Web Applications: Enhancements for Online Stores

Friday, September 9 marked the reinstatement of the Lunch-N-Learn in-house educational series for LRS Web Solutions with a web applications discussion about online stores from Bill and Beau.


The presentation covered:
- Who is currently using online stores with examples
- Various features of online stores
- Future enhancements and possibilities

Cassandra created a list of features discussed that she felt were important to improve the online shopping experience:

1.   One Click to Cart.  I hate when I click “add to cart” and I am suddenly taken away from my browsing page. Then the worst is when I have to maneuver my way back to the products I left off at because “back to browsing” takes me to the homepage or removes any filters.  Grr!  I just want to add something to my shopping cart quick & easily, without leaving the page.

2.   Show me the Steps!  There’s a lot that goes into buying something.  You have to know your address, payment information, and if you want to sign up for newsletters.  During the check-out process, I like to see where I’ve been and where I’m going.  By displaying the step-by-step process with the ability to go back and edit information, I simply feel more comfortable.

3.   Share.  I get excited about new shoes.  I want to tell everyone about them and what a great deal I got on them.  Might as well make it easy for me and add a “Share on Facebook or Twitter” link.

4.   Lots of pictures.  The more pictures of an item, the better.  A full view of the item, a close-up shot and pictures of the item in use are all necessities.  What’s even more fun is when users can upload their own pictures of an item.

5.   Customer Reviews.  I don’t know many people that will purchase an item online without first reading customer reviews.  Don’t make me go anywhere else to find that information.  I might buy that item from somewhere else.  Provide a rating and customer reviews where I can easily access them.

6.   Wish List.  I create these constantly.  It’s easier on my parents and my husband around the holidays and birthday time.  If a store doesn’t have Wish List functionality, my family isn’t shopping there.

Here is a quick peek inside this Lunch-N-Learn session for those who might be curious. It's a great way for our team to learn, share ideas, ask questions and stay up-to-date on the latest web technology.

LRS Web Solutions is constantly improving our online store product. So, tell us... What do you love about your favorite online store?