Tag Archive for: ecommerce checklist

The Official eCommerce Checklist: Manufacturing eCommerce Success

The time has finally come for you to join the massive B2B eCommerce party. In fact, it’s the $1.8 TRILLION B2B eCommerce party! One challenge though: Where to start? Wouldn’t it be great to have an eCommerce checklist to walk you through the process?

We have your back.

Especially since you’ve made the outstanding decision that you can no longer afford to be the “Best Kept Secret”.

However, if you are not tech savvy and have no experience in eCommerce, just getting started can be daunting and overwhelming.

Yet, embracing eCommerce offers a healthy dose of opportunity.

The goal here is to provide the necessary tools and guidance to help you reach eCommerce success.

Above all, put you on the right path.

Not only to catch up with the competition but also to create competitive advantages that surpass others selling similar products.

This discussion primarily targets manufacturers just starting out in eCommerce.

The intention is to help Scale your Proprietary Process with eCommerce.

Another powerful approach for manufacturers entering eCommerce is to turn your proprietary process into a proprietary product.

Most importantly, entering the world of eCommerce offers extremely exciting new opportunities. 

Opens new doors. 

The bottom line: Sell more products that you are an expert at producing.

Following an eCommerce Checklist dramatically helps your cause.

eCommerce Checklist: Settlers Reap the Land 

eCommerce Checklist

I had a mentor who used to always say, “Pioneers ended up with arrows in their backs. Settlers reaped the land.”

At this stage, the pioneers of eCommerce from the 1990’s and early 2000’s paved the way for entrepreneurs today to easily navigate eCommerce strategies.

There is no reason to find arrows in your back. Therefore, come in as a settler and reap the rewards.

Take advantage of the avoiding the mistakes that others have made.

Following an eCommerce checklist helps you reduce stress while starting your eCommerce journey. 

Especially since now is the time to join the exploding B2B eCommerce market. 

To sum up, you have been in business for many years.

Selling through traditional sales channels.

You found your place in the supply chain that made sense and hopefully lots of Cents.

Now you feel like the world made a drastic change.

Yet, no one sent you a memo on these changes though.

Sometimes change is subtle.

That is until it is no longer subtle and hits you in the face.

Suddenly you find that the traditional supply chain is not following the rules as before.

For example, Alibaba provides a mammoth marketplace making Chinese-made goods much more accessible and easier to purchase. 

In addition, Amazon is soliciting Chinese manufacturers to sell direct to American consumers. 

How have these changes impacted your business? 

Well, change comes hard. Especially when the change is uninvited.

However, change is inevitable.

So let’s dig right in on the necessary steps for you to enter the eCommerce arena.

The B2BTAIL eCommerce Checklist

The B2BTAIL eCommerce Checklist is a basic guide to help you get started.

The intention is to get you in the game and on the field as soon as possible.

This eCommerce Checklist targets two separate scenarios:

  1. For the DIYer: You can use this as a tool if you are a Do-It-Yourselfer looking to tackle the entire eCommerce project internally or on your own.
  2. Otherwise, if you are hiring a web design firm to create your eCommerce store, this checklist serves as a helpful guide to complete the project in a timely fashion. Most likely, your web designer provides their own eCommerce checklist with much greater detail.

With no further ado, here we go…………

eCommerce Basics

  • Domain Name
  • Website Host
  • Select your eCommerce platform (Ex: WooCommerce, Shopify, BigCommerce, etc…)
  • Responsive Design: Mobile Friendly 
  • Company Logo
  • Color Scheme
  • Layout w/Strong Call to Action
  • Category Header of Products or Services 
  • SSL Certificate
  • Install Google Analytics
  • Sitemap
  • Keyword Research

Company Info:

  • About Us
  • Company History
  • Contact Us: Phone, Email, as well as Social Links
  • Meet the Team Page
  • Privacy Policy
  • Security Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • FAQ

Payment Options:

  • Credit Card Processor
  • Payment Gateway
  • Payment Options: MC, Visa, AMEX, Discover, PayPal, Google Pay
  • Set up your state sales tax
  • Fast & Easy Checkout Process 

Shipping:

  • Shipping Policy
  • UPS or FEDEX Map (show delivery times)
  • Show Shipping Rates
  • Expedite Options
  • Provide Tracking Info
  • Return Policy
  • Drop Ship Policy (if relevant)
  • Contact UPS, USPS and FEDEX for Discounts

Customer Service: 

  • Separate dedicated phone number to track eCommerce leads
  • Designated customer service staff to handle eCommerce sales – train accordingly
  • Dedicated emails with your company domain name (@your company – avoid gmail, hotmail, etc..)
  • Set up relevant email accounts (Ex: info@, Sales@, RFQ@, etc…)

Product Listings:

  • Product images (multiple angles)
  • Short Description: Quickly describe what are you selling
  • Long Description: (detailed) sizes, dimensions, specs, all necessary info (do not assume your customer knows your product)
  • Price (single price, quantity breaks, blanket orders, as well as scheduled shipments)
  • Product warranty or guarantee
  • Safety Certifications (Ex: UL Certification)
  • Product videos

eCommerce Checklist: Keep it Lean

eCommerce Checklist

As you take the plunge into eCommerce, go into the process flexible and also lean.

Consider a similar strategy as the book, “The Lean Startup” by Eric Reis.

Eric Reis preaches flexibility and agility. 

Furthermore, be laser focused with your strategic plan. However, be flexible enough to listen to customers.

You may think you have created the greatest mousetrap on the planet.

Yet, the market with confirm if you are right or not.

Give yourself timelines, benchmarks as well as specific goals.

Additionally, a major benefit with this strategy, eCommerce offers you the flexibility to change quickly.

Lastly, keep adjusting and tweaking until you find your grove.

eCommerce Checklist: Think Profit! 

 

In conclusion, what do you think? 

Are you ready now to make the leap into eCommerce? 

Still questioning why go into eCommerce in the first place?

There is truly only one answer. Profit!

Profit by opening new doors as well as explore new markets. 

If you are ready to launch your eCommerce store right now, let’s take the plunge.  

You have my word, eCommerce will create new opportunities and reach customers that you never knew existed. 

Following each item on the eCommerce Checklist is one step closer to reaching your goal. 

Just put one foot in front of the other to finally…..get in the game! 

 

Thanks for stopping by. You can also check out these helpful posts: 

 
 

 

 

 
 

 

/by

 3 Step Approach To Scaling eCommerce for Manufacturers

Scaling eCommerce for the first time can be daunting. Intimidating. Frustrating.

However, it doesn’t need to be that way.

Once you have made the outstanding decision to jump into the eCommerce arena, it’s now time to roll up your sleeves and get started.

Yet, where do you start?

For example, how do you make a great first impression with your website?

Additionally, once your eCommerce store is complete, now what? 

You are still a needle in a haystack. Possibly even less. 

Today, let’s explore a strategic 3 Step Approach to Scaling eCommerce for manufacturers.

Related Article: eCommerce Checklist: Manufacturing eCommerce Strategies 

#1) Scaling eCommerce: Make an Outstanding 1st Webpression

Scaling eCommerce

First, when working with your web designer to build your eCommerce store, laser focus on your customer’s experience. 

You only have one chance to make a great first impression. 

Creating and launching your new eCommerce store falls under making that great first WEPRESSION.

You know, the WOW factor. 

Allow your website to become a powerful and effective 24 hour sales tool. 

Bad website, that customer is gone. 

A few questions to consider when Scaling eCommerce and striving to make an outstanding 1st Webpression (especially for those just starting out):

  • Is your current web designer a good fit and delivering desired results?
  • Does your website make it easy as possible for customers to purchase from you?
  • Do you offer easy access on your website to connect with you? (Phone, Email, Social Media)
  • Do you offer finished goods that can easily be purchased through an efficient eCommerce store?
  • Is your website built on responsive design? 
  • Do you have your SSL certificate? 
  • Do you offer multiple payment options? 
  • Does your eCommerce store show a clear and concise Call to Action on landing pages?
  • Does your eCommerce store offer a quick and simplistic check out process? 

ESTABLISH A BUDGET

Determine a comfortable financial commitment when entering the eCommerce market.

For example, it might be best to start with an annual budget.

To avoid frustration with your web designer, establish a healthy line of communication.

Ask plenty of questions!

If there is ANYTHING that you don’t understand or that doesn’t make sense, ask.

There are no dumb questions.

Go through the quote thoroughly with your web designer to make sure you understand every task that they are performing.

Stick to a strict budget.

Keep in mind, if items get added to the website throughout the project, the quote will go up. 

Project creep hits website design the exact same as a construction project. 

Stop Being the Best Kept Secret 

Scaling eCommerce

A common question once the new website is complete: “We have a new website, why aren’t we getting orders?”

Unfortunately, you are still the best kept secret and less than a needle in a haystack. Just with a phenomenal new website.

How do we change this problem?

Where do you start?

Have a conversation with your web designer on what best steps to take once your new eCommerce store is launched.

If they strictly only do web design, ask for a referral to an Inbound Marketing firm.

You need an aggressive marketing game plan and a solid strategy. 

John Wanamaker, 19th century retailer, famously stated that “Half the money I spend on advertising is wasted; the trouble is I don’t know which half.”

Well, you face the same concerns.

If you have an internal guerilla marketer, that’s fantastic news.

If not, you need to partner with a marketing team that you TRUST.

With Scaling eCommerce, communication is essential.

Find someone who speaks your language. Who sees your vision. Aligns with your goals. Understands your culture.

A solid marketing person or team is critical.

#2)Scaling eCommerce: Dominate Search 

Scaling eCommerce

Keep in mind, the process does not end once the eCommerce store is launched.

Once your new website is complete, now the party starts.

It’s actually just the beginning.

There is plenty of work ahead of you.

However, speaking from first-hand experience, Scaling eCommerce will hopefully be one of the absolute best business decisions that you have ever made.

Create an aggressive online marketing strategy to show off your new eCommerce store. 

Especially since the benefits of Scaling eCommerce are truly endless.

I have encountered numerous entrepreneurs who spent thousands upon thousands of dollars launching a brand new eCommerce store. Only to experience immediate frustration.

Unfortunately, they expected to receive an instant flood of orders once the site went live.

They mistakenly thought that the new website represented a spigot that was turned on with orders ready to pour in.

Scaling eCommerce requires an aggressive game plan as well as a deep commitment

The goal is to start attacking your keywords. Get your name out there.

Create an environment where you “own” the keywords that your customers are searching for.

In other words, “Dominate Search” for your products, processes, and solutions.

You want to be front and center for your strengths and core capabilities. 

However, much easier said than done. 

Yet, with many manufacturers, incredible keyword opportunities exist simply due to residing in a narrow niche.

Hit the Treadmill Hard & Consistent

A new website without a concrete marketing strategy is a recipe for a big disappointment.

It’s like purchasing a treadmill, never using it and then being mad at the treadmill doesn’t deliver results. 

A treadmill being used to hang clothes is probably not a good idea. 

No use = No results 

Hit the treadmill hard and consistent.

Creating content plays a critical role with any B2B marketing strategy.

For example, Blogging delivers powerful results for those on a quest to Dominate Search.

Blogging benefits include:

  • Tremendous SEO Value
  • Customer engagement
  • Educate customers
  • Inform potential prospects on your company, products and services
  • Convert content from blogs into social media post.

Related Article: 25 Blog Topics for Manufacturers Eager to Start Blogging

Since we need your website to appear where prospects are searching, below includes additional strategies to dominate search:

  • Google Ads
  • Google Shopping
  • Images on Google
  • YouTube videos
  • SEO: Fighting your way to gain first-page Google organic listings
  • Trade websites
  • Social media
  • Online Marketplaces such as Amazon, eBay, or Zoro

The bottom line, be relentless. 

#3)Scaling eCommerce: Get Offensive

Scaling eCommerce

Once you create a strong Webpression and start dominating your keywords, let’s get offensive.

In other words, go on the offensive to broadcast your products, processes, services, and solutions.

Catch the defense (competition) off guard.

Slide under the radar. You have been the “best-kept secret” for way too long.

The time is now for you to put yourself out there.

Let the market know the incredible products that you produce.

Introduce a broader market to the amazing products that your team produces on a daily basis.

Dominating search and making a strong first Webpression also helps establish authority and credibility.

You are blanketing the search engines by putting yourself out there. 

Start contacting companies that would benefit from your products and solutions. 

So Who is Your Customer Anyway?

Think about all of the potential customers that could use your products.

Who are your potential customers and where are they hanging out? 

As a business, many channels exist to consider:

B2B = Business to Business

B2C = Business to Consumer

M2M = Manufacturer to Manufacturer 

M2B = Manufacturer to Business 

M2C = Manufacturer to Consumer

M2G = Manufacturer to Government 

B2G = Business to Government

Identify top industries and targets and go on the offensive. 

Remember you are Scaling eCommerce and killing your category. 

With the treadmill analogy, Scaling eCommerce requires lots of sweat and hard work. Hit it hard and consistent. 

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for taking the time to read this post on Scaling eCommerce. 

For additional info, check out these helpful posts: 

/by

eCommerce Allows You to Test Market New Products & Ideas (Cheaply)

Another powerful benefit available with embracing eCommerce for manufacturers: eCommerce allows you the opportunity to explore the market by testing new products and ideas. 

In other words, eCommerce enables you to create your very own R & D department (Research and Development). 

Cheaply…oops…I mean, inexpensively! 

Related Article: Another Incredible eCommerce Benefit: No Major Capital Expenditures

How cool is that?! (btw, is cool still a “cool” word to use these days?)

Adding an eCommerce store to your current website allows you to test new products as well as explore new ideas on the market. 

However, not in the sense of high end engineering or trying to invent the better mousetrap. 

Simply taking the products that you currently produce on a daily basis and aggressively discovering new markets. 

Remember, we need you to stay in your Wheelhouse. 

The market will certainly let you know if your products and ideas provide value or not. 

Launch a new product, service or idea, and the market WILL respond. 

Hopefully with open arms.

Otherwise, the market responds with total silence. 

In other cases, the market responds by saying this idea stinks yet we suggest another direction that makes more sense (and more cents). 

Related Article: Captain Your Ship! eCommerce Helps You Stay in Your Wheelhouse 

The market tells you if you are right (or my case, wrong!)

For example, 100 years ago (well not quite that long ago but it sure feels like it) I founded an eCommerce company. 

This was 1995. 

I quickly discovered how eCommerce plays the role of your market research department. 

At that time, my goal was to build a Business to Business eCommerce company. 

However, the market had other plans. 

Here was my mistake, I was determined that business owners were our target market.

Business owners in 1995 were primarily folks 30 years of age and up. 

The Silent Generation (1925 – 1945) and Baby Boomers (1946 – 1964). 

Turned out I was completely wrong about the target. 

One major challenge that I overlooked? 

The Silent Generation and Baby Boomers were not quite ready to embrace eCommerce in 1995. 

Comments at that time included: 

  • Purchase products over the computer? 
  • What is this “internet thing” anyway? 
  • Isn’t the internet just a fad? 
  • Most importantly the biggest hurdle back then: “enter my credit card information over the computer? What are you out of your mind?”

Come to find out, do you know who had no problem making purchases over the internet in 1995? 

Twenty-somethings. 

Related Article: Like It or Not, Your Website is Your 24 Hours a Day Sales Rep

Market to Generation X

Gen X quickly surfaced as a much more accurate target market. 

Twenty-somethings who were not business owners at all.

One order after the other, we kept shipping products to consumers. 

Many customers were working professionals who could easily shop in the evening as well as over weekends.

Consumers looking for convenience, a wide selection and low prices which eCommerce offers. 

Younger generations always embrace technology much quicker. 

Orders started to trickle in. 

Then more frequent. 

Eventually, they flowed 24/7. 

As a result, eCommerce was an absolute game-changer for my company.

Actually, it completely changed my life. 

It took our company national. From a small local wholesaler to ultimately shipping to all 50 states, American military bases abroad, American territories as well as Canada. 

As a result, we were completely blessed to earn a ranking on the Internet Retailer Top 1000 Companies 3 years in a row. 

As you explore new technology. New opportunities. Take a moment to sit back and digest a critical question: Who is your target market? 

I like to refer to your ideal customer as “Soulmates”. 

Who is that coveted customer you are seeking? 

In addition, what customers would greatly benefit from connecting with you? 

Related Article: Seeking Soulmates: Does Your Website Attract Dream Customers?

B2C You Fool, Not B2B

Lo and behold, a valuable lesson learned. 

B2C showed interest, not B2B. 

At that time, my company served the market as a wholesaler who sold strictly to businesses such as retailers, grocery chains and sole proprietors. 

Therefore, selling to consumers skipped a step in the supply chain.

As a wholesaler, selling directly to consumers introduced tremendous benefits to both the consumer and our company as well. 

First of all, skipping a step in the supply chain welcomed higher profit margins for our business. 

However, even though eCommerce brought higher profit margins for our company, the customer still saved a great deal of money by not purchasing these particular products at retail prices. 

Another powerful benefit that eCommerce offers, we eliminated all receivables.

With eCommerce, every single order is paid for prior to shipping. This was glorious. 

Additionally, all orders shipped via UPS. Outsourcing shipping to the logistics experts delivered (sorry for the pun) a powerful competitive advantage. 

This brought another wonderful moment of freedom. We sold off all of our delivery vehicles (which constantly broke down). 

Furthermore, we captured thousands of customers which eliminated the threat or weakness from relying on a handful of customers representing a large portion of sales. 

Moral of the story here, when the market speaks, it certainly pays to listen. 

In my case, testing eCommerce opened the door to an entirely different market than intended. 

As a manufacturer, you have a golden opportunity with eCommerce to skip a step and find yourself closer to the end-user. 

Get in the eCommerce game to test the market with new products cheaply and efficiently. 

Go for it and discover new customers that you never knew existed. 

Your future customers are eagerly waiting! 

Related Article: A Minimum Viable Product Helps You “Get in the Game”

Wrapping It Up 

Thank you for stopping by to read this post. 

Hopefully, you found this article helpful for your eCommerce journey. 

For additional helpful information, please click on these posts below: 

/by

11 Best Resources to Find a Quality Web Designer for Your New Website

Looking for a quality web designer? 

Awesome! 

That is fantastic news that you have decided to upgrade your website. 

Possibly even launching your first website. 

Now the challenge, finding a quality web designer. 

Not sure where to start? We have your back. 

This post includes a number of excellent resources for you as you explore web design options. 

There is no particular order. Let’s just go with the flow….so here we go……..

1) SBDC – The Small Business Development Center

Connecting with your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) makes lots of cents (and sense). If you have never utilized the SBDC before, there is no better time than the present.

The SBDC is an excellent place to start when searching for a quality web designer.

Also, when an advisor at the SBDC is asked to refer professional services, they typically will refer three names to keep an objective perspective. This prevents favoritism or the possibility of a conflict of interest.

The best thing about the SBDC, their services are……FREE (one of my favorite words).

That is correct! Small business consulting services from the SBDC are absolutely free. Also, engagement and counseling sessions with the SBDC are completely confidential.

With nearly 1000 centers located at universities and colleges, the SBDC serves as an amazing resource dedicated to supporting the American entrepreneurial spirit.

Advisors at your local SBDC deal with literally hundreds of local businesses. The SBDC is funded by the Small Business Association SBA.

Therefore, check with your local SBDC to discover that quality web designer to kick off your eCommerce journey. 

Click here to find the nearest SBDC 

2) Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber of Commerce serves as another excellent resource for discovering a quality web designer.

The Chamber of Commerce offers an abundance of activity for you to engage and connect within your community.

For example, the Chamber of Commerce offers networking events, membership directories as well as plenty of engagement on social media.

Check out your local Chamber website and go to their member directory to view local web designers.

Related Article: Manufacturing Website Call-to-Action Strategies That Work

3) Trade Associations

Many successful web design firms target a specific industry. They have knowledge and experience within that particular sector.

They speak the language and even know industry terms and lingo. Understand the nuances and culture. Know industry trends. They just get it.

Seems like every industry has a trade association if not multiple. If you are not a member of an association, check around to discover your options. Check out their website to see if they have a member directory.

A web designer or firm that targets your industry will likely have a membership or at least advertise on the site.

Here is a link to the Directory of Associations:

https://www.directoryofassociations.com/

4) Friends and Family Plan

The friends and family plan serves as another excellent option when seeking a quality web designer.

For example, your brother-in-law’s uncle’s cousin’s step-sister’s niece might make an excellent choice as your savior for a new website. 

Check around. Ask around. 

You might discover a gem of a web designer by simply exploring your inner circle. 

Buy our New Book on Amazon: Stop Being the Best Kept Secret 

5) Vendors

Check out your vendor websites.

See one that is extremely appealing? Super cool? (btw – is the word cool still cool?)

Reach out to your vendor and ask them about their web designer.

If their web designer hit the ball out of the park for your vendor, it seems like healthy odds they would perform just as well for you.

As their customer, your vendor is going to provide an honest assessment.

The growth and success of your company are definitely in your vendor’s best interest.

That firm comes with a reliable referral. The web designer has experience in your industry.

6) Customers

Check out your customer’s website. This accomplishes several things.

First, it offers a better connection with your customers.

It helps you gain a vision of their culture and vision. It shines a light on the direction your customer is heading. 

Exploring their website offers clues on how you can better serve your customer. 

This also helps you understand THEIR customer which ultimately is YOUR customer just as well. 

In addition, this plays as an excellent taking point. A great reason or excuse to contact your customer and praise them about their website. 

People LOVE praise! You customer will cherish the opportunity to discuss their website which may be a source of pride and joy. 

They should be pleased to discuss the process they took to build their website and share the web designer who helped them. 

7) Google It

If you have still not discovered a quality web designer, let’s turn to our dear friend Google.

Google most likely starts out with paid ads. Check through the ads to see if any companies look appealing. Go ahead and click through a few to see if any sites stand out.

Next, Google typically posts local companies.

If necessary, get specific.

For example, do a Google search that includes your city (Quality web designer in My City, My State).

Another option: If you prefer using a certain CMS like WordPress, do a Google search for WordPress web designer.

Combine the two: “WordPress web designer in My City”.

One more tactic, try conducting a Google search with your industry.

For example try:

  • Quality web designer for manufacturers
  • Websites for manufacturers
  • Quality web designer for metal fabricators
  • Web design for CNC milling

As mentioned under trade associations, many web design firms find a successful niche. Targeting a specific industry keeps a concise focus. As opposed to trying to be everything to everyone, they laser focus on being the best in one particular field.

That web design firm could be a great fit. The concern or downside falls that this firm might serve a competitor. Contact the firm and have an open discussion on how they address this issue.

8) Freelancing It 

Still no luck so far with finding a quality web designer?

Ok. Let’s turn to professional freelancing options. Several websites offer excellent freelance services.

Exploring the sites below, many listings display solopreneurs seeking gigs. 

In addition, many of these freelance sites also list full-fledge web design firms. 

Our team enjoys numerous relationships with a variety of freelancers. 

Each website offers thorough detail on each freelancer.

Things to check for when sourcing freelancers: 

  • Overview
  • Hourly rate
  • Ratings
  • Skills
  • Portfolio

Below includes several freelance sites to explore: 

9) Social Media

Another excellent option with discovering a quality web designer, start with your favorite social media platform.

Do a search for quality web designer or web design firm on your social media platform of choice. Exactly as you would while conducting a search on Google.

10) Local Coffee Shop

Finally, do you have a local coffee shop where young hipsters hang out?

Especially since coffee shops serve as another fantastic resource for networking.

If you happen to be reading this in a coffee shop right now, just look around the room.

Odds are several web designers are within view right now (except probably wearing a mask or six feet away). 

11) Local College or University 

Colleges and universities are an incredible resource and great place to connect with a young and hungry web designer who might be looking for an internship or spending money.

It could also turn into a nice long-term relationship.

Contact your local college or university and ask to speak with the person in charge of posting internships or the job board. 

Colleges and universities serve as incredible resources for discovering fresh new talent. 

Wrapping It Up 

Thanks for reading this post. 

We wish you massive success on your eCommerce journey. 

For additional information, please check out these helpful articles. 

Hey Manufacturers, Being the “Best Kept Secret” is No Longer an Option

Like It or Not, Your Website is Your 24 Hours a Day Sales Rep

 

/by

Converting Your Proprietary Process into an eCommerce Opportunity

“Converting your proprietary process into an eCommerce product line certainly offers game-changing opportunities. 

As a custom manufacturer (aka Job Shop), life can be extremely challenging. Though it is an absolute honor and privilege to serve each customer and contribute to their success. Yet, a custom manufacturer is always at the mercy of the customer. 

When the customer is busy, the custom manufacturer is busy. Unfortunately, the opposite holds true as well (I know, you are thinking, thank you Captain Obvious). 

When a single customer or even worse, several customers turn slow, the custom manufacturer feels the pain. Backpedaling is certainly not fun. 

Therefore, converting a proprietary process into an eCommerce product line offers tremendous benefits. Fortunately, you can discover first hand the powerful results presented when pursuing an eCommerce product line. 

Let’s look at a case study showing the steps as well as the incredible opportunities that exist when creating an eCommerce product line. 

Related Article: Options for Selling “Manufacturer Direct”…..to NOT Consider

Franchising Meets Manufacturing 

First, what we are talking about here is extremely similar to franchising. 

How? 

Exploiting and maximizing the amazing systems that you built over the years. 

Think about all of the mistakes that you have experienced and overcome to reach where you are today. Plenty of trial and error, right? The knowledge of what works and what doesn’t.

Entrepreneurship is certainly not for the meek and mild. It takes a relentless drive to create what you have done to reach this point. Yet, why do many entrepreneurs buy into franchises as opposed to starting their own business from scratch?

The franchisee is buying the insurance policy of proven systems and processes.

A franchise offers the opportunity where most of the mistakes were already made along with much of the guessing removed. The franchise investor is buying what NOT to do as much as they are purchasing what DOES work.

Franchising Your Proprietary Process 

This is a similar concept with your business in the sense an OEM needs your expertise to fill a void or complete a process. You solve a problem for them that would be too costly on their own.

In addition, Scaling Your Proprietary Process prevents that customer from attempting to do what you do. 

If that OEM does not contact you or know that you exist they end up contacting another custom manufacturer. Especially when that other manufacturer has no idea what they are doing and stumbles while attempting to produce the product. The product that YOU are the best at! 

This is the difference where a manufacturer enters an area where they lack the experience, expertise, tools, equipment, and resources that YOU possess. 

It’s an entrepreneur trying to start a restaurant on their own as opposed to buying into a franchise. 

Something to consider: 4 out of 5 businesses fail in the first five years as opposed to most franchises offer a 90% success rate. 

What odds do you like better? 

In the same fashion, your customer gains a huge advantage by teaming up with you and your proprietary process similar to the franchise model. 

Your proprietary process expertise delivers your 99% success rate to eager customers. 

“Converting Your Proprietary Process” at Falconer Electronics 

Manufacturing eCommerce Strategies by converting a proprietary process took place at Falconer Electronics, a small custom electronics manufacturer founded in 1985. Core capabilities at Falconer Electronics include manufacturing commercial power strips, ground straps as well as wire harness assemblies. 

Falconer Electronics, Inc. humble beginnings began within a garage. According to Roger Hall, the founder and President of Falconer Electronics, “We are not able to say that our humble beginnings started in my garage in 1985. Truth be told….I had to launch Falconer Electronics in my neighbor’s garage (main reason being he had a garage and I did not).”

Since then, Falconer Electronics attributes its long term success and growth to an all-star team, many of whom have been employed with the company for decades.

Falconer Electronics owns an impressive customer list that includes Lowe’s, Target, Walmart, and even the Pentagon. Learn more at www.FalconerElectronics.com.

The Scale Your Proprietary Process “Aha” moment hit Falconer Electronics with their line of heavy duty ground straps. Falconer Electronics produces thousands upon thousands of Braided Ground Straps for two OEM’s (original equipment manufacturers).  

It finally hit us one day: Hey, there must be plenty of other companies seeking superior quality Braided Ground Straps. Especially with these ground straps that are Made in the USA. 

So we decided to take the next step. 

Related Article: Hey Manufacturers, Being the “Best Kept Secret” is No Longer an Option 

Ground Straps = Converting Your Proprietary Process 

The company had everything in their corner to exploit this market:

Experience + tools + equipment + staff + suppliers + raw material + resources = Your Proprietary Process 

Then took it one step further: 

Your Proprietary Process + eCommerce = Scaling Your Proprietary Process with eCommerce 

A perfect Scaling Opportunity formula! 

“Converting Your Proprietary Process” with Ground Straps 

We created an eCommerce product line of Braided Ground Straps and added this line to the company website. The company already had a WordPress website. 

Therefore adding a WooCommerce plugin to the website created a cheap and easy solution to kickstart an eCommerce presence. 

From there, we converted their proprietary process into a proprietary product line. 

We kicked things off with the following specs: 

1/4″ Ground Straps 

4″, 8″, 12″, 16″, 20″ & 24″

  • Tinned Copper
  • 10 Gauge AWG
  • 53 Amps
  • Flat Width 1/2″

1/2″ Ground Straps 

4″, 8″, 12″, 16″, 20″ & 24″

  • Tinned Copper
  • 14 Gauge AWG
  • 32 Amps
  • Flat Width 1/4″

The variety includes a mixture of 1/4″ and 1/2″ connectors.  

Then pointed out all of the benefits of Ground Straps from Falconer Electronics include: 

  • Made in USA 
  • Tinned copper 
  • Solder dipped ends 
  • Heavy Duty 
  • Manufacturing Ground Straps Since 1985 

By offering an eCommerce product line, it opened the door for conversations with customers. This new process allowed potential customers to engage with the company. Customers could purchase products immediately. 

Converting Your Proprietary Process

 

Taking Advantage of an Abundance of eCommerce Benefits

This helped Falconer Electronics narrow their focus and the company menu. Now they could aggressively market their “specialty dish”

Excitedly, the company added this product line to the website without producing a single item. Dozens of SKUs were placed on the website without investing in any finished products. All of the raw materials were already in stock. As customers ordered, then the product was produced. Just-in-time worked great. 

Also, narrowing the focus helped determine the keyword strategy. Effectively as well as inexpensively. 

In addition, the new eCommerce strategy created the R & D department. 

Remember, the market tells you what they want. The market lets you know if you have a good idea or a bad one. 

Once other manufacturers, industrial customers, and Fortune 500 companies started buying Ground Straps, Falconer Electronics knew they were heading in the right direction. 

The eCommerce strategy opened up a new market with little risk. They had everything in place to already produce these products. No major capital investments required. Tools, equipment, machinery, staff experience and expertise were all in place. 

Products were easily added to the website with determined prices. So this streamlined the RFQ process. 

Another wonderful benefit, no receivables. Customers, even Fortune 500 companies, purchase products with credit cards. Therefore, no accounts receivables or taking a risk of offering credit to unknown customers. 

It also created an opportunity for customers to ask for other custom sizes, which is no problem at all. 

So, what happened next? 

We decided to create a custom software tool to allow customers to configure their own Braided Ground Strap. 

Related Article: Hey Manufacturer, Let’s Scale Your Proprietary Process with eCommerce

QuoteBuilder = Instant Quotes = Eliminating the Dreaded RFQ Process 

Once converting the proprietary process into a proprietary product line looked opportunistic a new idea presented itself. 

What if we create a software tool allowing customers to build their own customized products? Instantly. 

Something painlessly simple and fast.

Working with their eCommerce web designer, Falconer Electronics created the Instant Ground Strap QuoteBuilder (https://falconerelectronics.com/instant-ground-strap-quote/). 

This proprietary free software tool helps facilitate easy requests-for-quotes regarding its custom-made ground straps.

The Instant Ground Strap QuoteBuilder allows customers to input data regarding specific ground strap requirements and then receive an immediate quote emailed based on those customizations.

The entire five-step process is simple and often takes 60 seconds or less.

Steps include:

1) RoHS Compliance: Lead-Free RoHS) or Lead. 

 

 

 

2) Width and Length: Select widths for the braided wire, either 1/4”, 1/2” or 3/4”, then select a custom length.

 

 

3) A and B-Side Terminal Selection: Side A and B are both offered in five sizes. Simply choose the correct size needed for the job.

 

4) Terminal Orientation: Select from a range of seven pictures that clearly delineate the orientations available.

 

 

5) Quantity: The final question allows customers to pick the specific quantity needed.

 

Easy to Use

In addition, as easy as the program is to use, an instructional video is added to each step allowing customers to complete the process seamlessly in case any questions arise. 

As the customer continues each step, each spec is plugged into a Quote Summary. This allows the customer to ensure the accuracy of the configuration. 

The QuoteBuilder also creates a detailed pic with full specs of the custom created ground strap. 

After providing contact information, additional customized quotes may be added on as necessary before the process is completed. Based on the answers provided, a quote is then immediately sent to the customer’s email address. 

Excitedly, the email contains a clickable link that allows ease-of-purchase directly through the Falconer Electronics eCommerce shopping cart by simply clicking the “Place Order Now” button.   

This lends a tremendous competitive advantage due to the fact that a customer customizes, builds, and can purchase a product immediately.

Furthermore, no waiting for a price from the RFQ. Customers do not need to call to place an order. As a result, even someone at 3:30 AM can build a product and place an order. 

Above all, customers greatly value how convenient, easy, and fast this software tool works. 

“Since launching our QuoteBuilder, many customers including numerous Fortune 500 companies have utilized this helpful tool to maximize their savings and minimize the time spent seeking requests-for-quotes,” said President of Falconer Electronics, Roger Hall.

For example, Boeing, Halliburton, Pratt & Whitney, Lockheed Martin, as well as Virgin Hyperloop include just a few companies that take advantage of the Instant Ground Strap QuoteBuilder. 

A recent customer testimonial stated, “Thanks for the excellent service. The ability to easily configure and order custom ground straps are very valuable.”

Converting Your Proprietary Process with Online Marketplaces 

Lastly, Falconer Electronics then turned its attention to utilizing Online Marketplaces. 

The first stop: Amazon. 

Ground Straps went over so well, as of this writing, when you conduct a search for “Ground Straps” on Amazon, Falconer Electronics appears in the #1 organic position and frequently possesses the coveted “Amazon’s Choice” position. 

From there, Falconer Electronics added their Ground Straps to other online marketplaces such as Digi-Key, Walmart, and Zoro. 

Capturing market share on these valuable partner websites offers fantastic opportunities to connect with customers that otherwise would never discover your products. 

Related Article: Get on the Offensive to Escalate Your eCommerce Strategy

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 

So let’s stop here for a second to consider, do you see opportunities at your business apply to Scale Your Proprietary Process?

Especially since this example is strictly offered for you and your business. 

Most importantly, the goal here is to help you attack the market by combining your expertise with eCommerce to discover new profitable opportunities. 

Wrapping It Up 

Thanks for reading this post. Hopefully, you found this helpful. 

For additional information to assist you with your eCommerce journey, please click links below: 

 

 

/by