Everything You Need to Know About BigCommerce

The e-commerce industry has been the single fastest-growing industry globally. Well, that statement itself says a lot about the massive potential that the e-commerce market holds for TO-BE aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their way into this industry, especially BigCommerce. According to one study, the e-commerce market was valued at 768 billion dollars in the United States alone. This number is expected to soar to USD 1.3 trillion by 2025 (making it one of the biggest potential markets, certainly).

But wait…

With the massive potential, there ought to be even higher competition, right? Yup, that’s the challenge all e-commerce store owners have to face. With hundreds and thousands of stores competing for the same service/product in the market your store needs to have that extra kick that can help it stand out from the competition and attract customers.

Enters BigCommerce…

In simplest terms, BigCommerce is a web development platform that enables users to create the most stunning, feature-packed, and aesthetically modern e-commerce stores. The BigCommerce platform brings in various built-in features and functionalities that enable store owners to add that extra kick they need to stand out from the competition and make it a success story.

Below in this blog, we will be looking to answer, what is BigCommerce and what it brings to the table for e-commerce store owners. So, if, you too, are interested in claiming your share of the e-commerce market sit back and read through this blog to know it’s BigCommerce is the right platform for you to get started.

What is BigCommerce?

Before we delve deeper into the technicalities of the platform, let’s start by briefly answering your query, “What is BigCommerce”. If you’re an aspiring e-commerce mogul or just someone curious about the wonders of online selling, you’re in for a treat. BigCommerce is not your run-of-the-mill e-commerce platform—it’s a powerhouse that has been empowering businesses of all sizes to strut their stuff in the digital marketplace.

At its core, BigCommerce is a top-tier, cloud-based e-commerce platform that’s designed to make your wildest e-commerce dreams come true. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of online selling platforms, equipped with a plethora of tools, features, and functionalities to help you set up, manage, and flourish in the online retail space. Think of it as your trusty sidekick on the quest for e-commerce supremacy.

Why Should You Choose BigCommerce for Your Store Development?

Let’s talk business, shall we? If you’re gearing up to launch your online store, BigCommerce might just be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.

Simple Onboarding

Are you tired of complex and confusing setup processes? Say goodbye to those woes, because BigCommerce boasts an incredibly user-friendly onboarding experience. Even if you’re not a tech-savvy individual, the platform’s straightforward setup will make you feel like an e-commerce pro from the get-go. This hassle-free onboarding is like a breath of fresh air for newcomers and seasoned sellers alike.

• Simplicity Redefined: BigCommerce’s intuitive setup process eliminates the need for a computer science degree.
• Guided Wizards: Step-by-step wizards hold your hand through the initial store configuration.
• No Fuss, No Muss: Enjoy a quick and painless journey from signing up to selling your first product.

Easy to Use and Top Features

Once you’re aboard the BigCommerce train, you’ll be amazed by the plethora of top-notch features at your fingertips. It’s like having a virtual toolkit designed to elevate your online store to new heights. From customizable product catalogs to advanced inventory management, every tool you need to craft a compelling shopping experience is right here.

• Extensive App Store: Enhance your store’s capabilities with a wide array of third-party apps.
• Payment Gateways Galore: Seamlessly integrate major payment gateways for convenient transactions.
• Conversion-Boosting Tools: Abandoned cart recovery, product recommendations – tools that turn visitors into buyers.

Mobile-Friendly Themes and Templates

In today’s mobile-driven world, having a mobile-responsive online store isn’t just an advantage, it’s a necessity. BigCommerce understands this like no other, offering a rich selection of mobile-friendly themes and templates that ensure your store looks and functions flawlessly across all devices. Whether your customers are browsing from a smartphone, tablet, or desktop, they’ll enjoy a seamless shopping experience.

• Responsive Design: Themes automatically adapt to various screen sizes, making navigation a breeze.
• Customization Capabilities: Personalize themes to match your brand’s identity and captivate your audience.
• Conversion Optimized: Mobile-friendly designs lead to higher customer engagement and increased sales.

SEO-Ready Platform

In the highly competitive world of online commerce, being discovered by potential customers is key. This is where BigCommerce’s SEO-friendly architecture comes into play. Say goodbye to the days of struggling to rank on search engines; with BigCommerce, you’re equipped with the tools and features necessary to enhance your store’s visibility and climb those search result rankings.

• Built-in SEO Tools: Simplified SEO management that aids in optimizing product listings and pages.
• Mobile-First Indexing: Google-friendly mobile layouts ensure your store remains relevant in search results.
• Page Speed Optimization: Fast-loading pages not only please customers but also search engine algorithms.

Must-Have Features of BigCommerce Store

Well, now let’s quickly move on and see some of the most intriguing features of BigCommerce that will help your e-commerce store stand out and shine like the north star of the e-commerce market!

Ample Products, File Storage, and Bandwidth

Do you have an expansive product catalog that’s ready to shine on the digital stage? BigCommerce has got you covered. You won’t be hemmed in by limitations here. With generous storage and bandwidth allowances, you can showcase and sell a multitude of products without breaking a digital sweat. From delicate jewelry to rugged outdoor gear, your store’s shelves are virtually limitless.

• Limitless Product Scaling: Expand your product range as your business grows, without constraints.
• Ample Bandwidth: Enjoy smooth performance, even during traffic spikes and holiday rushes.
• Rich Media Storage: Showcase products with high-resolution images and multimedia without worry.

Single Page or Instant Checkout

Ever been annoyed by the complex checkout processes that make you second-guess your purchasing decisions? Bid farewell to cart abandonment, BigCommerce brings you the gift of single-page or instant checkout. Streamlined and hassle-free, this feature eliminates unnecessary steps, ensuring customers get from “Add to Cart” to “Thank You” with minimal fuss.

• Conversion Boosting: A simplified checkout process minimizes drop-offs, maximizing your conversion rates.
• Guest Checkout: No mandatory account creation means fewer barriers to completing a purchase.
• Effortless Upselling: Suggest related products during checkout to sweeten the deal for customers.

Rating and Reviews

Customer feedback is the lifeblood of online success. With BigCommerce’s built-in rating and reviews system, you empower your customers to share their experiences, building trust and credibility. Positive reviews become testimonials that resonate with potential buyers, while constructive criticism offers valuable insights to enhance your products and services.

• Trust Building: Authentic reviews establish your brand’s reputation and reliability.
• Customer Engagement: Interaction through reviews creates a sense of community around your products.
• SEO Boost: User-generated content enhances search engine rankings, driving organic traffic.

Customizable Coupons & Discounts

Who doesn’t love a good deal? With BigCommerce, you wield the power to create and manage customized coupons and discounts, effortlessly attracting and retaining customers. Whether it’s a seasonal sale, a limited-time offer, or a loyalty reward, these features let you craft irresistible promotions tailored to your audience.

• Promotion Flexibility: Configure discounts based on products, categories, or even cart totals.
• Time-Based Deals: Schedule promotions to align with holidays, special events, and shopping trends.
• Customer Delight: Reward loyal customers with exclusive discounts, nurturing brand loyalty.

Multiple Payment Options

Flexibility is the name of the game when it comes to payments. BigCommerce integrates seamlessly with an array of payment gateways, ensuring that your customers can make transactions using their preferred methods. From credit cards to digital wallets, you’re catering to diverse payment preferences.

• Global Reach: Support international customers with region-specific payment options.
• Security Assurance: Partnering with trusted payment gateways ensures secure transactions.
• Reduced Abandonment: Offering familiar payment methods minimizes checkout hesitations.

BigCommerce B2B Edition

BigCommerce isn’t just about B2C – it’s also a powerful player in the B2B arena. With its specialized B2B edition, you can create a personalized and efficient wholesale shopping experience. Tailor pricing, product catalogs, and purchasing processes for your business clients, paving the way for strong B2B relationships.

• Custom Pricing: Set unique pricing tiers for different B2B clients, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.
• Quoting System: Simplify negotiation with a built-in quotation system for bulk orders.
• Streamlined Reordering: B2B clients can easily reorder products, streamlining their procurement process.

High Uptime Rate

In the bustling realm of e-commerce, every second counts. Downtime can be detrimental to your business’s reputation and revenue. Fear not, BigCommerce boasts an impressive uptime rate, ensuring that your store remains accessible and operational, even during high-traffic scenarios.

• Reliability Unleashed: High uptime guarantees consistent shopping experiences for your customers.
• Downtime Defense: Regular maintenance and optimizations contribute to minimal service disruptions.
• Business Continuity: Your online store remains open 24/7, accommodating global customers and time zones.

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Popular BigCommerce Websites

Now, let’s take a gander at some shining examples of how BigCommerce has paved the way for stunning online stores across various niches.

Sony

The global electronics giant, Sony, harnesses BigCommerce’s power to deliver a sleek and immersive shopping experience for its tech-savvy customers. From cameras to headphones, their online store exudes the same innovation their products are known for.

Ubisoft Store

Gaming enthusiasts unite! The Ubisoft Store leverages BigCommerce’s versatility to offer a gaming paradise. From pre-orders to collector’s editions, their store structure lets gamers dive deep into their favorite virtual worlds.

UPLIFT Desk

Elevate your workspace with UPLIFT Desk. Their BigCommerce-powered store not only showcases their ergonomic wonders but also ensures a user-friendly interface for exploring the various desk options, sizes, and accessories.

Airtasker

Service marketplace Airtasker utilizes BigCommerce to connect users with skilled taskers. BigCommerce’s customization capabilities help Airtasker create a user-centric platform where tasks and services can be seamlessly listed and requested.

Step By Step Guide to BigCommerce Development

Well, now that you know what is big commerce and why it’s one of the more preferred eCommerce web development platforms. Let’s quickly move on and see a brief step-wise guide to BigCommerce development:

Setting Up Your Development Environment

To start building your online store with BigCommerce, setting up the right development environment is crucial. Follow these steps:

1. Choose Your Platform: Opt for BigCommerce as your e-commerce development platform. Its user-friendly interface and powerful features make it an ideal choice.
2. Master the Basics: Familiarize yourself with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript – the fundamental languages of web development. This knowledge will empower you to customize your store effectively.
3. Local Development: Utilize tools like Docker to create a local development environment. This isolated space allows you to experiment with design and functionality without affecting your live store.
4. Select a Theme: Browse through BigCommerce’s collection of themes and choose one that aligns with your brand identity and products.
5. Development Store: Create a dedicated development store within BigCommerce. This serves as a sandbox for testing new features and configurations.

Working With the BigCommerce API

Understanding the BigCommerce API unlocks a realm of possibilities for enhancing your store’s functionality:

• Seamless Integrations: The BigCommerce API enables integration with third-party tools such as payment gateways, analytics, and marketing automation, streamlining your business operations.
• Custom Enhancements: Leverage the API to create custom apps and features tailored to your specific needs. This is particularly useful for delivering a unique user experience.
• Data Management: Utilize the API to manage and analyze data related to orders, customers, and products. This data-driven approach informs strategic decisions and optimizations.

Testing and Launching Your Store

Before launching your online store, meticulous testing is essential. Here’s the process:

• Thorough Quality Assurance: Test all aspects of your store, including product listings, cart functionality, and checkout processes. Ensure a smooth and glitch-free user experience.
• Performance Optimization: Optimize your store’s performance by compressing images, minimizing code, and improving loading times. A fast-loading store enhances user satisfaction.
• Payment Gateway Testing: Verify that payment gateways are functioning correctly. This prevents any hindrances in the payment process during real transactions.
• Mobile Responsiveness: Confirm that your store displays and functions seamlessly across various devices, especially mobile phones.
• Search Engine Readiness: Implement SEO best practices by incorporating relevant keywords and meta information. This boosts your store’s visibility in search engine results.
• The Grand Launch: With thorough testing completed, confidently launch your store. Promote it through marketing channels like social media and email to attract initial visitors.

BigCommerce Plans and Pricing

Well, now it’s time to decode the BigCommerce plans. Let’s look at different BigCommerce plans including what each BigCommerce plan brings to the table for you and the price of each plan.

BigCommerce Standard

The BigCommerce Standard plan is your gateway to e-commerce excellence. With an assortment of features tailored for startups and small businesses, this plan packs a punch without emptying your wallet.

Key Features:

• Unlimited products, file storage, and bandwidth.
• Ability to sell across multiple channels, from social media to marketplaces.
• Advanced SEO and customizable URLs to boost your store’s visibility.
• Responsive and mobile-optimized store design, ensuring seamless user experiences.

Price Range: BigCommerce Standard plans start at $29.95 per month and offer a bang for your buck that’s hard to beat. With a slew of features to kickstart your online venture, this plan is designed to grow your business.

BigCommerce Plus

For those who are ready to take their online business to the next level, the BigCommerce Plus plan beckons. With additional features and a broader scope, this plan is a stepping stone to e-commerce success.

Key Features:

• All features from the Standard plan, plus real-time carrier shipping quotes for accurate pricing.
• Customer groups and segmentation for targeted marketing campaigns.
• Abandoned cart saver to recover potentially lost sales.
• Stored credit card information for swift and secure transactions.

Price Range: The BigCommerce Plus plan comes in at $79.95 per month, delivering a comprehensive toolkit that empowers you to craft memorable shopping experiences.

BigCommerce Pro

As your ambitions soar, the BigCommerce Pro plan rises to meet them. Designed for growing businesses, this plan amplifies your capabilities and sets the stage for expansion.

Key Features:

• All features from the Plus plan, along with Google customer reviews integration.
• Custom SSL for enhanced security and customer trust.
• Faceted search for effortless product discovery.
• Dedicated SSL to ensure a secure shopping environment.

Price Range: The BigCommerce Pro plan starts at $299.95 per month, providing a suite of tools to optimize your store’s performance and streamline operations.

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BigCommerce Enterprise

For enterprises with grand visions and complex requirements, the BigCommerce Enterprise plan is your ultimate e-commerce powerhouse. Tailored solutions and personalized support set this plan apart.

Key Features:

• All features from the Pro plan, with advanced customization capabilities.
• API support for bespoke integrations and solutions.
• Unlimited staff accounts and roles to manage your team efficiently.
• White-glove account management and priority support for smooth sailing.

Price: The BigCommerce Enterprise plan is tailored to your specific needs, with pricing available upon consultation. This plan is designed to elevate your business to new heights.

Conclusion: Your BigCommerce Journey Begins Here

As we reach the end of this enlightening guide, it’s evident that BigCommerce is your partner in crafting an extraordinary online store. The platform offers something for everyone. The various BigCommerce plans ranging from Standard to Enterprise, cater to businesses of all sizes and aspirations. Remember, choosing the right features and the right BigCommerce plan is the foundation for your e-commerce success – so choose wisely, and let your journey commence.

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Everything You Need to Know About BigCommerce

At Folio3, we’re passionate about empowering entrepreneurs and businesses to achieve their e-commerce dreams. Our expert team is dedicated to providing seamless, reliable, and affordable BigCommerce development processes. Whether you’re starting small or aiming high, our expertise is here to guide you every step of the way. Get connected with us today and embark on a BigCommerce journey that’s backed by experience, innovation, and results.