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Key Features and Trends for Retail & eCommerce Software Development

Six in ten businesses plan to increase their spending on retail and eCommerce software by up to 50%. It is because businesses’ digital presence has become crucial to reach a wider audience quickly and effectively. Mobile applications and websites help establish a strong digital presence for your business.

However, the market is full of various m-commerce apps and platforms. The use of eCommerce apps has increased in the last 3 years post-COVID. Most people access eCommerce apps and websites through their smartphones. 70% of people in the USA use smartphones to shop online (Statista). And 45% of US eCommerce sales are generated from Smartphones.

So, your online store should be responsive or work seamlessly across various devices. Along with it, your online store should stand out with innovative features. Focusing on User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) helps to create successful eCommerce software with intuitive features.

A custom Mobile app development is pivotal in crafting the best eCommerce platforms. It follows Retail and eCommerce software development trends to develop cutting-edge solutions. Understanding these trends simplifies the process of selecting the best developers for your project. Besides that, you can put your best foot forward in the world of online eCommerce business.

So, let’s begin and unveil the secret of success in the eCommerce market!

What Is eCommerce Software Development?

eCommerce software development is the practice of building an online presence for an eCommerce business. A web and mobile application development company customizes digital tools and platforms that enable businesses to sell products or services online.

eCommerce developers create mobile apps, websites, and backend systems. You can choose a platform for your online store as per your business objectives. Well, more than 50% of millennials shop online through mobile apps.

Have a look at the image below to check Global Revenue Trends in eCommerce software applications from 2019 to 2025.

Image Source

Benefits of Custom eCommerce Software Development

eCommerce software development offers various benefits. Have a look at these advantages in the space below.

1. Tailored to your business needs
2. Scalability and Flexibility
3. Enhanced Security
4. Improved User Experience
5. Greater Control

Let’s understand all the benefits in detail below.

1. Tailored to your business needs:

   A tailored eCommerce software is crafted precisely to match your business’s unique shape and style. Custom software is designed with your specific needs in mind. Whether it is an innovative design, a smooth customer journey, or a unique product configuration, you get exactly what works for your business.

2. Scalability and Flexibility:

   An eCommerce software accommodates the growing needs of a business. So you don’t have to buy new software as your business thrives and expands. Whether you are doubling your product range or entering new markets, custom eCommerce software scales up smoothly.

3. Enhanced Security:

   Custom software is tailored to meet security requirements. It shields your business from cyber threats and keeps customer data safe. A well-protected online store enhances confidence in the users and attracts more customers.

4. Improved User Experience:

   Improved user experience ensures every click feels intuitive and satisfying. The easier the navigation, the easier it is for customers to browse products and make purchases. Moreover, personalized recommendations improve customer satisfaction, therefore make sure your software has them.

5. Greater Control:

   An eCommerce software offers you greater control of your business operations. And, for development, you decide on features and manage updates with the help of developers. Discuss your requirements and business objectives with developers thoroughly to get a custom product.

Main Types of eCommerce Software

There are several types of eCommerce software. They are tailored to different business needs. Check out which type suits your business.

1. Hosted eCommerce platforms
2. Self-hosted eCommerce platforms
3. Open-source eCommerce platforms
4. Mobile Commerce Platforms
5. Enterprise eCommerce Platforms
6. Subscription-based eCommerce Platform

Let’s learn about the types in detail.

1. Hosted eCommerce platforms:

   These platforms such as Shopify, BigCommerce, and WixCommerce offer all-in-one solutions where the provider hosts the software. They provide built-in features like security, support, and hosting. So, a Shopify app development company can enhance your business capabilities.

2. Self-hosted eCommerce platforms:

   WooCommerce (WordPress Plugin), Magento, and OpenCart give businesses more control by hosting the software on their own servers. Whether you want a Magento eCommerce development company, OpenCart, or WooCommerce, it’s up to your business needs.

3. Open-source eCommerce platforms:

   Businesses can access and modify source code freely using open-source eCommerce platforms. PrestaShop and Magento (Community Edition) are examples of Open-source eCommerce platforms.

4. Mobile Commerce Platforms:

   As the name implies, you can create mobile-optimized eCommerce experiences. You can build Mobile apps and responsive websites. Some popular mobile commerce platforms are Technource, NetSells, Cubix, and more.

5. Enterprise eCommerce Platforms:

   It is designed for growth-oriented businesses with advanced features. If you want advanced features like multi-store management and scalability, go for SAP Commerce Cloud, Salesforce Commerce Cloud, and Oracle Commerce. Find the best web development company that can help you with the right cloud apps.

6. Subscription-based eCommerce Platform:

   They offer a subscription model where businesses pay a recurring fee for access to the software. Examples of this type of eCommerce software are Squarespace Commerce and Weebly eCommerce.

What Are the Key Features of eCommerce Software?

The eCommerce software market is expected to reach a revenue of $8.14 billion in 2024. So, eCommerce software has become the backbone of online retail according to the market size. Understanding its key features will help you make informed decisions about your online store. And, these features allow an effective shopping experience for customers.

1. Shopping Cart
2. Product Management
3. Order Management System
4. Website Builder
5. Payment Gateway Integration
6. Customer Management
7. SEO and Marketing Tools
8. Mobile Optimization
9. Security Features
10. Analytics and Reporting

Explore these features below to gain a detailed understanding. It will help you determine which ones are essential for your business and which are currently trending.

1. Shopping Cart:

   Customers add their selected products to the shopping cart. This concept was inspired by real-world shopping where customers carry a cart to a shopping mall. You as a customer can put all the products in the cart virtually that you wish to buy in the future. You can view the selected products, manage quantities, and proceed to check out.

   Fact: Studies indicate, 70% of online buyers abandon their carts without finishing the purchase.

2. Product Management:

   An eCommerce website should have features for organizing, updating product listings, and uploading products, including descriptions, images, and inventory levels. You can get customized product management features through Prestashop development services. Decide on what kind of designs you want for your website before seeking services.

   Fact: More than 85% of people consider product description vital in deciding to buy a product.

3. Order Management System:

   This system provides real-time updates on the status of orders, allowing users and businesses to motor progress. Managing inventory has become easy ever since the advent of the management system. Moreover, it integrates with shipping carriers and services to generate shipping labels.

   Fact: 63% of consumers are more likely to buy from an eCommerce store that offers hassle-free returns and exchanges.

4. Website Builder:

   Many eCommerce solution companies build software in a way that includes in-built tools for creating and customizing online storefronts. You can customize your platform on your own without expensive coding knowledge or running to coders for help. It lets you add, move, and customize elements on web pages. Additionally, businesses can choose ready-made templates and themes.

   Fact: 38% of visitors will only engage with a website if the content or layout is engaging. So, timely updates and using an intuitive website builder are crucial.

5. Payment Gateway Integration:

   Rising concern over security increases the need for a robust payment gateway in eCommerce online platforms. Businesses can accept and process payments from customers through a payment gateway. PayPal, Stripe, and Square are popular examples of Payment Gateways. They offer diverse options like digital wallets, credit cards, and bank transfers.

   Fact: Global digital payment transactions are expected to surpass $11.55 trillion by 2024 (Statista).

6. Customer Management:

   Customer management tools in an eCommerce website or app help to effectively manage and engage with customers throughout their shopping journey. It includes creating and maintaining customer profiles, tracking order history, and providing personalized interactions through targeted marketing campaigns. Look for the best Web and Mobile app and custom software development services to integrate features into your platform according to your business needs and enhance customer satisfaction.

   Fact: “Loyal customers lead to growth”. According to Bain and Company, customer retention by 5% can increase profits by 25% to 95%.

7. SEO and Marketing Tools:

   SEO and Marketing tools help to create an effective online presence for businesses. These tools help optimize meta tags, URLs, and website content to improve rankings in search engines. The tools also provide features for email marketing, pay-per-click advertising, and social media integration to drive traffic and increase conversion.

   Fact: Do you know? 75% of users never scroll down the first page of search results.

8. Mobile Optimization:

   No matter which device a customer uses to access your eCommerce platform, they should get seamless experiences. To ensure it, mobile optimization is crucial or optimization for popular devices like smartphones or tablets. This includes implementing responsive design principles, where web pages adjust dynamically based on the screen size. Moreover, it prioritizes load times, navigation tailored for smaller screens, and scalability.

   The below image demonstrates the most common devices for online shopping in the USA till 2023.
   

   Image Source

   Fact: Mobile commerce revenue and share of total retail are expected to reach 2.51 trillion US dollars in 2025 (Statista).

9. Security Features:

   Safeguarding customer data and transactions is crucial in eCommerce platforms. YOu can retain customers if you provide security to their information on your site. For this, include SSL encryption which secures communication between the user’s browser and the website. It also ensures that information remains private. Besides that, PCI compliance ensures that businesses adhere to strict standards for handling credit card information.

   Fact: According to IBM, the cost of data breaches is now record high. It is $4.24 million per incident on average, which is a 15% increase in the past 3 years.

10. Analytics and Reporting:

    Businesses can track and analyze various metrics that influence their business decisions using analytics and reporting tools. These tools monitor key performance indicators (KPIs). These are conversion rates, website traffic, sales trends, and customer behavior patterns. You can make data-driven decisions by getting insights from these tools. Integration of these KPIs helps in achieving success in online eCommerce store development.

eCommerce Software Development Trends to Stay Head of Competitors

As the eCommerce software market volume is expected to increase by $9.62 billion by 2028, staying updated about the eCommerce software development trends is vital. I have curated a list of top trends that you should not miss for business growth.

1. Augmented Reality Becoming Mainstream
2. Artificial Intelligence Assistance
3. Cryptocurrency Payment Option
4. Delivery Drones
5. VR for Marketing Endeavors
6. Voice Commerce
7. Video Format Product Description

Explore the detailed information about eCommerce software development trends in the space below.

1. Augmented Reality Becoming Mainstream:

   AR combines digital information or virtual objects with the actual surroundings. It enhances shopping experiences by allowing buyers to visualize products in their own space. Customers can see clothing, accessories, furniture, even cosmetics in their homes. For this, AI-enabled devices are vital with a good internet connection.

   This technology bridges the gap between online and offline purchasing, increasing confidence in buyers while making a purchase decision.

   Examples of AR in eCommerce:

   • IKEA Place: To visualize new furniture and home accessories
   • Amazon AR: To see how various products electronics and home decor fit into their environment
   • Saatchi Art: To visualize artwork on their walls
   • Warby Parker: To try on glasses virtually and find how different frames look
   • Sephora: To see how different makeup products look on a face.

2. Artificial Intelligence Assistance:

   AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants improve customer satisfaction. They provide personalized customer support and interactions. These chatbots can answer customer queries, assist with the purchase process, and recommend products based on preferences. So, AI improves the overall shopping experience from navigating the website to placing an order.

   Around half of American retail industry workers planned to use AI to streamline marketing. And around ⅓ rd planned to use virtual agents and chatbots (Statista). Moreover, In 2024, 61% of businesses plan to boost their technology investment. And, from that, 91% want to explore AI-powered software solutions.

   So, businesses are set to utilize AI for different types of processes in the eCommerce industry to streamline their work.

   Examples of AI in eCommerce:

   • Amazon: Product recommendations and logistics optimization
   • eBay: Search ranking and personalized shopping experience
   • SHEIN: Personalized recommendations
   • Smartly: Smart Ad Tech

3. Cryptocurrency Payment Option:

   Cryptocurrency payment options allow customers to pay for Goods and Services using digital currencies like Ethereum, Bitcoin, and others. Often integration of this feature increases the cost of developing an eCommerce Mobile app. This type of payment system allows lower fees, faster transactions, and enhanced security through blockchain technology.

   According to the HSB report, around 36% of small to medium businesses accept cryptocurrencies as digital payment for selling products in the USA. Shopify and WooCommerce provide tools to integrate cryptocurrency payment options.

   Examples of Cryptocurrency Payment Options in eCommerce:

   • Coinbase
   • Shopify Gateway
   • Overstock
   • Newegg
   • Microsoft
   • Shopify



4. Delivery Drones:

   Imagine receiving hot food groceries and delicious hot meals reaching your doorstep swiftly, bypassing traffic. Delivery Drones are your new delivery boy. This trend has revolutionized eCommerce logistics faster and more efficiently. Delivery drones significantly reduce delivery times. With some companies aiming for deliveries within hours of ordering.

   Infrastructure development and some regulations play critical roles in implementing drone delivery services.

   Examples of Delivery Drone uses in eCommerce:

   • Amazon Prime Air: Amazon has been testing delivery drones for years. It aims to deliver packages to customers in 30 minutes or less.
   • Alibaba’s Cainiao: Alibaba’s Logistics arm, Cainiao uses delivery drones in China. It delivers packages in areas where traditional delivery methods are challenging. So, no more geographical obstacles and complaints of late delivery.

5. VR for Marketing Endeavors:

   Virtual Reality technology is used to enhance customer engagement and shopping experiences. The technology immerses customers in a virtual environment, where they can interact with products like they do in physical stores. It enables virtual try-ons for cosmetics, fashion, and home furnishing.

   Customers can check products online before actually placing the order. It increases their confidence and reduces returns. Customers can check furniture and electronics in simulated settings. Moreover, real estate platforms offer virtual tours of sights, lands, and homes. It drives more engagement and conversion which is a good sign of generating more revenue.

   Examples of VR for marketing:

   • Virtual try-on
   • Virtual showrooms
   • Virtual tours
   • Interactive product demonstrations

6. Voice Commerce:

   You say, and your order is placed. You can make purchases and transactions using voice commands through smart devices. Users can shop hands-free through smart speakers and virtual assistants. They can multi-task and navigate through options effortlessly. It is a helpful eCommerce software development trend for people with disabilities and those who prefer voice interactions.

   Amazon first launched its smart speakers in 2014. After that, opened the door for exploration in this new method of eCommerce. According to OC&C, around 13% of US households and 10% of UK households had smart speakers in 2017. Now the whisper of voice commerce has become a roar through Apple’s Siri. And, around 26% of smart speaker users shop online using voice commerce.

   Examples of voice commerce:

   • Google Assistant
   • Apple Siri
   • Amazon Alexa

7. Video Format Product Description:

   More than 80% of marketers believe that video has become a crucial part of their marketing tactics. Video content can showcase and describe products effectively. Video captures attention better than text and images. It increases customer engagement and spend time to understand the product.

   Video format product description is an ineffective retail and eCommerce software development trend. And, because of immersive descriptions, customers can make informed decisions. They can see products in action, and features, size, and usability effectively.

   Talk to your developers to include such a feature while creating an eCommerce website and stay ahead of the curve in the eCommerce business. Video content helps websites reach the top page 53% more times in Google search results. Moreover, according to Neil Patel, product videos can enhance purchases by 144%.

   Examples of video format product descriptions:

   • Apple: It uses product videos on its website and social media
   • TOMS: Shares video stories about their social impact
   • Zappos: Utilizes videos to provide 360 views and customer testimonials

5 Best Retail and eCommerce Platforms in 2024

If you are thinking of bringing your business online, choose the best platform. Well, many good retail and eCommerce platforms are available, selecting the best depends on your requirements. I have curated 5 popular examples of platforms for web development for eCommerce.

1. Shopify
2. Wix
3. Weebly
4. WooCommerce
5. Big Commerce

Understanding these platforms quickly will help you make informed decisions and choose the right platform for your eCommerce business.

1. Shopify:

   Shopify is an online platform for building eCommerce websites. You can create an online store or website to sell your products and services. And, the platform lets you manage everything from product listings and payments to shipping and marketing. Entrepreneurs and businesses can start their online stores easily using this platform.

2. Wix:

   Wix also offers tools and features to build eCommerce websites. It serves over 200 million users across continents. Wix has 46% of the market share with cloud-based web development services (Site Builder Report). It allows drag-and-drop website building, robust eCommerce functionalities, and customizable templates.

3. Weebly:

   It is another user-friendly website builder with eCommerce capabilities. The platform powers millions of businesses globally and has 40 million users on a global scale. You can easily integrate features like a shopping cart, checkout, and payment options using Weebly on your website. It also offers marketing tools like SEO and email.

4. WooCommerce:

   It is a customizable eCommerce plugin for WordPress websites. It powers 28% of all online stores or over 5 million active websites. Many WooCommerce development services providers help eCommerce businesses to build an effective website. It enables users to leverage blogging and content marketing alongside eCommerce.

5. Big Commerce:

   Per its name, Big Commerce is ideal for businesses focused on growth and looking to scale internationally or on a global scale. This eCommerce software development platform supports well-known brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Skullcandy. Since it is suitable for scaling businesses, provides many advanced eCommerce functionalities.

Steps to Develop an eCommerce Software that Experienced Developers Use

Here are the steps that experienced developers use to build eCommerce software.

1. Requirement gathering
2. Planning and architecture design
3. Prototyping and design
4. Backend development
5. Front-end development
6. Database integration

You can follow these steps to build your dream app or hire a team. Make sure you understand the cost to develop an eCommerce Mobile app before considering either option.

How to Choose the Right eCommerce Software Development Partner?

To choose the right eCommerce software development you will have to focus on some points. They will help you find the best developers per your software requirements.

1. Get clear on what you need
2. Check out developers’ experience
3. Make sure they are tech-savvy
4. Take a peak at their past work
5. Keep communication smooth
6. Find the right fit for your budget

Dive deep into the explanation of each point below to find a suitable development team for your eCommerce software development.

1. Get clear on what you need:

   When you have a clear understanding of your software requirements, you can effectively communicate them to developers. So, first, you have to be clear about what you want.

2. Check out developers’ experience:

   Experienced developers can handle any difficulties during development. Also, they can integrate innovative features and functions that make your software stand out from competitors.

3. Make sure they are tech-savvy:

   Right technologies according to the software requirements make the development process easy and effective. Make sure developers are tech-savvy and know the required tools, frameworks, and programming languages crucial for your software.

4. Take a peak at their past work:

   Check what they have done before or what types of projects they have handled till now. It will give you an idea of whether the developer can handle your project or not.

5. Keep communication smooth:

   Keep in touch with developers during and after eCommerce software development. Regular updates are important to keep the software fresh and meet the new demands, for this, developers integrate and make changes as needed.

6. Find the right fit for your budget:

   Analyze your requirements thoroughly to decide your budget accordingly. Understand which features and functions come under your budget and the cost of hiring developers.

The Future of eCommerce Software Development

The growth in retail and eCommerce sales on a global scale is expected to reach $7.9 trillion by 2027 (Forbes). Many advanced technologies and trends are going to increase the eCommerce market size and accelerate growth. Advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning algorithms will personalize user experiences. Moreover, it will streamline the prediction of customer buying behavior and patterns.

Optimizing product recommendations will also become specific and accurate, improving customer satisfaction. Chatbots and Virtual Assistants powered by natural language processing will enhance customer service with real-time support and drive sales.

Moreover, you will notice that AR and VR technologies have become a norm and most customers expect these features in all eCommerce apps. This is because customers can visualize products in their own space before buying them.

Blockchain technology will improve transparency and security in transactions. This will enhance trust between buyers and sellers. Additionally, mobile-first technology will save companies from striving to deliver better customer experiences. So, the future of eCommerce lies in the integration of cutting-edge technologies, innovation, and personalization.

Conclusion

Knowing eCommerce software development trends, features, types, and best eCommerce development platforms will help you move ahead with the best foot forward. With the growing emphasis on mobile applications and responsive websites, businesses can enhance their customers and reach a wider audience. AI, AR, cryptocurrency payment options, and more are the popular trends that will enhance your competitiveness. Besides everything, Understand your business requirements thoroughly as this marks the beginning of a successful eCommerce software development.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does eCommerce software work?

Users can buy products and services using eCommerce software. Businesses can sell products and services online with the software. Payment gateways, product listings, order management, and shopping carts are the popular features that help users interact with the software.

What is DevOps in eCommerce?

DevOps is a practice of combining Development (Dev) and Operations (Ops). Managing software development and deployment becomes easy with DevOps.

What is the best eCommerce software?

Best eCommerce software depends on your business goals. Well, popular options are WooCommerce, Shopify, Wix, and Big Commerce. Each platform offers unique features so you have to research about platforms and find out which ones align the best with your requirements.

What is the price of building an eCommerce software?

The cost of creating eCommerce software depends on various factors. So, telling the exact price would not be right. Here is an estimated cost of developing eCommerce software, it is around $30,000. The cost can increase with your demand for advanced features, functions, and designs.

How long does it take to build an eCommerce software?

Do you need a simple, basic eCommerce website or app? If yes, then it will not take long to build. Advanced software will require more time. Well, things depend on what type of software you want. Typically, basic eCommerce software development takes only 4-6 months with basic requirements.