Is it possible to start an online store without technical knowledge?

Starting an online store is now possible for any entrepreneur, regardless of their technical skills. Technological advances have democratized the process of starting an online store, and no-code platforms have revolutionized the process of building an online store.

For Finnish entrepreneurs, online shopping is no longer just an alternative sales channel but a necessity. The growth of digital commerce has accelerated further, and consumers expect to be able to buy products and services online at any time.

Even for less technical people, setting up an online store is currently relevant, as it opens doors to a wider market without significant initial investments in physical premises. Online shopping enables sales all over Finland and internationally, which is especially important for small specialty stores and craftsmen.

What are the options for starting an online store without coding skills?

There are several great options for starting an online store without coding skills. Shopify is one of the most popular platforms due to its ease of use and comprehensive features. It offers ready-made templates, a drag-and-drop editor, and an extensive app store with add-ons for almost any need.

What are the most important features of an online store for a small business owner?

The most important features of an online store for a small business owner are efficient product management, versatile payment methods, mobile optimization, effective customer service and clear analytics. Mobile responsiveness is an absolute requirement, as more and more customers make their purchases on smartphones.

In product management, the ability to easily add products, manage inventory, and create product categories is important. Easy-to-use platforms allow this to be done through a clear user interface without technical expertise.

The versatility of payment methods directly affects the conversion rate. Modern e-commerce platforms offer integrations with the most popular payment processors such as Paytrail, Klarna and Checkout Finland. Implementing these does not require coding skills and can be done from the platform's dashboard.

Essential features in customer service include automatic order confirmations, chat capabilities, and an easy return process. Analytics, on the other hand, help you understand customer behavior and optimize operations - most platforms offer clear reports on sales, traffic, and conversions.

When should you seek expert help with your online store?

It is especially worth seeking expert help when the needs of an online store become more complex or the business grows significantly. Customized functionalities are the most common reason to seek professional support, as ready-made solutions do not always meet all special needs.

Clear signs of the need for expert help include, for example:

• The need to integrate e-commerce with an ERP system or other business systems
• Starting international trade and the related taxation and delivery procedures
• Multi-channel sales management (online store, physical store, marketplaces)
• Significant customization needs for the appearance or purchasing process
• Optimizing online store security and performance

With the help of an expert, you can avoid costly mistakes and save time. In addition, a professional can help you utilize the full potential of your e-commerce platform in ways that may not be obvious to a beginner. Outsourcing some or all of your e-commerce maintenance can also free up your time for the core areas of your business.

Remember, working with an expert doesn’t mean losing control. A good ecommerce expert will also train their clients to use the platform and perform basic maintenance independently, creating a cost-effective balance between doing things in-house and outsourcing services.