Definition

Shopify is a popular e-commerce platform that helps you create your own online store. Thanks to it, you can not only build your own store yourself, but also manage it effectively - without the need to have specialized technical knowledge or programming skills. 

How does Shopify work?

Shopify operates on a subscription basis. This means that if you don't use it, you don't pay for the services. Importantly, you can join or unsubscribe at any time. The platform provides access to many additional tools and advanced applications. Moreover, it is exceptionally easy to use. 

Shopify allows you to accurately track your transactions and the revenue they generate. You can also connect your store with tools offered by Google and thus obtain much more data that will be used to improve operation and increase the conversion rate.

Shopify offers a wide range of possibilities. The platform allows you to connect with sales channels located in popular social media, such as Instagram or Facebook, but also with the most popular sales channels in the world, i.e. Amazon and Ebay. On Shopify you will find both paid and completely free templates, thanks to which you can create any online store. Moreover, the available tools allow you to expand the functionality of the store, in line with current market demand and requirements. Shopify also allows you to conduct marketing campaigns, opening up to foreign markets. 

What packages does Shopify offer?

Shopify offers as many as 5 different plans that can be changed depending on the level of development our business is currently at. These include Light, Basic, Shopify, Advanced, and Shopify Plus, with prices starting at just a few dollars per month. This cost can be further reduced by as much as 25% by choosing an annual payment. To get started, you can take advantage of a free two-week trial period and check if Shopify is the right solution for you. 

What are the payment methods?

Shopify allows many different payment methods - from traditional credit and debit card payments to PayPal or ApplePay. The user decides which one he will choose. However, you should know that using gateways other than Shopify payment will require you to pay an additional fee in the form of a commission. All payments are, of course, fully secure and encrypted.

Shopify - Shipping

Shipping options are tailored to customer needs, so you can choose what suits you best. The Shopify software allows you to choose regular shipping as well as express shipping options. The platform takes into account all parameters - including the size of the shipment, the place of shipment, the applicable tax system - and on this basis determines the rates and delivery time of the goods. 

Shopify – advantages and disadvantages

The undoubted advantage of the Shopify platform is its intuitiveness and simple operation. Additionally, as part of the monthly subscription, from the first day we receive access to the full service, available 24/7 via e-mail, chat or telephone call. 

The only drawback we can find are additional fees charged for using the Shopify platform in additional foreign languages, as well as fees for using external payment systems.

Shopify - interesting fact

Shopify was created by Canadian Tobias Lütke, who, unable to find a platform that met his requirements, created it himself. Only then did he notice its huge market potential.

Summary

Shopify is one of the fastest growing e-commerce platforms available worldwide today. Using the Shopify platform, we don't have to worry about hosting, security issues, ongoing website maintenance, backups or any other technical aspects. This platform offers a lot of possibilities and provides solutions at every stage of business activity. 

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