products with Shopify
Of course, no shopping platform is worthwhile if customers aren’t finding you. Shopify has built-in search engine optimization and blogging so you can draw people to your website. You also have the ability to create Facebook and Google ad campaigns you can track directly through your dashboard.
So, whether you’re looking to set up a fully functional online shop or just switch to a new point of sale provider, Shopify has you covered. Since we are a Xero certified partner, we love that Shopify integrates with Xero, making your bookkeeping and accounting that much simpler too.
To learn more about using Shopify or Xero in your business or for help getting set up on either platform, contact us today.