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FutureLearn

How to Get Started in eCommerce

via FutureLearn

Overview

Understand the eCommerce basics and get started in online retail

eCommerce is one of the fastest growing industries globally, booming like never before. It’s an extremely exciting industry with a lot of potential and many opportunities.

On this course, you’ll get a rundown of the basics of eCommerce and getting started in the industry. You’ll cover everything you need to know about how eCommerce works, from where to focus your business, how to structure it, and where to get started with selling.

Discover the five main eCommerce business models

You’ll learn about five key business models that are used in eCommerce, assessing their pros and cons. You’ll also look at trends and focus areas within eCommerce for an insight into where you can adapt to get the best results.

Explore the frameworks for success in eCommerce

Building an eCommerce store can be an overwhelming task with many different decisions to make. That’s why it’s important to have a framework to take control of the entire process in a logical way.

You’ll assess what makes a good framework, covering topics such as goals and strategies, policies, and tools. When mapping out your framework, you’ll discuss the 9Ps and 4Cs of eCommerce, useful tools to make sure you address all the key decisions in a cohesive manner.

Compare different platforms to develop your business

One of the biggest decisions you need to make on your eCommerce journey is which platform to use to set up your online store and sell online. Luckily, there are now exceptional capabilities with eCommerce platforms such as Shopify and BigCommerce.

This course will guide you through what makes a good platform and how to identify the best one for your business. You’ll then assess and compare different platforms, as well as looking at the role of marketplaces like Amazon, Etsy, and eBay in eCommerce.

This course has been designed for anyone responsible for eCommerce in their organisation. If you’re new to the role, this is a great course to develop your expertise.

It’s also a good opportunity to upgrade your skills if you’re a small business owner looking to develop the eCommerce channel in your business.

Syllabus

  • Discover the basics of eCommerce
    • Welcome to this ExpertTrack
    • Trends in eCommerce today
    • Know the major eCommerce business models
    • The importance of frameworks
    • Weekly wrap up
  • Platforms, projects, payments and performance
    • Welcome to Week 2
    • Understanding and using eCommerce platforms
    • Projects and partners
    • Payments and performance in eCommerce
    • Weekly wrap up
  • Use the power of marketplaces
    • Welcome to Week 3
    • What exactly is a marketplace?
    • Selling on Amazon
    • Selling on eBay and other marketplaces
    • Course wrap up

Taught by

Colin Lewis

Reviews

4.5 rating at FutureLearn based on 6 ratings

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