Managing an online business requires commitment, dedication, and a wide range of software tools and platforms. The good news is that there is a variety of platforms available for your online business.
What you need is a highly versatile SaaS platform. SaaS stands for “software as a service”, a model that lets you access centrally hosted services for accomplishing business-related tasks.
Using a SaaS eCommerce platform is the perfect way to handle your daily operations. Although the number of features in a typical SaaS eCommerce platform may seem overwhelming, the benefits are ideal for businesses of all sizes
LEARN MORE: SaaS: What Is It, And How Does It Work?
SAAS VERSUS OPEN SOURCE: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
To find a suitable SaaS eCommerce platform for your online business, you need to consider the difference between SaaS and open source.
Distinguishing SaaS from open source is simple. Think of it this way: Would you prefer to rent or own?
You can subscribe to a SaaS eCommerce platform as if you were renting a house or apartment. You cannot own or purchase the SaaS platform itself, but your software provider will maintain and secure it to provide you with enough access and options.
Examples of SaaS eCommerce platforms include:
- Shopify
- BigCommerce
- Volusion
- 3dcart
On the other hand, open source platforms give you complete access to a variety of features. By purchasing an open source platform, you can completely modify, customise, and alter your software for your business. The only problem with open source platforms is that they are complex and require some technical expertise. As a result, it is usually best to let certified developers use open source platforms.
If you prefer open source platforms over SaaS, here’s a list of options for you to consider:
- WooCommerce
- Magento
- OpenCart
- PrestaShop
Both SaaS and open source platforms can benefit your online business.
For example, as a SaaS eCommerce platform, Shopify is perfect for SEO since it offers a wide range of user-friendly features to help you optimise your website. The easy-to-use interface makes Shopify an excellent choice for ranking higher on shopping-related search results.
Another example is Magento, an open source platform. Like Shopify, Magento is a highly recommended choice for eCommerce SEO. Its resources and features will help your online store rank higher on organic search results. Besides being SEO-friendly, Magento enables fast loading times, allowing you to provide customers with a convenient online shopping experience.
WHY USE SAAS ECOMMERCE PLATFORMS?
Open source platforms like Magento are good options for your online business, but you could also use SaaS eCommerce platforms. Here are a few reasons why you should use SaaS eCommerce platforms.
1. IT’S USER-FRIENDLY
Compared to open source, SaaS eCommerce platforms are much easier to use. Your software provider will take care of any updates and hosting challenges, which is otherwise up to the user for open source platforms.
2. SECURITY IS NOT AN ISSUE
Your online store’s security is probably the most crucial aspect of your business. You have to protect your customers’ private data at all costs. The good news is that SaaS vendors ensure that security will never become an issue for users. They will patch up any potential vulnerabilities present within their SaaS eCommerce platforms.
3. IT’S COST-EFFECTIVE
Most open source platforms cost a lot of money. But with SaaS eCommerce platforms, it is usually more affordable. Using SaaS platforms is cost-effective, thanks to the exclusion of maintenance and development costs.
CONCLUSION
Whether you use open source or SaaS software is up to you. What matters the most is that you choose the most suitable eCommerce platform for your online business, depending on your goals, needs, and budget. If you need help, get in touch with an eCommerce SEO agency in Singapore.
LEARN MORE: Which E-Commerce Platforms To Choose?
For more eCommerce SEO tips in Singapore, contact OOm at 6391-0930.
