Definition

Opencart is an e-commerce platform for running an online store. This software is available in the Open Source system, which means the possibility of any modification and use of many functions, as well as no license fee. 

How does Opencart work?

Creating an online store using the Opencart platform is extremely simple and takes only 5 minutes. First, you need to create an account to log in and choose the name of the store. We install software that has sample themes and products. Of course, they can be freely modified using the administration panel. 

At the beginning of the entire process of building your own online store, you need to introduce the offered products. It is also worth editing the template so that it meets our expectations. A convenient administration panel is used to navigate and process orders, and its operation should not cause any problems. Through it, we will be able to, among others: view orders, print invoices, enter promotions and discount codes, manage returns and product descriptions.

However, Opencart offers more than just selling products. You can also use it to conduct marketing activities, including affiliate programs, conducting marketing campaigns, introducing discounts and sending e-mails to customers. An online store running on the Opencart platform can be expanded using simple integrations. Allegro integration allows you to sell simultaneously in the store and on the auction site. In turn, integration with price comparison websites makes it easier for customers to search for the most attractive goods. Integration with payment and shipping systems allows you to choose many payment methods and streamline the order shipping process, while integration with wholesalers allows you to introduce products to the store. 

Opencart – available packages

Opencart in its basic form is free software, but if we want to use additional modules, we have to pay for them. You also need to purchase hosting. There is also a fee for technical user support from software developers, which provides assistance within 48 hours of reporting. The total cost of using the platform depends on how many modules we decide to use. 

Opencart – payment methods

Opencart provides easy-to-use payment modules that guarantee the security of each party to the transaction. We have a secure bank transfer module at our disposal, as well as payments made using the most popular online payment systems. For users running international businesses, it is recommended to use the Worldpay PRO module, which allows you to handle payment cards around the world.  

Opencart – order shipping

Opencart offers extremely efficient organization of the goods shipping process using several channels. For example, integration with the Furgonetka.pl system allows you to easily send courier parcels via the most popular carriers. We also cannot ignore the option of shipping with pickup at a point, which is currently an extremely popular solution. Opencart also has an inPost Paczkomaty module and collection at a Poczta Polska point. Opencart's universal shipping module is a tool that allows you to create shipments that meet specific requirements. The module is easy to use and recommended especially to larger stores. 

Opencart - advantages and disadvantages 

The main advantage of the Opencart platform is its openness to the operation and possibilities it offers to the user in the free version of the software, i.e. without the need to purchase additional modules.

When it comes to the disadvantages of the Opencart platform, one of them is the problem of compatibility between individual modules and the software version you have. It happens that after the update, the system is unable to support some functions. 

Trivia

The free version of Opencart has a lot of functionality, and the option to use over 1,600 free plugins allows for an even greater, cost-free expansion of the online store's capabilities.

Summary

Opencart is an e-commerce platform with a wide range of services, so everyone will find something for themselves here. The administration panel is clear and easy to use, and in some situations support in the form of discussion forums is helpful. Opencart is a platform suitable for both beginners and experienced online store owners. 

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promotion tool, creative agency, branding agency, consulting agency, company vision, agency 360, strategic consulting, product strategy, strategic plan, business strategy