You have decided to set up an online business and are unsure how to begin. What do you really need to start your business on a small budget? In advance of a website, you will have to perform some preparation work such as market research. You will need to determine if you have a viable market for your products or services. How will your offerings be different from the competition? What advantages do you offer that others do not? All of these will need to be considered prior to opening your online store.
Office Equipment
Even though your business is online, you will still require office equipment, a computer and associated peripherals. The amount of equipment will depend on the scope of your business. Some may be okay to use a single computer in the early days while others will require a server and several workstations. Printers, copiers and multifunction devices will be necessary for hard copies of contracts and other essential documents that are legally required for all companies. Printer cartridges will be required for all and consumable cost can be an important consideration for selection. Brands such as Xerox are a popular choice as they have a proven history in the industry. You can get great deals on electronic hardware by shopping online.
Products
Your market research has indicated that there is a welcoming audience for your online store. This is good news but now you need to consider your supply chain if you are dealing in products. The good news is of course that few distributors deal solely in one brand and a single distributor can cater for much of your product range in a given industry.
Website
Your supplier has been identified and all you need to do now is design your website, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience for your clients and a secure payment gateway, with as many payment options as possible. Define all your policies and ensure that returns and shipping policies are easily available on your site. In addition, define your terms and conditions and make sure that shoppers are fully aware of them prior to purchase.
Your online store is active and your office is set up with a storage area for consumables such as printer cartridges. However, your business activities do not end there. You must also ensure that client information is protected, perform administration and accounting tasks and of course pay the appropriate taxes. These activities are necessary for all companies but many outsource these tasks in the beginning.
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