WordPress for E-commerce: Assessing Viability as a Platform

WordPress, originally a blogging tool, has evolved into a powerful website building tool capable of creating any type of eCommerce store¹. In fact, WordPress is the most popular way to make an eCommerce store, even more popular than Shopify¹. But how viable is WordPress as an eCommerce platform? Let’s delve into it.

Understanding WordPress for eCommerce

WordPress does not include any eCommerce features in its core software. However, you can add full eCommerce functionality using a plugin¹. The most popular plugin for this purpose is WooCommerce², though there are other options available¹.

WooCommerce integrates seamlessly with WordPress and includes all the WooCommerce Blocks needed to build your store with a drag-and-drop interface³. It is simple enough for novice web admins to learn how to use it³.

Advantages of Using WordPress for eCommerce

1. Customization: WordPress offers a high level of customization, allowing you to create a unique online store that reflects your brand’s identity¹.
2. Scalability: WordPress can handle everything from a small boutique to a large online store, making it a scalable solution for businesses of all sizes¹.
3. SEO-Friendly: WordPress is known for its SEO-friendly design, which can help your online store rank higher in search engine results¹.
4. Community Support: WordPress has a large and active community, which means you can find a wealth of resources and support when you need it¹.

Relevant SaaS Products for eCommerce

In addition to WordPress, there are several other SaaS products that can be useful for building and managing an online store:

1. Shopify⁴: A comprehensive eCommerce platform that allows businesses to create online stores, manage products, and handle payments.
2. BigCommerce⁵: Offers a variety of tools for managing an online store, including inventory management, payment collection, and unlimited product options.
3. Magento (now Adobe Commerce): A flexible and scalable commerce platform that allows businesses to create personalized B2B and B2C experiences.
4. Volusion (now Shift4Shop): Provides a range of eCommerce features, including inventory management, payment processing, and a variety of product options.
5. 3dcart (now Shift4Shop): Offers a range of features for building and managing an online store.

Conclusion

WordPress, with the help of plugins like WooCommerce, can be a viable platform for eCommerce. It offers a high level of customization, scalability, and community support, making it a strong contender in the eCommerce space. However, it’s important to consider your specific business needs and goals when choosing an eCommerce platform. Other SaaS products like Shopify, BigCommerce, Magento, Volusion, and 3dcart also offer robust eCommerce capabilities and may be better suited to your business needs.

Relevant links:

• E-commerce trends in 2023¹
• Social commerce in 2023²
• E-commerce in the US³
• Shopify⁴
• BigCommerce⁵
• Magento⁶
• WooCommerce⁷
• Volusion⁸