Bespoke Ecommerce

A bespoke ecommerce solution is a custom built online shopping platform that has been developed to meet the unique requirements of a specific, online business. Unlike off-the-shelf ecommerce solutions such as Shopify or WooCommerce, which offer ready built templates and features, a bespoke solution is designed and developed from the scratch and carefully tailored to fit  specific workflows, branding and/or functionality.

However, a bespoke ecommerce solution could also refer to a specific component of an online store that has bespoke elements within an otherwise off-the-shelf solution. These components allow businesses to create a distinctive online experience within the structure of an existing platform, providing the benefits of customised features and functionality with the support and reliability of an established ecommerce system.

Bespoke ecommerce features & benefits

A bespoke ecommerce system may have one, multiple or all of the following features. As we have alluded to above, many organisations are perfectly happy using their off-the-shelf ecommerce platform with one or two custom components whereas some enterprise grade organisations may need many more, if not all of their ecommerce solution and the components within it, to be custom built.

Either way, here are some popular custom components that may be present in an ecommerce system.

• Advanced search and filtering - When you’ve got a big inventory, finding the right thing can be akin to hunting for a needle in a haystack. Custom search tools with autocomplete, fancy filters and personalised suggestions make browsing an ambivalent if not positive, experience. Tailored to your unique categories, your customers find what they want faster which is a win win for all involved.

• Custom checkout flows - Having checkout processes that fit a specific audience’s preferences such as a simplified one page checkout, custom payment gateways or subscription options, can and does increase conversion rates and reduce the dreaded abandoned cart trap. This is a common bespoke component that many businesses add to make the checkout process a breeze.

• Personalised product recommendations - Nothing says “we get you” like smart product suggestions. Using data powered algorithms, bespoke recommendations or “frequently bought together” hints add a personal touch that keeps customers coming back for more.

• Custom product configurator - Want your customers to feel like they own a one of a kind masterpiece? A bespoke product configurator lets them pick colours, materials and engravings - basically, they can craft their dream product, right on your site.

• Membership and loyalty programmes - Everyone loves perks. Custom loyalty programs with points, tiers and exclusive offers keep customers hooked and coming back for more, making every customer feel like a VIP.

• Custom reporting - Off-the-shelf platforms often have basic analytics, but adding custom dashboards for live insights, detailed customer behaviour or specific sales trends can help you make much better strategic decisions going forward.

• Integration with niche/bespoke third party services - Integrating your ecommerce platform with specialised services that don’t usually offer developer APIs - certain CRM systems, shipping providers or custom inventory software - will help to streamline your operations and improve the experience for both staff and customers.

• Branded Email and notification system - Customising order confirmation emails, shipping updates and abandoned cart notifications with bespoke designs and messaging only reinforces your brand identity and makes customer communications feel more personal.